Sprinkler system repair professionals near you

Plumbers generally focus on indoor plumbing and sewer systems. However, those who also work on sprinkler and irrigation systems may limit their work to installing a new line, or a shut-off inside the house and a backflow preventer outside. 

Many plumbers may not do repairs on an existing irrigation system because they don't want to be held responsible later if problems arise. But it doesn’t hurt to contact a plumber and ask. 

When in doubt, seek a sprinkler or irrigation service to repair your system. This might be a pro or company that solely focuses on sprinkler systems, or it might be a landscaping pro with extensive experience and knowledge around irrigation systems. Just make sure that your pro has a proven track record of successfully fixing sprinkler systems. Read their reviews, look at their portfolios, and ask to see their credentials.

The national average cost of sprinkler repair ranges from around $172 to $649,* according to Thumbtack data. Prices can vary depending on a few factors.

The more difficult it is to fix your sprinklers, the more you can expect to pay in labor and material costs. For example, replacing a sprinkler head often costs much less than replacing one your sprinkler's pipes that burst underground or a backflow preventer.

Also, some pros may charge a minimum service and/or travel fees. Always ask to see all fees in your quote before you hire someone.

Most of the time, sprinkler system repairs involve the sprinkler heads. Exposure to dirt and debris or other types of damage that cause irregular spraying might be a sign that your sprinklers need adjustments, replacements or new nozzles. 

Other common issues include: 

• Pipe leaks, which can cause soil erosion and/or pooling water. 

• Faulty wiring, which can cause many sprinkler system issues. This is usually repaired at the controller or valve connection. 

• Pressure issues, which can show up as irregular spray patterns. These are usually caused by a bad solenoid or a worn-out pressure regulator. 

Troubleshooting sprinkler system problems can be challenging, but a sprinkler and irrigation repair pro should be able to fix your problems in a jiffy.

There are a few different clues that might indicate you need sprinkler repair or maintenance services. These include:

• Grass growth patterns: Stressed plants and uneven lawn growth (where lush green patches meet dry, yellow spots) could indicate sprinkler problems. 

• Sprinkler zones operating simultaneously: This is a sign that a controller needs to be reprogrammed or repaired.

• Sprinkler heads not rotating: Stuck sprinklers usually cause uneven irrigation, yellow patches and wasted water.

• Rising water bills: Unusually high water bills might indicate an irrigation leak.

• Strange noises during operation: Whistling, hissing, banging or humming can be signs of mechanical issues.

• Water pooling around sprinkler heads: From a cracked head to a bad solenoid, water pooling is usually of something gone awry. 

• Zones not activating: This can be caused by electrical issues, faulty wiring or bad control valves.

Generally, a sprinkler's life expectancy averages around 20 years. But depending on your system’s wear and tear, individual components may give out at different times. Well-maintained sprinkler heads can last 10 to 14 years, but low-quality heads may only make it 2 or 3. Nozzles are usually replaced every two years.

Water lines, which live underground where they’re shielded from the elements, are the most durable part of the system, lasting up to 40 years. Wires, on the other hand, tend to need frequent replacements, as they are prone to corrosion and are often improperly installed. Valves can last anywhere from 10 to 15 years, and controllers have a lifespan around 5 to 10 years.

If you’re not sure how long your sprinkler system is expected to last, you can try contacting the manufacturer or asking a local irrigation professional to inspect it. 

It’s time to think about winterizing your sprinkler system when the temperatures dip. Avoid expensive repairs by winterizing before the first hard freeze — when the outdoor temperature drops to 28 degrees Fahrenheit or lower. Aim for at least a week before the first freeze is forecast.

Also, don't wait too long to schedule service because pros get very busy during the week before a hard freeze. 

You can find a sprinkler repair professional by conducting a little bit of online research. This gives you access to their ratings and customer reviews. Some customers will even submit photos of their sprinkler systems that were fixed by the pros. But before you hire a professional, contact them. Ask them questions about their expertise, tell them about your sprinkler problem and request free cost estimates.

The average cost of repairing a sprinkler system is $75 but some homeowners pay as much as $225. Expect several factors to influence the cost. The first is the minimum service rate. The type and scope of repair are the largest cost factors, with larger systems requiring more time and materials. For a more detailed cost breakdown, get several cost estimates from sprinkler system repair professionals.

Read our cost guide, “How much does a sprinkler system repair cost?”

One sprinkler zone could be malfunctioning for several reasons, although the most obvious one — a closed valve — is often the culprit. Check to see if the main system valve is closed. It’s easy to forget to turn this back on after repairs. Other causes for failed sprinkler zones are electrical issues within the valve, timer, wiring or solenoid. A common reason is a bad connection that needs to be re-soldered.

Figure out why your sprinkler has low water pressure and determine if you need to make any repairs. There could be an issue with the valve, a leak or the sprinkler heads may need cleaning. If the water pressure is low in your house as well (check your water pressure regulator), the problem may be with the municipal water supply.