Automatic sprinklers can be extremely useful when a homeowner is needing an effective option for reducing the amount of work that they must spend on their landscaping. However, these systems will need some care if they are to avoid potentially expensive and major damages.
Protect The Sprinklers Against Freezing
Freezing temperatures can be a serious problem for any type of sprinkler system due to the threat of the water freezing in response to the exposure to cold temperatures. Preventing this type of damage will require the entire sprinkler system to be completely drained. In addition to draining the sprinkler system when preparing the system for the winter, you will also need to periodically check it to ensure that water has not gotten inside the pipes that feed the sprinklers. When this occurs, the water will need to be pumped out to prevent it from freezing.
Limit The Risk Of The Sprinkler Heads Becoming Covered
The sprinkler heads becoming covered in soil can be another source of problems. When soil covers the sprinkler head, it will prevent it from being able to raise or lower. This can damage the mechanical parts of the sprinkler head while also preventing it from being able to spread water. Unfortunately, sprinklers are especially prone to suffering this problem during the winter as they may go for months without being used. Periodically, the sprinkler heads should be inspected to ensure that they are free of dirt or grass that could prevent them from functioning. This may take some time if you have an expansive sprinkler system, but it will be vital for keeping this system functional.
Check Around The Sprinkler System For Leaks
Leaks can be another issue that sprinkler systems will likely encounter at some point or another. When a sprinkler system starts to leak, it can cause substantial expenses due to the amount of water that may be wasted, and it can also lead to serious damage to the landscaping. Identifying the presence of a leak in your sprinkler system can be difficult as puddles on the surface may not form until the leak has become major. Generally, you should monitor your average water usage as a sudden spike in the amount of water that is used each month can indicate that your sprinkler system may have developed a leak. Professional sprinkler repair services will have tools for identifying the location of these leaks so that the damaged section of the piping can be patched or replaced.
For more information, contact companies like Noble Tree Service Inc.