How to fix a leaking sprinkler head

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spelunkerd

spelunkerd

Күн бұрын

I describe a method to repair an irrigation sprinkler head that is continuously leaking. This video describes the basic anatomy of home sprinkler systems followed by a practical example.
For a more recent video describing how to troubleshoot sprinkler valve problems, watch this video:
• Troubleshooting irriga...
If you need help with the diagnosis as to whether your solenoid is bad, I recently made another video describing more details about that, here:
• How to fix an irrigati...
The commonest cause of a continuous, low volume leak in a sprinkler head is a small debris particle that is holding the diaphragm of the control valve open. The particle is too large to be flushed beyond the valve, yet so small it may be drawn back up the line when water is not flowing. Therefore it is important to flush the line after disassembling the valve, to clear the proximal line of debris. If that effort fails you will need to clean and/or replace the diaphragm or perhaps replace the solenoid. When the diaphragm is off, examine the seat for scratches and pits caused by debris binding against it.

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@spelunkerd
@spelunkerd 6 жыл бұрын
I recently did a more general review of how irrigation sprinkler valves work, and how to troubleshoot problems. Better understanding of how these valves work is always the first step to solving problems. This newer one will better show the anatomy of the valve and better explain how the solenoid commands the diaphragm to open. It's here kzfaq.info/get/bejne/oKmfqqaHubiahnk.html
@lareicemonaie
@lareicemonaie 3 жыл бұрын
I feel like I just watched Mr. Rogers So thorough, thank you so much! 👏🏾
@SethGardenswartz
@SethGardenswartz 12 жыл бұрын
Fantastic video. Really helped me understand my issue and how to address them. Hundreds of dollars saved. The quality of the presentation and your polite delivery made learning about sprinkler systems fun and interesting. Thanks!
@ajhope6535
@ajhope6535 4 жыл бұрын
Thanks for taking the time to put this out there. Great explanation and great walk through.
@gaylelunn3169
@gaylelunn3169 3 жыл бұрын
We had this exact problem you described. We thought the issue was with the sprinkler head. Turns out it was a small stone that dented the diaphragm seal. Only $16 (CDN) later, and we are so grateful - thank you. This video truly keeps on giving!
@javidabd1410
@javidabd1410 4 жыл бұрын
Thanks man, I was thinking to dig around the leaking valve, but your video shows how easy to inspect/fix the internal part of the valve without replacement and a lot of effort of digging. Many thanks!
@louismartinez8962
@louismartinez8962 6 жыл бұрын
Great video sir! I learned more about sprinkler systems watching your video than I ever could have without! Great explanation!
@spelunkerd
@spelunkerd 11 жыл бұрын
It's nice to see the occasional professional who chirps in to offer constructive advice, and I agree that debris is by far the commonest cause, (as I did emphasize in the video). As demonstrated in the video, the solenoid was fine and was not replaced.
@1Godgratefulsoul
@1Godgratefulsoul 10 жыл бұрын
This is the second time I've watch your video in the last 12 months. Your fantastic and thanks for uploading this informational video. God bless you, your family and your life in all ways.
@spelunkerd
@spelunkerd 10 жыл бұрын
Thanks, Steve!
@michaelpmusgrave
@michaelpmusgrave 5 жыл бұрын
Great job, helped me fix my leaking zone with confidence. Thanks!
@Vv-qx4sr
@Vv-qx4sr 3 жыл бұрын
This worked! Thank you, the irrigation system is mapped and the leak got fixed. We didn't even have to replace anything.
@zenartistic101
@zenartistic101 12 жыл бұрын
Thanks for this video! Solved my problem that I couldn't figured out for almost a month!!! Thanks again!
@billwebb8561
@billwebb8561 5 жыл бұрын
thanks for your time and info. Solved my sprinkler head leak and saved me money!
@vicatucd
@vicatucd 8 жыл бұрын
Thank you for this great video! Very detailed and clear to understand. Thank you!
@spelunkerd
@spelunkerd 10 жыл бұрын
I'm glad it helped, thanks for the feedback.
@paulvella2
@paulvella2 12 жыл бұрын
really great job with your video. Head and all. No joke. Your explanation and demeanor is fantastic. Thanks so much. Paul
@tonyc416
@tonyc416 3 жыл бұрын
Absolutely fantastic video and excellent presentation! Well done and thank you!
@johncartojano8288
@johncartojano8288 2 жыл бұрын
Great Video. I'll try this approach as I'm having water leak issue around 2 of my zone 4 sprinklers. Much appreciated.
@MiccoliOfficial
@MiccoliOfficial 5 жыл бұрын
I am grateful for this video. Helped me fix the problem. Thanks.
@Justiceforall1948
@Justiceforall1948 10 жыл бұрын
Excellent video! Thank you for taking the time to make the video.
@spelunkerd
@spelunkerd 11 жыл бұрын
You're welcome. If I were to do it again I might emphasize different points. But the critical details, especially the one about careful cleaning of the seat and proximal line, are there. Thank you for watching.
@prsguitars42
@prsguitars42 6 жыл бұрын
Sir...Thank You so much for posting your video. I had 2 sprinkler heads leaking and not working and found one that was damaged. I assumed incorrectly that it was causing the other head to leak/not work but I stumbled upon your video and did as you suggested. I went to the corresponding solenoid and when I opened it up, I found the diaphram was all gunked up. I thoroughly cleaned it and now I am getting good pressure to those two heads. I just have to replace the one damaged Rainbird 5000 head. You're the best!! Again, Thank You!!!!!
@spelunkerd
@spelunkerd 6 жыл бұрын
Thank you so much, you made my day! Recently I did another video (link in this video description) describing the function of the valve in more detail, and how to tell the difference between a valve problem and a solenoid problem. You figured it out with common sense, the best tool in the DIY toolbox.
@prsguitars42
@prsguitars42 6 жыл бұрын
Yup and you bet!!
@john6283a
@john6283a 12 жыл бұрын
Thank you for an excellent video! Mine are Hunter, but the principal remains the same. I too cleared some calcium out of mine in hopes it would do te trick, but alas, I'm now heading to get another diaphragm. I even in desperation swapped solenoids with its neighbor to see if that was it. Thanks again for taking the time to share!
@spelunkerd
@spelunkerd 11 жыл бұрын
Thanks for the feedback, Sam. As you know, solenoid problems are quite rare, compared to the more mundane factors like supply or seal problems. But if you understand how the solenoid works, it's a springboard for understanding the whole system.
@abelltx
@abelltx 10 жыл бұрын
Thank you sir, and I loved the professionalism in your video. This will help me quickly remedy my same issue.
@spelunkerd
@spelunkerd 10 жыл бұрын
I appreciate your reply. This video was done a few years ago on a very simple system, but the message is still very universal.
@surprise5d
@surprise5d 6 жыл бұрын
Your video has helped my husband to diagnose the reason for the sprinkler head leakage and repair it. He tried several common fixes but it continued to leak. Then he found your video and that solved our problem and saved us money. Thank you
@spelunkerd
@spelunkerd 6 жыл бұрын
You're welcome, I am glad it helped!
@Greggers96
@Greggers96 10 ай бұрын
This is a huge help.. turns out digging a hole and replacing the head wasn’t the issue 😅.. thanks
@spelunkerd
@spelunkerd 12 жыл бұрын
Thanks for the followup, John. Dave
@dgvbprovidence5337
@dgvbprovidence5337 10 жыл бұрын
Great video. Logical, systematic diagnosis and resolution. Thank you!
@spelunkerd
@spelunkerd 10 жыл бұрын
You're very welcome.
@500krp
@500krp 10 жыл бұрын
I attended a lawn irrigation seminar held by our city last weekend. They offer advice, tools and parts to repair home systems. I have a zone that ALWAYS comes on whenever I turn any other zone on. I replaced the solenoid, but the area around the valve fills with water and as in your video those sprinkler heads leak and I have nice wet area around each sprinkler head in that one zone. I bought a new diaphragm, but I checked the valve and the old one LOOKS OK, so I put it back together. What could be my problem. My low back argues with my kneeling and squatting, but as you said, I am leaking MONEY!
@spelunkerd
@spelunkerd 10 жыл бұрын
The first thing I would do is turn a different zone on, and then check to see if voltage is making it's way to the solenoid of the suspect zone. If it is, then the problem is not with that solenoid or any mechanical problem, it's electrical. Some systems come with the option to program multiple solenoids at once, so it might be worth while to check the manual and see if it's been inadvertently programmed incorrectly. The other possibility that comes to mind is accidental miswiring of your devices. Possibly, the wires that should be going directly back to ground are instead being routed through the 'bad' solenoid before reaching ground. In that case, you might see a half size voltage drop across each active solenoid. A few minutes with a DVOM will help solve that kind of problem.
@spelunkerd
@spelunkerd 12 жыл бұрын
What a kind remark! Thank you.
@myusernamewasused
@myusernamewasused 12 жыл бұрын
This was very helpful, thanks!
@spelunkerd
@spelunkerd 12 жыл бұрын
@1LRozzie Thank you, I'm glad it helped. Dave
@spelunkerd
@spelunkerd 12 жыл бұрын
Thanks for the feedback. I also did a video on the diagnostic steps to evaluate a solenoid if that may be a problem.
@spelunkerd
@spelunkerd 12 жыл бұрын
I'm glad it helped. Thank you!
@ChadwickFamilyFilms
@ChadwickFamilyFilms 11 жыл бұрын
Thanks, I'll give it a go this afternoon!
@spelunkerd
@spelunkerd 12 жыл бұрын
@wmcraver You're welcome! Here in Canada there is snow on the ground now, so all sprinkler work will wait til spring.
@spelunkerd
@spelunkerd 11 жыл бұрын
I went to a local irrigation supply store. But before you replace the diaphragm, be sure you need to. The commonest problem here is a little fragment of debris, maybe smaller than a grain of sand, that gets caught in the gap between the diaphragm and the seat. Flush the proximal line with water or air and clean it out really carefully. Look closely at the seat for scratches that might leak.
@MatticusPrime1
@MatticusPrime1 6 жыл бұрын
Very helpful video. Thank you!
@Wiskers56
@Wiskers56 10 жыл бұрын
Thanks for the Info, I have to go out and fix mine now. I wasn't sure what I was in for until I saw your video and now I'm pretty sure I can take care of it myself. :)
@spelunkerd
@spelunkerd 10 жыл бұрын
Good luck, Steve. I did another video on the electronics and solenoids as well.
@josecarbajal6647
@josecarbajal6647 4 жыл бұрын
I too made the mistake of thinking it was just the sprinkler head obviously it didn't work. I changed the diaphragm problem fixed that little $8 part saved me at least $200 from the guy. Thank you so much. :)
@spelunkerd
@spelunkerd 12 жыл бұрын
Thank you for your kind remark.
@tonealicious
@tonealicious 9 жыл бұрын
Thx for the vid. Helped me from spending a ton of money trying to figure this out...KUDOS !
@spelunkerd
@spelunkerd 9 жыл бұрын
tonealicious Thanks, man.
@warrenhill6874
@warrenhill6874 4 жыл бұрын
Wow spectacular sprinkler head hand jobs! Really gave me confidence touching my sprinkler head. Really tackled that boy! Thanks Carl!
@wanesweb
@wanesweb 3 жыл бұрын
Yes thank you very much for a good job I especially like the diagram the explanation of how the pressure works very very good have a blessed day
@JorgePille
@JorgePille 5 жыл бұрын
Very helpful, I hope this simple solution fixes the small leak in my sprinklers. Good work!
@spelunkerd
@spelunkerd 5 жыл бұрын
Thanks. Even though this video is pretty old now, it is still relevant.
@JorgePille
@JorgePille 5 жыл бұрын
@@spelunkerd still relevant!
@hondahaney6404
@hondahaney6404 11 жыл бұрын
...Same problem fixed with help from this video...Thanks
@secko13
@secko13 11 жыл бұрын
Thank you so much for the video
@tubphooj
@tubphooj 6 жыл бұрын
very informative! thx
@denro1665
@denro1665 8 жыл бұрын
Thank you so much for the info! Haven't tried it yet but I'm sure it will work.
@spelunkerd
@spelunkerd 8 жыл бұрын
+Denro1 You're welcome. These are pretty simple systems, well within the grasp of the amateur homeowner.
@helmandrade9040
@helmandrade9040 9 жыл бұрын
Wish I would have taken the time to watch your video before I purchased a new sprinkler head, assuming that was the issue. Thanks for sharing your knowledge.
@spelunkerd
@spelunkerd 9 жыл бұрын
Helm Andrade No problem, thanks for your feedback -- it will likely help others who watch this later.
@CURBECK
@CURBECK 12 жыл бұрын
Nice repair!
@garyleelarson
@garyleelarson 2 жыл бұрын
Thanks for the video! Unfortunately assumed it was the sprinkler head and replaced it only to have my money still leaking out. I knew I should have consulted KZfaq before digging up the yard. Cleaned out the valve and now I am keeping my money in my pockets.
@2000markmk
@2000markmk 10 жыл бұрын
Thank you so much, saved me alot, and fixed my leak!
@spelunkerd
@spelunkerd 10 жыл бұрын
You're welcome, I'm glad it helped, Mark.
@robinpalmer9809
@robinpalmer9809 7 жыл бұрын
great video! very informative and clear instructions. have similar problem.
@spelunkerd
@spelunkerd 7 жыл бұрын
Thank you, I'm glad it helped.
@xgarciaxjg
@xgarciaxjg 8 жыл бұрын
hey there excellent video I had the same problem I just fixed it no more leaky sprinklers thanks to your video
@spelunkerd
@spelunkerd 8 жыл бұрын
Great, thanks for the followup.
@carreteras101
@carreteras101 10 жыл бұрын
thank you for an informative video.
@spelunkerd
@spelunkerd 10 жыл бұрын
You're welcome!
@ys7son
@ys7son 10 жыл бұрын
Thank you. It will be helpful for me to fix the same problem. I purchased the sprinkler head and replaced twice, but it did not make any changes. I thought that the sprinkler head may have defect.
@TIZNOW77
@TIZNOW77 10 жыл бұрын
Thnaks for this information. I had no idea that there was pressure in the line ALL the time. I thought turning off the timer was enough. Now I know I have a bigger problem than I thought! At least now I will know how to address this.
@spelunkerd
@spelunkerd 10 жыл бұрын
Yeah, the supply line proximal to the solenoids is always charged. So a continuous leak has to be from the main, whereas a leak beyond that is often more subtle and intermittent. It's very helpful to know where all those lines are routed -- I'm surprised subcontractors don't give the homeowner a clear diagram after the system is installed. Thanks for watching!
@russellgilmore9796
@russellgilmore9796 2 жыл бұрын
Great video TY!
@spelunkerd
@spelunkerd 12 жыл бұрын
If all of that fails to detect the cause, the LEAST likely cause might be high resistance in the circuit that powers the solenoid. I've never seen that before, but if it is a cause you could find it by doing a voltage drop test for the solenoid power circuit. I show how to do voltage drop testing in my automotive starter motor diagnostic video on this channel.
@ChadwickFamilyFilms
@ChadwickFamilyFilms 11 жыл бұрын
This video seems very helpful. When you say "flush the line" to remove debris - do you mean simply turning the main water line back on inside the house to the sprinklers for a moment? I do not have an air compressor. I'm assuming once the diaphragm and spring are removed that no other parts will fly out of that valve under pressure? Also, does home depot sell replacement diaphragms too if I need to go that route? or is just specialty irrigation shops?
@francoislombard2698
@francoislombard2698 6 жыл бұрын
Thx for this video, was able to repair a solenoid leak myself, saving much $$$ by not getting a contractor in.
@spelunkerd
@spelunkerd 6 жыл бұрын
Thanks for the feedback, its that time of year again, ha ha.
@mrjoehimself
@mrjoehimself 8 жыл бұрын
Thank you for the wonderful video sir, I was having the same problem and followed your steps. I have old valves also, Toro 53381 model. No stores in my city carry that exact valve any more, but I bought a modern Toro valve with equivalent solenoid, o-ring and diaphragm (according to the salesman at a professional contracting store). I replaced all three of those, really the only part that I didn't replace was the fixed in lower part of the valve. It still doesn't close all the way, I still have drainage when the zone is supposed to be off. If I manually screw in the large knob all the way, it does shut completely and the drainage stops. However, it never electronically shuts off completely. The same problem is present even with new solenoid, o-ring and diaphragm. Is there anything I can do before digging up all of the valves and replacing them? I don't mind doing that, they are approximately 25 years old...but I'd rather avoid it if a few parts is all that needs replacing. Thank you again for all of the wonderful videos!
@spelunkerd
@spelunkerd 8 жыл бұрын
+Joseph “Mr. Joe Himself” J This message got put into a spam folder by youtube, I found it today. Yeah, it sounds like your valve doesn't play nice with the housing. Maybe the housing is out of round, not sealing correctly. If properly flushing upstream debris doesn't help, I'd think of replacing the whole thing. But try a few times to get debris from the upstream line, it can be very hard to detect.
@scottrose5647
@scottrose5647 3 жыл бұрын
Awesome! Thank you!
@spelunkerd
@spelunkerd 12 жыл бұрын
Yes, good idea. I would invest in a medium size air compressor so that you can blow out your sprinkler system every year. Within a few years that compressor will pay for itself. Make sure you get at least a medium size tank, since smaller compressors aren't so versatile. Thanks for your comment!
@spelunkerd
@spelunkerd 12 жыл бұрын
I'm glad you found it -- with Google, that is often the biggest problem. Thanks for your feedback.
@JacanaProductions
@JacanaProductions 12 жыл бұрын
Excellent video, thanks. Question: I have a fancy back flow, brass flush out valve, how come your's looks a lot simpler and probably much cheaper. I'm in Colorado so perhaps that's why it's brass?
@spelunkerd
@spelunkerd 12 жыл бұрын
I don't remember the brand, and we have since moved. But you should likely be able to do this without any new parts -- it's probably just debris in the proximal line that needs to be flushed out either with water or air.
@doomking11
@doomking11 12 жыл бұрын
Excellent explanation!! Well Done! I have the identical problem with the identical valve brand. Do you happen to know the valve brand name as well as where I can find online the part that you just replaced? Thanks for all your help
@spelunkerd
@spelunkerd 12 жыл бұрын
Sounds like yours is better. My new house has backflow protectors, but the old one didn't need them.
@john6283a
@john6283a 12 жыл бұрын
When I initially cleaned the gunk out of the valve, I completely removed it to the sink with hot water and brushes, I then partially opened the main to wash anything out. The culprit was indeed the diaphragm, the seal had sat for too long on a pebble or something that made a pretty permanent dent in the rubber seal. A new one later, and my swamp is drying up! :)
@Chesterton7
@Chesterton7 6 жыл бұрын
Thanks for your very helpful videos. Question: How do you know which solenoid controls which zone of sprinklers?
@spelunkerd
@spelunkerd 6 жыл бұрын
The best way is to turn each one on using the master controller and see which areas of the lawn get wet. I do it with a clip board, making a diagram of the lawn, and I label each solenoid with the number that the master controller uses, so when I come back next year I don't have to do it all over again. There are usually three heads for each solenoid, or more if the heads are small. File the results so you can find them next year. The heads that aren't working are hardest to find, so it is best to do this at a time when everything is working.
@spelunkerd
@spelunkerd 12 жыл бұрын
I hear you say that ALL the sprinkler heads leak. In the fall, after blowout, I manually open all the sprinkler heads so they don't retain water. It would be a disaster to freeze water in those pipes. To prevent that, when the system is not used I twist open all the valves. In the spring I close them all before waking the system up. So, I would go out and twist the tops of the sprinkler heads clockwise to be sure they are all manually seated properly. I would not assume a sneaky practice.
@erwinm5577
@erwinm5577 3 жыл бұрын
Thanks for that video. Very informative and helpful to know in case I have to do this in the future. You mentioned that if you replaced the diaphragm and it’s still leaking that you will have to replace the solenoid. You didn’t go that far since the leak was fixed after replacing the diaphragm. So first check any debris that may be on or around diaphragm. Then, if still leaking replace the diaphragm. Finally, if leaking still then replace the solenoid. Does that sound about right?
@spelunkerd
@spelunkerd 3 жыл бұрын
A solenoid diagnosis is very different. The logical approach would be to decide whether the problem is electrical (solenoid diagnosis) or mechanical (diaphragm or valve). You should be able to decide whether the solenoid is a problem, as follows. If it won't open with electrical control but it will open when you turn the valve counterclockwise, then you have either a solenoid or a wiring/controller problem. If it won't open when you turn the valve counterclockwise, and the water is on, then the problem is the valve, diaphragm, or water supply. So, any thought of a solenoid problem drops to the bottom of the list if the valve won't open manually. I did a followup video called 'sprinkler troubleshooting' that explains valve problems much better than in this video. Once you understand how these things work, you won't need a flow sheet because diagnosis will become very simple.
@erwinm5577
@erwinm5577 3 жыл бұрын
@@spelunkerd thank you so much for that detailed explanation. I think I understand. I’ll refer to the video if I forget.
@typhulike787
@typhulike787 2 жыл бұрын
Super help
@SwampyFox
@SwampyFox 10 жыл бұрын
Excellent!
@spelunkerd
@spelunkerd 10 жыл бұрын
Thanks!
@geojor
@geojor 9 жыл бұрын
thanks...
@ronalehman
@ronalehman 10 жыл бұрын
nice video, try using freeze-tolerant ballvalves How to replace ball valve
@naturenae
@naturenae 3 жыл бұрын
thanks!
@jamesfrazier1912
@jamesfrazier1912 10 жыл бұрын
Thanks for the info, it help me locate and fix the problem, found a small nail in one of the head, still don't know how that there, but everything is working fine now thanks again for the info james
@spelunkerd
@spelunkerd 10 жыл бұрын
Great, I'm glad it helped.
@abidiyanath
@abidiyanath 11 жыл бұрын
Where did you buy your rubber valve seal? I have the exact sprinkler valve and cannot find the seal...
@spelunkerd
@spelunkerd 12 жыл бұрын
Commonest cause is a small piece of debris, proximal to the solenoid, holding the seal open, and returning up into the proximal arm when pressure is off. So, if you have a compressor, flush the proximal arm with air while the solenoid is removed. If that doesn't work, I would flush it with water, accepting the mess of water you might cause around the valve. If that doesn't work, look for scratches in the plastic seat that might prevent a good seal.
@mark6076
@mark6076 4 жыл бұрын
Any recommendations for “how to” clear the line of water and debris when changing out the diaphragm? You recommended using air or water to clear the line, would be very helpful to learn how you did that. Thank you!
@spelunkerd
@spelunkerd 4 жыл бұрын
It's very messy, but with the valve head removed you just turn the water back on for about 10 seconds and let the fountain spray water out the head. You can get trapped little calcified 'marbles' in the line that will be forced out. I showed a very abbreviated version of this in another (better) video I did of diagnosing valve problems.
@beejay2431
@beejay2431 10 жыл бұрын
one head on one valve is kinda un common. I have 5 or six heads on some of my zones, 22 heads in all. I would think that you really have some high pressure in those zones, because it takes some high pressure to push water thru those heads. The heads I have are spring loaded, which I would think most have. That loaded spring in the head retracts the head when the solenoid shuts down, so even with some pressure, the head must be week , not closing off even the slightest leak from the solenoid. Does that make sence? lol
@samiam6977
@samiam6977 12 жыл бұрын
the valve in the video is a "irritrol" and it's called a jar-top. you may have a local irrigation store, try Ewing or John Deere Landscapes.
@Ulujmf
@Ulujmf 4 жыл бұрын
Before going to the valve it maybe a good idea to check if the filter of the sprinkler is clean
@Charles-in3zt
@Charles-in3zt 7 жыл бұрын
Nice video. I took the diaphragm off inspected cleaned and replaced, sprinkler still leaks. I then replaced with another albeit used diaphragm one and it still leaks. I did flush the valve also. The zone waters fine and it is just the low point sprinkler that leaks after watering. Is the valve now a possibility as the culprit in some way?
@spelunkerd
@spelunkerd 7 жыл бұрын
The pros who work on these valves say that it's almost always debris, which is often trapped in the upper feed line by the valve. The gravel is too coarse to make it through the valve. So, with the valve disassembled you need to turn the water on and let if flush clear. You want to leave it open for a while, it will make a mess! The debris is gravel that is formed by calcium deposits from hard water. Those little bits of gravel jam the valve partially open, allowing water to pass through. After a long flush, carefully reassemble, and closely inspect the seat of the valve that the diaphragm closes against. If that fails, I suppose the seat could be damaged by gravel trapped there, or perhaps the spring is weak or the gate is twisted. If all else fails I guess you could replace the whole assembly -- I've not had to do that because of leaking, yet. Good luck!
@spelunkerd
@spelunkerd 11 жыл бұрын
This system was installed by a pro, and I am sure he faced the conflicting issue of bidding on jobs and working with narrow profit margins. Like most homeowners, I bought the house after it was built, and so I inherited a home that wasn't necessarily ideal in every way. Who doesn't. As far as generalizing about customers, you seem to use a very broad brush.
@stephenleague9934
@stephenleague9934 3 жыл бұрын
Thank you for the video. I have one sprinkler that is leaking however it's only noticeable when it's on. Why is it not leaking when it's off like in your video?
@spelunkerd
@spelunkerd 3 жыл бұрын
If it leaks when on, there is either a problem with the line distal to the valve, the connection to the sprinkler head, or the sprinkler head itself. I would dig down in the wettest area looking for a cracked line, a leaking threaded connection, or a bad valve. If water freezes in these structures, it can expand and damage the plastic, only noticed when you turn the system back on. Once you get the area exposed, turn the zone back on and see where the water is coming from.
@baldbobby
@baldbobby 8 жыл бұрын
Hi, I have the same issue . 2 weeks ago my sprinkler repair guy replaced the end of line sprinkler due to a constant low volume leak. About a week later the next valve upstream started to leak. Is this likely to be the valve problem you describe or the sprinkler head itself.? Great video by the way!
@spelunkerd
@spelunkerd 8 жыл бұрын
Sprinkler heads are always open, so they can't cause a continuous leak. Open the feeder valve for that zone, flush the line above the valve, clean and reassemble it. Most likely your problem will be solved. Good luck!
@baldbobby
@baldbobby 8 жыл бұрын
Thanks for the quick reply. Am on it right now will let you know how it goes.
@3838bbla
@3838bbla 12 жыл бұрын
do you think they tempered the system so that we could hire them back to fix? Because they have been knocking the door twice to talk to me saying they will do everything in the yard..... flowers.... trees..... watering..... fertilizering.... and he also added sprinkler in his final sentence!! THANK YOU IN advance!
@CLeeMiller
@CLeeMiller 12 жыл бұрын
I have a similar problem, but I have already replaced the entire solenoid valve and still have the same problem. Any ideas as to what could be causing it?
@jersal873
@jersal873 8 жыл бұрын
Hello there! Great video! I think you have showed me what my issue may be. I believe I have the same valve that you were working on. Where can I find the diaphragm? Any specific one or is manufacturer specific one required? Also, will this leak issue also cause your sprinkler heads to go up and down on there own while other zones are operating? Mine do this when rest of yard is being watered...and this happens to be the bad zone valve. I look forward to hearing from you. I have the repair man coming next Friday...maybe I can cancel that appointment.😉 Sal
@spelunkerd
@spelunkerd 8 жыл бұрын
+jersal873 If it's a piece of debris you may not need anything after cleaning and flushing the proximal line. Take a picture of the valve and if the seal is bad you can take it in to a local irrigation supplier. Every city will have a few. Good luck!
@jersal873
@jersal873 8 жыл бұрын
+spelunkerd hi!! Thanks again! Just finished doing what you said and that valve isn't leaking anymore. The diaphragm was gross with crud so cleaned that up as well as the housing it sits on. Tightened it up and ran that zone! Works well now! I won't cancel the repairman just yet. I'll first let it run a few days and make sure that the valve box isn't full of water like the day I found it! Thanks again! Look forward to more videos of you around the house! Regards!
@jersal873
@jersal873 8 жыл бұрын
+jersal873 by the way...I have the exact same diaphragm. Which manufacturer is this should I need to get a new 1?
@spelunkerd
@spelunkerd 8 жыл бұрын
Not sure. I would take a photo with your phone and ask the parts man at the irrigation supply house. Those guys are a source of endless favours.
@samiam6977
@samiam6977 12 жыл бұрын
having a master valve would be nice.
@spelunkerd
@spelunkerd 12 жыл бұрын
You're welcome.
@spelunkerd
@spelunkerd 11 жыл бұрын
Yes, flushing with water is the best method, by turning the water on for several seconds. Not only do you likely remove the offending particle, you also may dislodge other debris that is lined up to cause problems later. Be prepared to have water all over your work area, and try to avoid getting any dirt from the surrounding area back into the lines. Its hard to avoid causing a mess, but you might try covering adjacent dirt with a towel or tarp.
@kissfan4eternity
@kissfan4eternity 8 жыл бұрын
Hi, I just had most of my sprinklers heads replaced but thier is just one head that seems to be leaking rather than the others and has always seemed to do this in the past. Is their anyway to stop the leaking head at the top of it. The other ones on the same zone seem to be fine but one!
@spelunkerd
@spelunkerd 8 жыл бұрын
A normal sprinkler head is always open, so it will leak if water is getting to it. The reason why one head seems to leak is mostly a gravity effect, it's usually the lowest head of the zone. Check out the valve, look for debris obstructing full closure of the valve.
@3838bbla
@3838bbla 12 жыл бұрын
Could you please tell me why is it that all my sprinkler heads are all leaking? A bit of background story here.....we bought the house a month ago the front yard was in very good condition the grass couldn't be any greener because the previous owner hired the gardeners. When the gardeners asked if we would still need their service we thought we could handle it on our own. but after declining their service a few days later all sprinkler heads have been leaking for around two weeks.
@TRTuccinard
@TRTuccinard 4 жыл бұрын
What type of valve was that? Rainbird, hunter, Toro??? I need to find the diaphragm Thanks
@spelunkerd
@spelunkerd 4 жыл бұрын
The controller is Hansen, not sure about the valves but probably the same. I take a photo of the valve along with the old diaphragm, and ask the local irrigation supply company for a replacement. They store them on the shelf, no wait.
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