4 Common Sprinkler Issues in Frisco

A lush, green lawn is a point of pride for any Frisco homeowner. Your automatic sprinkler system is the unsung hero behind that beautiful landscape, working diligently to keep your grass and gardens hydrated. When issues arise, it’s reassuring to know you can rely on Frisco Sprinkler Repair—a trusted service provider dedicated to maintaining and restoring sprinkler systems. A malfunctioning system can lead to brown patches, water waste, and even property damage, making expert care essential for your yard’s health.

Understanding the most common sprinkler problems can help you spot trouble early. At Frisco Sprinkler Repair, we specialize in diagnosing and fixing the four most frequent issues in the Frisco area: failed pumps, burnt-out solenoids, winter damage, and pipe disruption from foundation shifts. Learn how to identify these problems, what you can do to prevent them, and why reaching out to our professional team is the best way to keep your system running smoothly.

Failed Pump Systems

Many properties in and around Frisco, especially those with larger lots or not connected to city water, rely on a well to supply their irrigation system. These systems use a pump to draw water and create the pressure needed to operate the sprinkler heads. When that pump fails, your entire system goes down.

How to Identify a Failed Pump

No Water at All: The most obvious sign is a complete lack of water when the system is supposed to be running.
Low Water Pressure: You might notice sprinkler heads that don’t pop up fully or water that just trickles out instead of spraying.
Pump Continuously Running: If you can hear the pump running even when the sprinklers are off, it may be struggling to build pressure, a sign of an impending failure.
Strange Noises: Grinding, clanking, or humming sounds coming from the pump motor are clear indicators of a mechanical problem.

Prevention and Professional Repair

Pump systems are complex. While you can keep the area around the pump clear of debris, most maintenance and repair tasks are best left to experts. A professional can diagnose the exact issue, whether it’s a worn-out motor, a faulty pressure switch, or a problem with the well itself. Attempting a DIY repair can be dangerous and often leads to more extensive damage. Regular professional inspections can catch pump issues before they lead to a total system breakdown, saving you time and money.

Valve Solenoid Burnout

Your sprinkler system is divided into zones, and each zone is controlled by a valve. The solenoid is a small electrical component on top of each valve that acts as a switch, taking the signal from your controller and telling the valve to open or close. When a solenoid burns out, the valve it controls is stuck.

Spotting a Burnt-Out Solenoid

A Zone Won’t Turn On: If one specific zone never activates while others work fine, a bad solenoid is a likely culprit.
A Zone Won’t Turn Off: Conversely, if a zone runs continuously and won’t shut off, the solenoid may have failed in the open position. This can lead to massive water waste and a swampy yard.
Visible Damage: Sometimes you can see physical signs of burnout, such as melted plastic or a darkened, charred appearance on the solenoid.

Causes and Solutions

Solenoid burnout is often caused by an electrical overload. This can happen due to a power surge, old or damaged wiring, or moisture getting into the electrical connections. While replacing a solenoid might seem straightforward, the underlying electrical issue must be addressed. A professional technician can safely test the wiring, identify the source of the overload, and replace the component correctly to ensure it doesn’t happen again.

Improper Winter Shutdown

Frisco winters can bring surprising freezes. Failing to properly winterize your sprinkler system is one of the most common—and costly—mistakes a homeowner can make. When water freezes inside pipes, valves, or sprinkler heads, it expands with incredible force, causing them to crack and burst.

Signs of Freeze Damage

The damage from an improper shutdown often isn’t apparent until you turn the system on in the spring.

Geysers or Puddles: Water shooting up from the ground or forming large puddles indicates a burst pipe underground.
Leaking Valves: You may see water constantly leaking from your valve box.
Broken Sprinkler Heads: Cracked casings on sprinkler heads are a clear sign of freeze damage.

The Importance of a Professional Blowout

Winterizing a sprinkler system involves more than just turning off the water. To prevent freezing, every drop of water must be removed from the lines. The only effective way to do this is with a professional “blowout,” which uses a high-volume air compressor to force all water out of the pipes, valves, and heads. This process requires specialized equipment and knowledge to avoid damaging the system with excessive air pressure. Investing in a professional winterization service is a small price to pay to avoid major repairs come springtime.

Foundation Shifts and Pipe Damage

The clay soil common in North Texas expands when wet and shrinks when dry. This constant movement can cause foundations to shift over time. As your home’s foundation moves, it can put immense stress on nearby sprinkler pipes, which are often buried just a few inches below the surface.

Identifying Pipe Disruption

Leaks Near Your Foundation: If you notice persistently wet spots or puddles near the base of your house when the sprinklers run, a pipe may be cracked.
Loss of Pressure in a Specific Zone: A broken pipe will cause a significant drop in water pressure for all the sprinkler heads in that zone.
Visible Cracks or Breaks: In some cases of severe shifting, the damaged pipe may become exposed or you may find pieces of broken PVC in your yard.

Why You Need an Expert

Repairing pipes broken by foundation movement requires precision. The repair needs to be durable enough to withstand future soil shifts. A professional will not only fix the broken pipe but also assess the surrounding area to see if rerouting the line is a better long-term solution. They can ensure the irrigation system doesn’t contribute to further foundation issues by spraying too much water close to the house.

Protect Your Investment with Professional Sprinkler Repair

Your sprinkler system is a valuable asset that adds beauty and value to your home. While some minor issues can be handled by a handy homeowner, the problems discussed here often have underlying causes that require expert diagnosis and repair. Trying to fix complex pump, electrical, or piping issues yourself can lead to further damage and higher costs down the road.

If you’re experiencing any of these common sprinkler problems, don’t wait for them to get worse. Our team of experienced technicians has the tools and expertise to handle any sprinkler repair in Frisco. Contact us today to schedule an inspection and keep your lawn looking its best all year long.