As the owner of Local Sprinkler Pros, I've seen it all when it comes to sprinkler systems. From small misalignments to full-blown disasters, there are plenty of myths floating around that could cost you time, money, and the health of your lawn. If you’re a homeowner who takes pride in your lawn, you deserve to know the truth. Let’s dive into the top sprinkler myths and set the record straight!
I wish it were that simple! A properly installed sprinkler system does make lawn care easier, but like any system with moving parts, it needs regular maintenance. Sprinkler heads can get knocked out of alignment, valves can malfunction, and underground pipes can develop leaks. Monthly inspections and seasonal tune-ups, like our Spring Sprinkler Tune-Up, ensure your system is operating efficiently and covering your lawn properly.
Drip irrigation is a great way to keep your flower beds and garden thriving while conserving water. However, these systems aren’t set-it-and-forget-it. Over time, emitters can clog due to debris or mineral buildup, tubing can crack from UV exposure, and connections can loosen. Regular check-ups ensure water is reaching your plants effectively and that you're not wasting water due to leaks or blockages.
Not even close! Mixing different types of sprinkler heads—like rotors and pop-ups—on the same zone is a recipe for uneven watering. Each type has a different precipitation rate, meaning some areas will be overwatered while others remain too dry. When designing a sprinkler system, it’s crucial to use the right type of head for each specific area to ensure consistent coverage and avoid wasted water.
Smart timers are an excellent tool for managing your watering schedule efficiently, but they won’t always detect leaks. If a valve is leaking underground, or if there's a small leak in a lateral line, your timer might not recognize the water loss. To accurately monitor for leaks, you need an additional flow sensor installed in your system. This sensor measures water usage and alerts you if there's an unusual spike.
While spring is a popular time for new installations, you don’t have to wait until then. We install systems year-round, as long as the ground isn’t frozen. In fact, fall installations can be a great idea because you’ll be ready to go once warmer weather arrives. Just remember, if you install in the colder months, you’ll need to blow out the system before the first freeze.
Every year, I hear homeowners say, "I’ve never had a problem, so I don’t need a sprinkler blowout." The truth is, skipping this crucial winterization step is a gamble. While Utah County has had mild winters in recent years, all it takes is one deep freeze to crack your pipes. The cost of repairing burst pipes far outweighs the cost of a professional blowout. Don’t take the risk—get it done before the temperatures drop!
This one has been debated for years, but the reality is that watering at night isn’t the problem—overwatering is. Lawns actually benefit from watering in the early morning or late evening because less water evaporates compared to midday watering. The key is to water deeply but infrequently and ensure your lawn has adequate drainage to prevent standing water, which can lead to fungal growth.
Rain sensors are helpful, but they aren’t perfect. They shut off your sprinklers when it’s raining, but they don’t measure how much water your lawn has already received. If your soil is already saturated, your system might resume watering too soon. For optimal results, combine a rain sensor with a moisture sensor, which measures actual soil moisture levels and adjusts watering accordingly.
More is not always better! Overwatering can suffocate your lawn’s roots, promote fungal diseases, and lead to excessive runoff that wastes water and washes away nutrients. The goal is to water deeply and less frequently so your grass develops strong roots. A good rule of thumb is about 1 to 1.5 inches of water per week, including rainfall.
I get it—YouTube makes everything look easy. While minor adjustments like unclogging a nozzle or replacing a broken head are doable, major repairs should be left to the pros. Misdiagnosing an issue or using the wrong parts can cause inefficiency, increased water bills, and even more expensive repairs down the road. Hiring a professional ensures the job is done right the first time.
Your sprinkler system is one of the most valuable tools in keeping your lawn lush and healthy, but misinformation can lead to wasted water, higher bills, and costly repairs. By staying informed and scheduling regular maintenance, you can avoid these common pitfalls and ensure your system works efficiently year-round.
At Local Sprinkler Pros, we specialize in installation, repairs, seasonal tune-ups, and winterization services across Utah County. Whether you need a small adjustment or a full system overhaul, we’re here to help. Give us a call today and let’s make sure your lawn stays in top shape—because your lawn deserves a best friend!
