How to Fix Low Water Pressure Sprinklers

A sprinkler that should cover 100 square feet but only covers 10 square feet because of low water pressure is a frustrating situation, and can lead to added labor in hand-watering areas to prevent brown spots or dead landscaping areas. Understanding the causes and solutions for how to fix low water pressure sprinklers is key when it comes to saving your lawn. A lush, green lawn is important for curb appeal. Your home is an investment--perhaps your biggest investment--and you want the lawn and the sprinkler system to function properly. Low water pressure in your sprinkler system can lead to lawn damage, angry neighbors, and even a warning letter from your homeowner's association, depending on where you live.

When you turn on your lawn's sprinkler system and find that one or more of the sprinkler heads are not putting out the proper amount of water, take a systematic approach to figuring out the source of the low water pressure.

First, check to make sure that low water pressure sprinkler issues aren't just a short-term issue caused by a sudden spike in demand. If one person is using the shower, another running the dishwasher, and a third doing a load of laundry, the increased demand could decrease water pressure.

Next, turn the spigot that feeds the sprinklers to full power. Run it for ten to fifteen minutes. If the water supply is clogged, this may dislodge any deposits or build-up in your system.

Be sure to remove clogs in sprinkler heads by hand using a sharp instrument, such as a small metal pick. Mineral deposits can build up on the sprinkler head and cause clogs that mimic low water pressure.

Move on to check your home's pressure regulator, a bell-shaped device located near your home's front hose connection. Increase your home's water pressure and test whether this helps with the sprinklers.

Finally, check to see if the pressure regulator is malfunctioning. If so, call a plumbing professional to have it replaced. Do not attempt to replace the pressure regulator on your own unless you are a trained pipe fitter or plumber; this could become a very expensive lesson in "DIY gone wrong," so be very careful.