Irrigation systems are vital for healthy gardens, landscapes, and farms, providing greenery and crops with the hydration they need to thrive. Sprinklers also save you time since they cover areas more efficiently than manually watering every corner. While these systems are convenient, they can be prone to leaks if left unattended. Below are a few ways to know there’s an issue with your irrigation equipment.

How to Know If Your Sprinklers Are Leaking

1. Pressure Issues

Leaks in your irrigation equipment may lead to drops in water pressure. Water seeps out of the system, and air replaces it. This decreases pressure, reducing the equipment’s overall flow. 

Inspect the streams released from the sprinkler heads. If they’re weaker than usual, there’s probably a leak in the system. This issue can also be caused by a heavy vehicle crushing underground pipes or tree roots invading the system.

2. Rising Utility Bills

A spike in your water bill is a telltale sign of a leak. The affected pipe or sprinkler head will continue releasing moisture, even when the system is off. 

As it wastes water, your bills will reflect the sudden increase. If your monthly expenses seem inflated compared to previous years, take a look at your equipment for signs of trouble.

3. Wet Pavement

Wet areas on sidewalks, walkways, patios, and other hardscapes when there hasn’t been any precipitation might mean your irrigation equipment is releasing too much water due to a leak. The system should be perfectly calibrated to water your greenery and nothing more. Letting moisture accumulate on pavement can cause the material to degrade as water seeps in and erodes it. 

Having the right irrigation equipment and ensuring it’s working well will help you enjoy healthy and vibrant greenery on your property. If you’re looking for professional maintenance, Ernst Irrigation will help. Located in St. Paul, OR, the irrigation service company provides customized designs and top-notch products for your land. Call (503) 633-1111 to schedule an appointment, or visit them online to learn more about their products.