Key Takeaways – Leaking Sprinkler Head
- Start with the head. Most leaks come from cracked or broken sprinkler heads. Kids, lawnmowers, and age all play a part. Easy fix: unscrew and replace it.
- If the sprinkler leaks while off, it’s likely the valve. Valves wear out or get clogged. Water trickling out when it shouldn’t? That’s your sign.
- Underground leaks don’t always show up near the break. Bubbling soil or soggy patches mean your lateral line or fitting is shot. Pressure loss is the giveaway.
- Not every drip is a leak. Low head drainage looks like a leak but happens when the system shuts off on a sloped lawn. Fix it with a check valve.
- A small leak adds up. You’ll see it in your water bill. You’ll see it in dead spots or swampy grass. One bad head can wreck a yard over time.
- Most head replacements are DIY. Shut the water off, dig it up, replace the head. Takes less than 30 minutes with basic tools.
- If it’s buried, call a pro. Pipe leaks and valve issues buried in the yard aren’t worth guessing at. You’ll pay more if you damage it trying to fix it blind.
Why Is My Sprinkler Head Leaking?
It’s not random. Sprinkler heads leak for a reason. It usually comes down to four things: damage, valve issues, pipe problems, or slope drainage. Here’s how to tell which one you’re dealing with.
Damaged or Cracked Sprinkler Head
If your sprinkler is spraying sideways, spitting, or leaking while off, the head is probably cracked. This happens when someone runs it over, steps on it, or it just wears out. It’s the most common issue. Luckily, it’s also the easiest to fix.
DIY Fix: Shut the water off. Unscrew the broken head. Screw in a new one. That’s it.
Leaky Valve Below the Sprinkler Head
Sprinkler keeps trickling long after the system shuts off? That’s likely a valve that won’t fully close.
Valves fail from dirt, pressure, or just age. If one head leaks nonstop, while the others don’t, that’s your red flag.
Broken Lateral Line or Fitting
This one hides underground. The grass above might bubble when the water runs, or you’ll see a soggy patch that doesn’t dry. You might also notice reduced water pressure.
Pro Tip: If the system pressure seems weak, or one zone struggles, you’ve likely got a busted pipe. Call in a pro.
Low Head Drainage (Looks Like a Leak, But Isn’t)
If you live on a slope, water drains out the lowest head after the system shuts off. That’s gravity, not a break.
Fix: Add a check valve to the low sprinkler heads to keep water from draining out.
How to Fix a Leaking Sprinkler Head (DIY Guide)
Tools Needed:
- Trowel or small shovel
- Replacement sprinkler head
- Teflon tape
Steps:
- Shut off the water supply.
- Dig carefully around the leaking head. Don’t break the pipe.
- Unscrew the old sprinkler head.
- Inspect for cracks, clogs, or broken threads.
- Flush out the pipe to clear debris.
- Wrap new threads with Teflon tape.
- Screw in the new head and test the system.
What If It’s Not the Head? Diagnosing Hidden Sprinkler Leaks
Still leaking after replacing the head? Try this:
- Run one zone at a time and watch closely.
- Look for bubbles, soggy patches, or weak pressure.
- Use a pressure gauge. A big drop usually points to a pipe leak.
- Listen for hissing or gurgling underground.
If you’re guessing, stop. Call someone who can pinpoint the leak.
Sprinkler Head Leaking While Off? [Here’s Why]
If water flows while the system’s off:
- The valve is stuck open.
- There’s no check valve on a sloped system.
- Debris is keeping the sprinkler stuck slightly open.
Preventing Sprinkler Head Leaks in the Future
- Don’t run over your sprinkler heads. Period.
- Trim the grass around them so they don’t get buried.
- Flush your system every season to remove dirt and sand.
- Upgrade to swing pipe or flex risers so they absorb impact.
FAQs About Sprinkler Head Leaks
Why is my sprinkler head leaking water after it shuts off?
Probably a valve that won’t close or a missing check valve on a slope.
Can a leaky sprinkler head increase my water bill?
Yes. Even a slow drip can waste gallons a day.
Do I need a plumber or an irrigation specialist?
Call an irrigation pro. Plumbers don’t usually touch sprinkler systems.
Is it safe to leave a leaking sprinkler head alone?
No. It wastes water, causes root rot, and ruins lawns over time.
What’s the difference between a leak and drainage?
Leaks come from damage. Drainage happens when gravity empties the line after shut-off.
Don’t Ignore a Leaking Sprinkler Head
A bad head wastes water. A bad pipe wrecks your yard. A stuck valve drains your wallet. Get ahead of it before it gets worse.
Live in Dallas or the surrounding area? Call Lawn Sense. We fix sprinkler heads, valves, and underground pipe leaks.
Lawn Sense means no nonsense.