Sprinkler FAQs for Reno

Brief drainage from a low head can be water emptying from the zone’s piping. Water that keeps flowing can indicate a valve that is passing water. A replacement head does not fix a leaking valve. Hunter explains the difference.

Not always. Watch the zone run and check whether heads are tilted, blocked, damaged, or missing the dry patch. Uneven coverage can leave dry spots while other areas are already wet. A catch-can comparison can help show the difference. UNR Extension’s lawn guidance explains how to check watering coverage.

If you know the dedicated irrigation shutoff and can reach it safely, shut off the irrigation supply and call for help. Turning the controller off may not stop water passing through a faulty valve. Avoid opening pressurized equipment or working on electrical connections.

The fault may be in that station’s programming, wiring, solenoid, valve, or water path. Describe which zone is affected and whether it fails every time or only sometimes. Testing the signal and valve response helps identify the cause before replacing parts.

A blank screen does not identify the failed part. Power supply, settings, and controller condition need to be checked. Note the make, model, and any recent power outage. Follow the manufacturer’s homeowner instructions; leave wiring and electrical testing to a qualified professional.

A compatible controller can adjust watering using weather or soil-moisture information. Correct installation, programming, and maintenance still matter. The EPA WaterSense controller guide explains the two types. Savings depend on the property and its previous watering habits.

No. Irrigation runoff, drainage, and other water sources can also leave wet areas. Note whether the patch appears while a particular zone runs and whether it stays wet between cycles. A photo and the affected zone number can help describe the problem.

Compare the affected zone with other zones and note whether the problem started suddenly. Look for visible leaks and damaged heads without digging or opening equipment. Weak spray needs diagnosis; adding more run time does not correct a damaged pipe or failed component.

Plan before freezing conditions threaten water left in the system. Timing and the right method depend on the system and current weather. Do not use a universal blowout pressure or calendar date for every property. Rain Bird recommends professional help because draining and blowouts can involve safety risks.

Check the current guidance from the water provider serving your address. TMWA customers can use its assigned-day watering resource. Provider boundaries and rules can differ. Adjust watering for the season and the landscape rather than using one fixed run time year-round.

Diagnosis, parts, access, labor, and the size of the repair affect the price. An accessible broken head is different from a buried leak or a wiring fault. Call to discuss the symptoms and confirm any diagnostic or service-call charge before arranging a visit.

Make the controller and irrigation shutoff accessible, unlock gates, secure pets, and point out known wet or dry areas. Have the controller model and affected zone numbers ready if you know them. Call to confirm availability for your address.