06/01/2026
THE 5 WARNING SIGNS:
SIGN #1: BROWN SPOTS IN OTHERWISE GREEN LAWN
What it looks like: Specific dead areas while rest of lawn is healthy
The problem: Broken/clogged/stuck sprinkler heads in those zones
What's failing: Heads not popping up, clogged with debris, broken underground, or misaligned
The fix: Inspect, replace broken heads, clean clogged ones, adjust alignment
SIGN #2: WATER POOLING OR GEYSERS
What it looks like: Water shooting up like fountain, large puddles, soggy areas
The problem: Broken pipes or fittings underground
What's failing: Cracked mainline, broken lateral lines, failed fittings, broken head connections
The fix: Locate leak, excavate, replace damaged section, test system
SIGN #3: UNUSUALLY HIGH WATER BILL
What it looks like: Bill suddenly 50-200% higher with no explanation
The problem: Underground leak you can't see
What's failing: Major pipe break, valve not closing, multiple small leaks
DIY check: Turn off all water, check if meter is still spinning = leak
The fix: Professional leak detection, excavate and repair, pressure test
SIGN #4: ZONES NOT RUNNING OR SKIPPING
What it looks like: Some zones work, others never turn on, inconsistent operation
The problem: Controller or valve issues
What's failing:Controller: Corrupted programming, dead battery, electrical problems, complete failure
Valve: Stuck valve, failed solenoid, debris blocking, broken wiring
The fix: Check/reset controller, replace battery, test valves manually, clean/replace valves, check wiring
SIGN #5: HEADS SPRAYING WRONG DIRECTION
What it looks like: Water hitting street/driveway/neighbor's yard instead of your lawn
The problem: Heads knocked out of alignment
What's failing: Mower damage, someone stepped on head, freeze/thaw movement, poor installation
The fix: Adjust each head rotation, set proper spray pattern, install head guards
Don't let small problems become expensive disasters π§
Catch them early. Fix them cheap. Save your lawn π