Low water pressure in your irrigation system can quickly turn lawn care from a breeze into a frustrating chore in Waterloo, IL. When your sprinkler heads sputter, mist, or fail to reach their intended coverage area, your plants don’t get the water they need—and you’re left wondering what went wrong. Fortunately, there are several common causes for low water pressure in irrigation systems, and understanding them is the first step to solving the issue.
Clogged or Dirty Sprinkler Heads
One of the simplest and most common reasons for poor water pressure is clogged sprinkler heads. Dirt, grass clippings, and mineral deposits can accumulate over time, blocking the nozzles and restricting water flow. When a head is partially or completely blocked, it can cause uneven watering or reduce the pressure throughout the system. Regular inspection and cleaning of sprinkler heads can often restore proper flow without the need for major repairs.
Leaks in the System
Leaks in underground piping, connectors, or even valves can significantly impact pressure. A small crack or break may not be immediately visible, but it can allow water to escape before it reaches the intended zones. As a result, the rest of the system receives less pressure. Keep an eye out for soggy patches in your yard, unusually high water bills, or areas that remain wet long after the system shuts off—these can be signs of an underground leak.
Broken or Malfunctioning Valves
Each irrigation zone is controlled by a valve, and if one is partially closed, stuck, or malfunctioning, it can choke the water flow to that section. Debris inside the valve or worn internal parts can also cause it to fail to open fully. Testing and servicing each valve individually can help identify if one is responsible for the drop in pressure.
Pressure Regulator or Backflow Preventer Issues
Many systems are equipped with pressure regulators or backflow preventers to maintain safety and consistent pressure. However, if these components are damaged or incorrectly adjusted, they may restrict the amount of water entering the system. A faulty regulator may result in pressure that is too low to operate your sprinklers effectively.
Too Many Zones Running Simultaneously
Running too many irrigation zones at once can overwhelm your system’s water supply, especially if your main water line or well pump can’t handle the demand. This will cause a drop in pressure. Instead, stagger your zones to ensure that only one or two are operating at any given time.
Municipal Water Supply Problems
Sometimes the issue isn’t within your property at all. Seasonal demand, city maintenance, or even a change in municipal supply pressure can temporarily affect your irrigation system. If you’ve ruled out internal issues and your neighbors are experiencing similar problems, the source may be upstream from your Waterloo, IL home.
Give Diversified Services a call today if your irrigation system in Waterloo, IL is experiencing low water pressure.