Troubleshooting A Traveling Sprinkler: Why It Stopped Working

Traveling sprinklers are a convenient way to water your lawn without having to move the sprinkler manually. They are powered by water pressure and do not require any electricity or gasoline. However, there may be times when your traveling sprinkler stops working. This could be due to a variety of reasons, such as broken spray heads, clogged sprinkler heads, or issues with the water sprinkler controller. Understanding the common problems and their solutions can help you troubleshoot and get your sprinkler up and running again.

Clogged sprinkler head

Automatic sprinkler systems for residential homes use sleeves that are buried in the ground. These sleeves house the sprinkler heads, which rise when the water is turned on. Regular use of the sprinkler can cause dirt and mud to fill the sprinkler head holes, and debris can also build up in the sprinkler head screens, which are meant to keep larger pieces of dirt and debris out of the nozzle.

Mineral buildup can also be an issue if you have a lot of iron or other minerals in your water. Over time, this can cause the sprinkler to stop working altogether.

To fix a clogged sprinkler head, turn off the water supply and remove the head by unscrewing it from the base. Rinse it under running water to dislodge debris, and use a small brush or toothpick to remove any stubborn buildup. If the sprinkler head is only partially clogged, you may be able to clear the hole with a paper clip or a piece of stiff wire. For completely blocked heads, you will need to remove them from the sleeve, take them apart, soak them in water, and clean them with a wire. Finally, flush the head with running water and clear the sleeve of any debris before replacing the head.

Broken spray heads

To fix a broken spray head, you'll need to find a matching replacement. You don't necessarily have to buy the same brand, but it can help to ensure a perfect fit. If you opt for a different brand, just make sure to buy the same type and size of sprinkler head. It's also important to find a sprinkler head that matches the same spray delivery rate and pattern as your old one.

Once you have the new sprinkler head, follow these steps:

• Turn off the water supply to your sprinkler system.
• Dig out the soil around the broken sprinkler head to access it fully. Be careful not to pierce the underground water lines.
• Remove the old sprinkler head and assembly by turning it counterclockwise and then pulling it up.
• Check the riser (which connects the water pipes and the sprinkler head) for any damage. If it's damaged, purchase a replacement.
• If needed, place thread seal tape around each end of the riser to protect against leaks, then screw the new riser into place.
• Test the riser height by placing the new sprinkler head on the riser and gently screwing it in. If the height is not right, buy a new riser with a larger or smaller height.
• Twist the new sprinkler head onto the riser in a clockwise direction, being careful not to overtighten.
• Turn on the water supply to test the new sprinkler head. If it's leaking or not spraying properly, try adjusting the screw of the nozzle.
• If the new sprinkler head is spraying correctly, turn off the water, fill in the hole with soil, and turn on the sprinkler controller.

Controller stops working

If your sprinkler controller stops working, it could be due to any of the following four main problems:

• Failure to keep time
• The timer dial is not turning
• The controller won't turn in manual mode
• The controller fails to operate in auto mode

If the controller seems to be working but the sprinklers are acting erratically, there may be damage to a sprinkler line, head, or another part of the sprinkler system.

If the controller won't turn on at all and the screen is blank, check if the power is working. Most controllers have a backup battery power supply, so remove the batteries to check if the electric power source is working. After a power outage, the controller may display a blank screen, in which case it may need to be reset by pressing a small, sunken button with a long, narrow tool like a paper clip. Alternatively, unplugging the controller for 10 seconds and then plugging it back in may resolve the issue.

If the controller is set to run but is not functioning, the start time may not have been saved. In this case, turn the controller dial to set the watering times. If no time appears, enter a start time as well as starts for each program or zone. Confirm that the current day, time, and watering days are also correct.

If your sprinkler system is watering at times it shouldn't, the manual override key may have been accidentally activated. To resolve this, turn the dial to the off position for a minute or two and then set it back to run. If the problem persists, check the watering start times and delete any unwanted scheduled times.

Incorrect water pressure

If your inlet pressure is outside the range of 30-60 PSI, your travelling sprinkler may not function properly. This is because the sprinkler is powered by the force of the water from the hose, which turns a series of gears connected to an axle that slowly turns the sprinkler's wheels. If the water pressure is too low, the sprinkler system will not function correctly.

There are several reasons why your sprinkler system may have low water pressure. One common reason is a backflow preventer valve issue. If you notice limited water pressure in your sprinkler system but normal water pressure inside your home, the problem may be that your backflow preventer valves are not completely open. To fix this, simply access your backflow valves and open them completely. Most backflow preventer devices have two pipes: one horizontal and one vertical. Be sure to adjust the horizontal pipe first, followed by the vertical pipe. It is recommended to have a professional handle this process to ensure it is done correctly.

Another possible cause of low water pressure is a water line leak or break. This issue is typically caused by digging too close to a water line and accidentally breaking it. If you suspect a broken line or leak, look for depressions or abnormally wet areas on your lawn, water bubbling, or a series of sprinkler heads that aren't working correctly. In this case, it is best to call a sprinkler repair technician immediately.

Additionally, shut-off or main water valves that are not fully open can contribute to low water pressure. Ensure that both the shut-off valve and the main water valve are opened completely to maintain adequate water pressure.

Clogged or dirty sprinkler heads can also impact water pressure. When sprinkler heads are clogged or dirty, water cannot flow properly through the system. As a result, you may notice some sprinkler heads flowing properly while others are not. In this case, it is necessary to have the sprinkler heads cleaned and inspected by a professional.

Furthermore, underground issues such as tree and shrub roots infiltrating your water line can cause low water pressure. Over time, roots can wrap around or pierce your water line, resulting in decreased water pressure. To resolve this issue, it is recommended to contact a reputable service provider for assistance.

To ensure optimal performance of your travelling sprinkler, it is crucial to maintain the correct water pressure. By addressing issues related to water pressure, you can keep your sprinkler functioning effectively and efficiently.

Faulty rain sensor

Traveling sprinklers are a great way to irrigate your lawn, garden, or small farm without the hassle of lugging hoses across your yard. These innovative sprinklers use water pressure to power a simple transmission, eliminating the need for electricity. However, like any other appliance, traveling sprinklers can sometimes run into problems and stop working. One common issue is a faulty rain sensor. Here are some detailed instructions on how to troubleshoot and fix this problem:

Understanding Rain Sensors

Firstly, it's important to understand how rain sensors work. Despite their name, rain sensors do not actually "sense" rain. Instead, they are mechanical devices that open and close a circuit, acting as a switch. Rain sensors typically consist of fibrous material discs that expand like sponges when they get wet, activating the switch. This triggers the sprinkler to turn off. When the discs dry out and shrink, the switch returns to its original position, allowing watering to resume.

Troubleshooting Tips for Wired Sensors

If your traveling sprinkler has a wired rain sensor that isn't working properly, here are some steps you can take to troubleshoot the issue:

• Check the wiring: Ensure that the sensor is wired correctly. If you did not install the sensor yourself, it may be beneficial to consult a professional irrigation technician. Incorrect wiring can render the sensor useless.
• Test for continuity: Use a multimeter to test the leads at the controller. Disconnect the leads from the terminal and test for short-circuit and open-circuit readings under different moisture conditions.
• Location: Ensure that the rain sensor is installed in a location where it can actually collect rainfall. It should be unobstructed by eaves, decks, narrow breezeways, leafy trees, or even the sprinkler itself.
• Sensitivity and dry time adjustments: Most rain sensor caps have adjustment notches that correspond to the amount of rainfall needed to activate the switch. Ensure that the cap is properly aligned with the correct notch and is locked into place. Adjust the drying time settings to match your desired watering schedule.
• Debris and disc condition: Over time, debris such as bug guts, cobwebs, and leaves can collect in the sensor housing and interfere with its normal function. Twist open the cap and clean out any debris. Also, check the condition of the discs; if they are moldy or misshapen, they may need to be replaced.

Troubleshooting Tips for Wireless Sensors

Wireless rain sensors rely on a radio signal to communicate with a receiver at the controller. If this signal is obstructed, the controller may not respond to the active sensor. Here are some troubleshooting tips for wireless rain sensors:

• Signal obstruction: Ensure that the sensor and receiver are installed in a way that allows clear communication. If necessary, move the sensor or receiver to a different location to improve signal reception.
• Address code: Wireless rain sensors use an address code to prevent interference from other sensors or radio devices. Ensure that the sensor and receiver are set to the same address code.
• Battery status: Test the status of the sensor's battery. Press the quick response spindle on the dry sensor, and observe the LED light. If the LED flashes, the battery is functioning properly. If it doesn't flash, the sensor may need to be replaced.

General Maintenance

To ensure the proper functioning of your rain sensor, it is recommended to clean the sensor housing annually and replace any rain sensor over 10 years old. Additionally, check the condition of the discs regularly, as they may lose their expanding and contracting function over time.

Frequently asked questions