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There are several possible causes when it comes to weak sprinkler spray. Sometimes only one sprinkler head is affected, while in other cases multiple emitters may suffer from weak spray. Finding the cause requires a bit of troubleshooting.
1. Engaged Backflow Preventer
The backflow preventer is fully engaged when the system is winterized so that moisture doesn't get into the lines during the off-season. If you notice weak spray during the first irrigation of spring or early summer, then the backflow preventer valves may still be partially engaged. Turning the handles to open them completely should solve the problem.
2. Broken Supply Line
If the weak spray occurs suddenly, then a broken supply line may be the culprit. A break in the line means little to no water will make it to the emitters downstream from the leak, so multiple sprinklers may have a weak or nonexistent spray. You may also discover that some of the ground is soggy and marshy thanks to the underground water leak. Prompt repair is needed to avoid high water bills and lawn damage.
3. Clogged Sprinkler Emitter
Pop-up sprinkler heads are the most likely type to suffer clogs, although debris and hard water deposits will occasionally clog other styles of emitters. Water won't be able to spray out of the clogged head, or it may spray out in a sputtering, weak flow. The blockage can also result in increased high-pressure flow from the next sprinkler that is on the same water line.
4. Weak Water Pressure
A lack of water pressure in the line can lead to a weak spray or to complete failure of the emitter to pop up fully. Causes of water pressure loss include clogged water lines, failure of a pressure regulation valve on the water supply, or small leaks in the line. If all of the sprinkler emitters on the line are affected, the problem could be with the municipal water supply, or the water shutoff valve may be partially engaged.
5. Wrong Emitter Choice
The emitters on the system are typically designed to provide a finite level of coverage. If lower coverage emitters are installed, they simply won't spray as far as you need them to. This isn't necessarily a low-pressure problem, but it's often confused for one. Your sprinkler service can assess the problem emitters and replace them with ones that feature a large spray coverage pattern.
Contact a sprinkler service to learn more.
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