Have you ever stood, garden hose in hand, staring at your wilted plants and thought, “There has to be a better way”?
Or perhaps you’ve wrestled with a faulty sprinkler head, frustration mounting as your lawn remains thirstily parched?
If so, you’re in the right place.
Today we’re exploring the ins and outs of DIY versus professional irrigation repair.
By the time you’re finished reading, you’ll know the pros, cons, and costs associated with each option, as well as when it’s best to roll up your sleeves or call in the cavalry.
Understanding Your Irrigation System: A Basic Overview
Before we jump into the pros and cons of DIY vs. professional irrigation repair, it’s beneficial to understand the basic components of your irrigation system.
Here’s a quick rundown:
Controller
This is the brain of your irrigation system. It controls the schedule, turning your sprinklers on and off as required.
Valves
These are the gatekeepers. They control the flow of water to the sprinkler heads in different zones of your yard. You can learn how to choose between manual and automatic valves for irrigation valve repair here.
Sprinkler Heads
These are the delivery guys. Depending on their design and setting, sprinkler heads deliver water to various parts of your yard.
Pipes
Think of these as the highway for your water. They carry water from the source to the sprinkler heads.
Backflow Device
This is your system’s security guard. It prevents water from your sprinkler system from flowing back into your clean water supply.
Knowing these components can help you identify problems and understand what might be required for a repair.
It’ll also make you feel more confident when discussing sprinkler system issues with a professional.
DIY vs. Professional Irrigation Repair: When Should You Attempt Repairs Yourself?
When it comes to maintaining your irrigation system, both DIY and professional services have their place.
DIY can save you money and offer a rewarding learning experience for minor fixes, while professional services provide the expertise and preventative maintenance necessary to keep your sprinkler system running smoothly for years to come.
But before you decide to take on a DIY irrigation system repair, it’s essential to assess the situation.
Simple fixes like replacing sprinkler heads, adjusting the controller settings, or fixing minor leaks might be within your DIY capabilities.
Refer to your owner’s manual, and don’t be afraid to seek online tutorials for assistance.
However, if the issue involves the entire lawn irrigation system, backflow device, sprinkler solenoid, or wire connections, it might be time to call in professional irrigation services.
Emergency Irrigation Issues: When to Call a Professional Immediately
While some irrigation issues can wait, others demand immediate professional attention.
Here are a few emergency situations when you should call a professional right away:
Major Leaks
If you spot a significant amount of water pooling in your yard or notice a sudden spike in your water bill, you might have a major leak.
This requires immediate professional attention to prevent water wastage and damage to your yard.
Electrical Issues
If you suspect an electrical problem with your controller or see sparks, don’t attempt a DIY fix!
Electricity and water are a dangerous mix. It’s best to call a professional.
Backflow Device Failure
If you suspect an issue with your backflow device, call a professional immediately.
A faulty backflow device can potentially contaminate your clean water supply.
Complete System Failure
If your entire irrigation system stops working, this could indicate a serious problem that needs a professional’s touch.
Remember, when it comes to these emergency issues, it’s always better to be safe than sorry.
Now that you know when to attempt DIY sprinkler system repairs and when to call in a professional, let’s take a closer look at the pros and cons of each repair option.
DIY Irrigation Repair: Pros and Cons
DIY Irrigation Repair Pros
Cost
DIY repairs can save you money, especially for minor fixes like replacing a sprinkler head or fixing a small water line leak.
Learning Experience
Performing your own repairs can provide a valuable learning opportunity, helping you better understand your irrigation system.
DIY Irrigation Repair Cons
Time
DIY repairs can be time-consuming, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the system.
Risk of Further Damage
Without the right knowledge and tools, you might inadvertently cause more harm than good, potentially leading to more expensive repairs down the line.
In short, if you choose the DIY route, make sure to thoroughly research and understand the task at hand before starting.
However, for larger issues, or if you’re unsure, it’s always better to call a professional to avoid causing further damage to your system.
Professional Irrigation Repair: Pros and Cons
Professional Irrigation Repair Pros
Expertise
Professionals have the skills and knowledge to efficiently diagnose and fix any issue with your system. They can also test for correct voltage readings, ensuring everything is working properly.
Preventative Maintenance
Professionals can identify potential future issues, preventing costly repairs and ensuring your lawn stays lush and healthy.
Professional Irrigation Repair Cons
Cost
Hiring a professional service can be more expensive upfront than DIY repairs.
However, keep in mind that there is a chance you could inadvertently cause more damage to your irrigation system by trying to repair it yourself and end up spending more money in the long run.
What Do Irrigation Professionals Check When They Inspect Your Irrigation System?
Irrigation Controller
Professionals will examine your controller, ensuring it’s correctly scheduled and operating properly.
Here at Simmons Landscape & Irrigation, we also adjust your irrigation timer to optimize watering based on the time of year during our inspections.
Sprinkler Heads
They’ll check each sprinkler head for damage and proper alignment, replacing them if necessary.
Leaking Pipes
They’ll inspect your entire system for leaks, broken pipes, and proper water pressure.
Here at Simmons Landscape & Irrigation, we also check for any leaks at any fittings, joints, or valves throughout the system.
Watering Zones
Professionals will evaluate your watering zones, ensuring your lawn, plants, and garden receive the right amount of water, improving the overall effectiveness of your irrigation system.
Backflow Preventer
Irrigation professionals will also take a look at your backflow preventer to ensure contaminated irrigation water isn’t flowing back into the potable water system.
Wiring
They’ll also take a look at all the wiring that connects various electricity-powered components of your irrigation system to ensure nothing has become disconnected.
Landscape (To Check For Watering Obstacles)
Finally, professionals will also check for various obstacles in your yard that could be preventing effective watering coverage. This includes rocks, plants, or trees that might be obstructing spray patterns.
How Much Do Irrigation Repairs Cost?
The cost of irrigation repairs can vary greatly depending on the severity of the problem and whether you opt for a DIY or professional solution.
Simple DIY fixes like replacing a sprinkler head might only cost $20-$50 for parts, while more complex professional repairs can run into the hundreds or even thousands of dollars.
You can view details of our irrigation assessment and repair prices here.
Contact Simmons Landscape & Irrigation For All Your Irrigation Repair Needs in Northwest Ohio
Simmons Landscape & Irrigation is here to help with all your irrigation repair needs in Northwest Ohio.
We’re committed to ensuring your lawn and garden stay healthy and vibrant. If you’re unsure about tackling an irrigation issue yourself, or if your system requires a professional’s touch, don’t hesitate to reach out to us.
Our team of seasoned professionals is equipped to handle anything from a single sprinkler head replacement to a complete system overhaul.
We prioritize our customers’ needs, ensuring that your lawn and garden always look their best. Plus, we can handle the routine maintenance of your irrigation system, freeing you from the hassle of regular checks and repairs.
Remember, the key to a healthy lawn and garden lies in an efficiently working irrigation system.
Opting for professional services ensures that your system is always up to the mark, ultimately saving you time, effort, and money in the long run.
In short, whether you should go for DIY or professional irrigation repair depends largely on the complexity of the problem, your knowledge of irrigation systems, and the time you’re willing to invest.
Simmons Landscape & Irrigation is always here to help with your irrigation repair needs in Toledo, OH, and the surrounding areas. We’re committed to providing excellent service and ensuring the health and beauty of your yard.
So, why wait? Don’t let a faulty sprinkler or a leaky pipe stand between you and the lush, green lawn of your dreams.
Fill out our contact form today or give us a call. Let Simmons Landscape & Irrigation take care of your irrigation system, so you can sit back, relax, and enjoy your stunning outdoor space.