Top 5 Signs Your Irrigation System Needs a Repair
Jul 24, 2025
Your irrigation system works quietly in the background to keep your lawn and landscape healthy, and it’s vital, especially in the dog days of a Michigan summer when sun is plentiful and rain is scarce. But when it starts to show signs of trouble, problems can quickly snowball into expensive damage or wasted water. In this blog we will discuss the top five signs your irrigation system needs a repair, so you can keep an eye out for little issues before they become big ones.
How To Tell If Your Irrigation System Needs a Repair
West Michigan’s changing seasons and soil conditions make it especially important to stay ahead of irrigation issues. From heavy spring rains to dry summer spells and freezing winter temperatures, the region’s climate can take a toll on underground pipes, sprinkler heads, and controllers alike. Understanding how these elements affect your system will help you be aware of any issues early and maintain peak performance year-round.
1. Unusually High Water Bills
A sudden spike in your water bill with no obvious explanation could indicate a leak somewhere in your irrigation system. Even small cracks in underground pipes or constantly dripping sprinkler heads can waste hundreds of gallons over time. If your water usage jumps unexpectedly, it’s time to inspect the system.
2. Uneven Watering or Brown Patches
If parts of your lawn are lush while others are dry or dead, your system might have clogged nozzles, misaligned sprinkler heads, or failing valves. Uneven watering is not only unsightly, it can damage plant health and lead to overcompensating with unnecessary manual watering.
3. Sputtering or Leaking Sprinkler Heads
Sprinkler heads that sputter, spray erratically, or pool water around their base may be damaged or clogged. This could be caused by lawn mower impacts, foot traffic, or buildup of debris. In colder climates like Michigan, freezing and thawing can also crack components below the surface. This is why Soak offers spring startup service–so you can begin the most enjoyable part of the year enjoying your lawn, not worrying about it.
4. Low Water Pressure
Low pressure can signal a deeper issue such as a leak, root intrusion in the pipes, or a malfunctioning backflow preventer. It also results in poor water distribution and inefficient watering cycles. If your sprinklers seem weak or barely spray, it’s worth checking the source.
5. Controller or Timer Malfunctions
Your irrigation controller is the brain of the operation. If it loses settings, doesn’t follow schedules, or doesn’t turn on zones as expected, the entire system’s efficiency is compromised. Battery backups, power surges, or outdated units can all contribute to controller failure.
Don’t Wait for Bigger Sprinkler System Problems
A lush green lawn and vibrant summer garden aren’t just a matter of curb appeal, they’re a seasonal point of pride. After long, gray winters, we live for the explosion of color and plant growth that comes with summer. From backyard flower beds to well-tended lawns, maintaining healthy landscapes is a deeply rooted tradition. That’s why keeping your irrigation system in peak shape isn’t just about saving water, it’s about making sure your lawn and garden thrive.
Ignoring any of the above signs can lead to wasted water, higher utility bills, and costly landscape damage. At Soak Irrigation, we specialize in prompt diagnostics and reliable irrigation repairs throughout the Grand Rapids and West Michigan area. If you suspect your irrigation system may need a repair, contact us today and let our team make sure your system is running smoothly and efficiently.