Is Your Irrigation System Failing Your Lawn? 7 Signs It Needs a Tune-Up

A great landscape starts with the right watering system. But even a professionally installed irrigation setup can go off track without routine adjustments. At Everlast Lawns and Landscapes in Alpharetta, we often help homeowners who are dealing with dry spots, puddles, and soaring water bills—usually because their irrigation system isn’t working as efficiently as it could be. Whether you’re relying on an older sprinkler system or a newer smart controller, it’s important to know the warning signs that your setup may need attention.

1. Dry Patches or Mushy Spots in the Lawn

One of the easiest red flags to spot is inconsistent watering across your yard. You might notice some sections of turf are brown or crunchy while others are overly saturated. This could be caused by misaligned sprinkler heads, clogged nozzles, or uneven water pressure. When water isn’t reaching the entire root zone evenly, your lawn’s health and appearance will quickly decline.

2. Sprinkler Heads That Sputter, Drip, or Don’t Pop Up

Damaged or clogged sprinkler heads are another common cause of inefficient watering. Heads that sputter instead of spraying a consistent fan pattern may be blocked by dirt or have internal damage. If some sprinkler heads aren’t popping up at all, it could indicate debris in the riser or low water pressure—both of which require prompt maintenance to restore proper coverage.

3. Soaked Hardscapes Like Sidewalks or Driveways

Overspray onto patios, driveways, and walkways not only wastes water, but also creates slippery surfaces and possible damage over time. This is usually a result of sprinkler heads being out of alignment. If you’re watering more concrete than grass, your system needs adjustment.

4. Higher-Than-Normal Water Bills

A hidden leak in your irrigation system can add up to hundreds of gallons of wasted water each week. If your water bill suddenly spikes but your usage hasn’t changed, your irrigation system may be to blame. Even a small underground leak can go unnoticed until your lawn starts showing signs of overwatering—or your wallet does.

5. Water Pressure That’s Too High or Too Low

Inconsistent water pressure can lead to all kinds of irrigation inefficiencies. Low pressure can cause sprinkler heads to underperform, while high pressure can lead to misting, runoff, and wasted water. Pressure regulation devices and zone-specific tuning are often needed to keep things flowing properly. An optimal irrigation system delivers just enough water to hydrate your landscaping without overdoing it.

6. Changes in Landscape Design or Plant Needs

If you’ve recently added flower beds, new shrubs, or hardscape features like walkways or retaining walls, your irrigation system may no longer be effectively designed for your layout. Zones may need to be expanded, capped, or redirected to accommodate these changes. Even switching from turf to mulch can affect how much water a zone requires.

7. Outdated Controllers or Timers

Many older irrigation controllers simply run on fixed timers, regardless of weather or soil conditions. Today’s smart irrigation systems adjust automatically based on rainfall, temperature, and seasonal needs. If your system is running on an outdated schedule, you could be overwatering, underwatering, or both. Upgrading to a smart controller can reduce water waste by up to 30% while protecting your landscape investment.

Why Routine Irrigation Adjustments Matter

Just like a car needs a tune-up to run its best, your irrigation system needs occasional recalibration to work efficiently. Seasonal changes, ground shifting, equipment aging, and plant growth can all affect how well your system performs. Even minor misalignments can add up over time, costing you in both water and lawn health. That’s why professional irrigation inspections and adjustments are one of the smartest things you can do for your yard.

Frequently Asked Questions About Irrigation System Issues

• How often should I have my irrigation system checked? Twice per year is recommended—once in spring to prepare for peak watering season and again in fall to winterize or adjust settings.
• Can I fix sprinkler heads myself? Minor adjustments like realigning heads or removing debris can be done at home, but deeper problems like broken valves or underground leaks should be handled by a professional.
• What are the benefits of upgrading to a smart irrigation controller? Smart controllers use real-time weather data and soil sensors to automatically adjust watering schedules, saving water and improving plant health.
• What causes sprinkler heads to get stuck? It’s often due to debris, grass overgrowth, or low water pressure preventing the head from rising fully during operation.

Protect Your Lawn and Your Water Bill With Everlast Lawns and Landscapes

Your irrigation system should be doing more than just turning on—it should be working for your landscape’s unique layout and needs. At Everlast Lawns and Landscapes in Alpharetta, we offer expert irrigation inspections, repairs, and upgrades that ensure your yard stays healthy without overusing water. Whether your system needs a few adjustments or a total overhaul, we’re here to help your landscape thrive.

Contact Everlast Lawns and Landscapes today to schedule an irrigation system evaluation and get your yard back on track.wat