Top 5 Common Sprinkler System Problems (and How to Fix Them)

Keeping your lawn green and healthy in the Omaha area means having a reliable sprinkler system. But like any system, things can go wrong — especially after a long winter or heavy use during the summer.

At Xscapes Landscaping, we service and repair sprinkler systems all over Omaha, Gretna, Elkhorn, Bennington, and nearby areas. Here are the top five most common sprinkler issues we see — and what you can do about them.

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1. Clogged Sprinkler Heads

The Problem:

Dirt, grass clippings, and debris can clog your sprinkler heads, causing uneven spray or no spray at all.

The Fix:

Gently remove the head, rinse it under running water, and clear out any blockages. For stubborn clogs, use a thin wire or toothbrush. If the head is damaged, replace it.

Pro Tip:

Regular maintenance during the season can prevent buildup.

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2. Broken or Leaky Heads

The Problem:

Sprinkler heads can break if they get run over by a mower or freeze in the winter. You’ll often notice puddles, reduced pressure, or geysers of water.

The Fix:

Turn off the system, dig around the broken head, unscrew it, and replace it with a new one of the same type and spray pattern.

Pro Tip:

Be sure to winterize your system each fall to avoid freeze damage — we offer $65 sprinkler winterizations.

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3. Low Water Pressure

The Problem:

If your sprinkler zones are barely spraying or coverage is weak, you might have low water pressure due to valve issues, leaks, or clogged pipes.

The Fix:

Check the backflow preventer and valves for leaks or partial closures. Sometimes, the issue could be with the city’s water supply or your home's pressure regulator.

Pro Tip:

Consistent low pressure across the whole system may require professional diagnosis.

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4. Sprinkler Zones Not Turning On

The Problem:

One or more zones won’t activate, which could be due to electrical issues, faulty solenoids, or a bad controller.

The Fix:

Start by checking the timer/controller settings and fuses. Then inspect the valve solenoids. If everything looks good but still won’t run, it’s time to call in a pro.

Pro Tip:

Upgrade your controller to a smart system — we can install and program it for optimal efficiency.

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5. Uneven Coverage or Overspray

The Problem:

Dry spots or water spraying sidewalks and driveways? That’s usually caused by misaligned heads or improper spacing.

The Fix:

Adjust the spray angle and range on your sprinkler heads. In some cases, heads need to be repositioned or swapped for better models.

Pro Tip:

A system audit can catch these small problems before they become big ones.

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Don’t Let Small Sprinkler Problems Turn Into Big Repairs

Sprinkler systems are one of the best investments for your lawn — but they require care. At Xscapes Landscaping, we offer affordable sprinkler startups, repairs, upgrades, and winterizations for homes and small commercial properties across the Omaha area.

📅 Schedule your service today — we’re just a call or click away.

👉 Call or text 402-880-7269

👉 Book online at Xscapeslandscaping.com

👉 Serving Omaha, Elkhorn, Gretna, Bennington, and nearby areas