A broken sprinkler head can be a nuisance, causing your lawn to become dry and patchy. Replacing a broken sprinkler head is a relatively simple task you can do yourself with a few easy-to-follow steps.
What You’ll Need:
- a lawn sprinkler
- pliers
- a socket wrench or adjustable wrench
- Teflon tape (optional)
Where to Buy Replacement Sprinkler Heads:
While the new sprinkler head doesn’t have to be the same brand as the original one, it does have to be the same type. Sprinkler head types are typically either pop-up or impact. Additionally, when purchasing a replacement, it must match the gallons-per minute or inches-per minute of the old sprinkler head. The spray pattern and throwing distance should also match to prevent over or under-watering.
Sprinkler head specifications can usually be found on the top of the head or the side. If the label is no longer visible, find the brand and part number and look up the specifications you’ll need for the replacement head. You can buy sprinkler heads at most hardware stores or online.
Steps to Replace Your Sprinkler Head:
- Turn Off the Water to the Sprinkler Head
The first thing you’ll need to do is turn off the water supply to the sprinkler head. To do this, find your main water shutoff valve and turn it to the “off” position. Once the water is shut off, go to your broken sprinkler head and remove any debris that may be surrounding it.
2. Remove the Old Sprinkler Head
Next, use your pliers to remove the old sprinkler head from the riser pipe. Once the old sprinkler head is removed, inspect the threads on the sprinkler head and riser pipe. If there is any damage, use a die to clean the threads.
3. Set the Height of the New Head
Now it’s time to install the new sprinkler head. To do this, take your new sprinkler head and screw it onto the riser pipe. Make sure that the sprinkler head is flush with the ground and not sticking out of the grass or buried too deep. Getting the height right may take a few attempts. Once you get the proper height for the head, remove it and flush out the water line.
4. Flush Out the Water Line
Once the new sprinkler head is installed, turn on the water supply and let the water run through the line for a few minutes. This will help to clear out any debris that may be in the line. After a few minutes, turn off the water and check for leaks.
5. Installing the Sprinkler Head and Backfill
Once you’ve flushed the line and checked for leaks, it’s time to install the new sprinkler head. To do this, take your new sprinkler head and screw it onto the riser pipe. Again, ensure the sprinkler head is flush with the ground and not sticking out of the grass or buried too deep.
Once the new sprinkler head is in place, backfill the hole around it with dirt or mulch. Be sure to pack the material tightly around the base of the sprinkler head to prevent it from wobbling or moving.
6. Test the Sprinkler Head
After you’ve installed the new sprinkler head and backfilled the hole, turn on the water supply and test the sprinkler head to make sure it’s working correctly. To do this, walk around the perimeter of your lawn and look for areas not being watered. If you see any dry spots, adjust the sprinkler head until the water is evenly distributed.
Conclusion:
Replacing a broken sprinkler head is a relatively simple task you can do yourself with a few easy-to-follow steps. Just make sure to turn off the water supply, remove the old sprinkler head, set the height of the new head, flush out the water line, install the new sprinkler head, and backfill the hole. Once you’ve done all this, turn on the water and test the sprinkler head to ensure it’s working correctly. With a little effort, you can have your lawn looking green and healthy in no time!
Source:
