Irrigation Systems

Irrigation problems tend to be one of three things: a zone that won't come on, a head that won't pop up or retract, or a backflow preventer that's leaking. The zone problem is almost always electrical — a solenoid, a wire connection, or the controller. The head problems are mechanical and usually fixable by digging up the head and replacing it; Rain Bird 1800 and 5000 series heads are the most common residential units and parts are easy to find. Backflow preventers are the most misunderstood component — they're required by code in most states and need annual inspection. The guides here also cover system design capacity, because undersizing is the most common reason a new system fails to water evenly.


irrigation-systems

Sprinkler Head Installation Depth for Rain Bird 1800

Discover the ideal heights and depths for installing Rain Bird 1800 pop-up heads, including guidelines for sprinkler head height above ground, Rain Bird body installation with bare soil, depth of burying sprinkler lines, and more.

Wed Jun 10 2026
irrigation-systems

What Are the Components of a Lawn Sprinkler System?

The essential components of a lawn irrigation sprinkler system include the control system, sprinkler heads, piping and valves, backflow preventer, water source with a filtration system, drainage system, and flush valves. These components work together to ensure efficient water distribution and maintain a healthy lawn.

Wed Jun 10 2026
irrigation-systems

Aqua Joe AJ-OSPR20 Review: Leaks, Durability, and Coverage

You bought it for a simple job — water the lawn without dragging a hose — but the Aqua Joe AJ-OSPR20 has a knack for creating more work than it saves. Connector leaks, shaky coverage, and plastic that gives up after a season are the recurring complaints. Here's what to expect before you crack open the box.

Wed Jun 10 2026
irrigation-systems

How to Calculate Your Sprinkler System Design Capacity

Nailing your sprinkler system's design capacity — the GPM and PSI you can actually count on — is the single most important step before buying heads or digging trenches. Here's how to measure both with a $15 pressure gauge and a 5-gallon bucket.

Wed Jun 10 2026
irrigation-systems

How to Choose the Right Spray Head Sprinkler

Choosing the wrong spray head wastes water, creates dry spots, and shortens equipment life. This guide covers every key factor — coverage area, water pressure, landscape type, and mounting style — plus an interactive tool that gives you a specific product recommendation in under 60 seconds.

Wed Jun 10 2026
irrigation-systems

How to Read Sprinkler Performance Charts

A well-designed irrigation system is essential for efficient water distribution and successful landscaping. When searching for a specific type of sprinkler or nozzle in a manufacturer's catalog, a valuable resource to aid in the selection process is the "Sprinkler Performance Chart."

Wed Jun 10 2026
irrigation-systems

How to Winterize a Sprinkler System Without a Blowout

When the fall season arrives, winterizing sprinkler systems becomes a crucial task to prevent potential damage caused by freezing temperatures. While the traditional method often involves a blowout using an air compressor, there's an alternative approach that can be just as effective.

Wed Jun 10 2026
irrigation-systems

How to Fix a Leaking Backflow Preventer (Step by Step)

Water constantly dripping from your irrigation backflow preventer? Learn the 5 most common causes, step-by-step fixes for each issue, and preventive maintenance to stop leaks permanently. Save money with DIY repairs!

Wed Jun 10 2026
plumbing

Install a Backflow Preventer: DIY Step-by-Step

When pressure drops unexpectedly — a broken main, a flushed hydrant — contaminated water can reverse into your clean supply line. A backflow preventer stops that. This guide covers picking the right device for your situation, installing it to code, and testing it before you call the job done.

Wed Jun 10 2026