One zone won’t start. A head keeps dripping. The timer seems to have a mind of its own. Start with the question that sounds like your yard. These answers will help you make a few useful checks and know what to tell us when you call.
Why is one sprinkler zone not working?
Start at the controller: is the zone scheduled to run today, and does the display show an error? Then see whether the other zones work. The cause could be the settings, wiring, valve, or water supply. Our zone troubleshooting guide walks through the possibilities. You can also use Rain Bird’s repair and troubleshooting resources.
Why do two zones run together?
Check for overlapping programs first. If the schedule looks right, wiring or a valve that stays open may be involved. A controlled test can help tell them apart before you replace the timer. Read Hunter’s explanation of controller programs.
Why do sprinklers leak when they are off?
Watch how long it lasts. A low head may briefly drain water left in the pipe. A steady trickle can mean a valve isn’t sealing. A supply-line leak can keep flowing regardless of the timer. Our guide explains leaks between watering cycles. USU’s maintenance checklist covers low-head drainage, leaks and check valves.
What should I do if sprinklers will not shut off?
Turn the controller off first. If the water keeps coming, use the dedicated irrigation shutoff only if you know where it is and can operate it safely. A stuck valve can let water through even when the controller has no power. Get help with a stuck zone.
How many minutes should each zone run?
There isn’t one number of minutes that fits every zone. Spray heads, rotors, and drip emitters put down water at different rates. Check what the zone delivers, what the plants need, and how the soil absorbs it. Use the Utah weekly guide with your provider’s current restrictions before setting the schedule. See EPA WaterSense watering guidance for seasonal scheduling and cycle-and-soak tips.
Are rotary sprinklers different from pop-up sprinklers?
The names describe two different things. A pop-up rises when the water comes on. It may have a fixed spray or a rotary nozzle, and many gear-driven rotors pop up too. See the sprinkler type guide.
When does secondary water turn on or shut off?
Ask the supplier for your property. A date you hear from a neighbor in another district may not apply to your connection. Our provider and secondary-water guide helps you work out who to contact.
Does a water-provider shutdown replace winterization?
No. The supplier turning off the water doesn’t tell you whether water is still trapped in your yard’s pipes. Winterization depends on your equipment and piping. Hunter’s winterization guide explains the different drainage methods and precautions.
Can a smart timer fix dry spots?
A smart timer can help with the schedule, but it can’t mend a pipe or clear a blocked nozzle. Check coverage problems first. Use the EPA sprinkler inspection checklist to identify broken or misdirected heads.
How much does sprinkler repair cost?
It depends on what has failed and how hard it is to reach. Replacing an accessible head is a different job from finding and repairing a buried valve. Tell us what’s happening, ask about the diagnostic charge, and have us explain the work and price before you decide.
Where can I check the technical details?
Use Hunter’s valve support, Rain Bird’s winterization guidance, and USU’s irrigation resources.
Call (385) 226-5764 or text us. Tell us what you’ve noticed. We’ll discuss the next check or help you arrange a visit.
More help from Sprinkler Master
Visit the main Sprinkler Master website for service locations and the sprinkler-system overview for component explanations. You can also explore winterization FAQs from Sprinkler Master Weber County and repair information from Sprinkler Master Boise. Those teams cover their own regions. For a Salt Lake appointment, call or text our local team.