Sprinkler & Irrigation FAQ

Find answers to common questions about sprinkler systems, repairs, backflow testing, and irrigation in Amarillo.

If you don't see your question here, call us at (806) 376-5296—we're happy to help.

HAVE ANY QUESTIONS? GIVE US A CALL

+1 (806) 376-5296

Sprinkler Installation

Why Trust Us With Your Installation

52+

YEARS OF EXPERIENCE

Leaks & Repairs

Q: My sprinkler head is leaking after I replaced it. What's wrong?

A: The most common cause is a bad seal between the head and the riser. Make sure threads are clean, use Teflon tape, and don't overtighten. If it still leaks, the riser or swing joint below may be cracked.

Q: There's water pooling in my valve box. Is that a problem?

A: Some water after a cycle is normal—it drains from the valves. But if the box stays full, you likely have a leak at a valve, fitting, or supply line. This needs diagnosis before it causes bigger problems.

Q: One zone won't turn on. What should I check?

A: First, check if the controller is sending a signal (use manual start). If the zone activates manually at the valve but not from the controller, it's likely a wiring issue or bad solenoid. If it won't turn on at all, the valve diaphragm may be stuck.

Valves & Backflow

Q: What is a double check valve and where is it?

A: A double check valve is a backflow preventer that stops irrigation water from flowing back into your drinking water. It's usually located in a valve box near where your sprinkler line connects to the main water supply—often near the house or meter.

Q: Why is my backflow preventer spraying water?

A: If it's an RPZ assembly, the relief valve opens when internal check valves fail—this is it doing its job protecting your water supply. If it's spraying continuously, one or both check valves need repair or replacement.

Q: How often should I test my backflow preventer?

A: Texas requires testing upon installation, after any repair, and annually for health hazard systems (including properties with septic). Even if not required annually, periodic testing catches problems before they become emergencies.

Controllers & Programming

Q: My controller runs but no water comes out. What's wrong?

A: Check if the main water supply is on at the backflow preventer. If water is on, the issue is likely a failed master valve, broken common wire, or problem with individual zone valves. We can diagnose which component has failed.

Q: What does the rain sensor do?

A: A rain sensor detects moisture and tells your controller to skip watering when it's raining or recently rained. This saves water and prevents overwatering. Most sensors use a hygroscopic disc that expands when wet.

Q: Should I upgrade to a smart controller?

A: If you want to adjust schedules remotely, get alerts about problems, and automatically adapt to weather, a smart Wi-Fi controller is worth it. They're especially useful if you travel or manage multiple properties.

Watering & Coverage

Q: How long should I water each zone?

A: It depends on your soil, grass type, and sprinkler heads. As a starting point: rotors typically need 30-45 minutes, spray heads need 10-15 minutes. Adjust based on results—you want about 1 inch of water per week total.

Q: What time of day should I water?

A: Early morning (4-7 AM) is best. Wind is calm, evaporation is low, and grass dries before nightfall. Watering in the evening keeps grass wet overnight, promoting fungal disease. Midday watering wastes water to evaporation.

Q: I have brown spots even though the system runs. What's wrong?

A: Common causes include: heads not rotating properly, nozzles clogged or mismatched, heads blocked by plant growth, low pressure in that zone, or root competition from nearby trees. We can do a coverage check to find the problem.

Q: My sprinkler heads are misting instead of spraying. Why?

A: Misting usually means pressure is too high. The fix is a pressure regulator at the valve or pressure-regulating heads. Misting wastes water and reduces coverage.

FEEDBACK

Hear From Our Happy Customers !

We appreciate the homeowners and businesses across Amarillo and the Texas Panhandle who trust us with sprinkler installation, sprinkler repair, and landscaping.

Amarillo Lawn Sprinkler Service came to Dumas the day after I called them. Colby “owner” removed my broken sprinkler head and replaced it in a timely manner. Very happy how quickly he repaired the sprinkler system. They were very knowledgeable and experienced on replacement. A BIG Thanks to Amarillo Lawn Sprinkler Company.”

Great service! We had a large wet area in front yard. Colby diagnosed the problem and replaced a pipe that was leaking. Everything fixed in one day and sod replaced. Friendly and timely service.

Amarillo Lawn Sprinkler has served the Texas Panhandle since 1974. Locally owned, Rain Bird Select Contractor, licensed and bonded.

Quick Links

Business Hours

Monday - Friday

09:00 AM - 08:00 PM

Saturday - sunday

Closed on weekend

(806) 376-5296