While different parts of your system may need replacing throughout its life, you can expect the average sprinkler system to last for upwards of 20 years. During that time, you'll likely need to replace your sprinkler heads around the 10-year mark if using high-quality heads.
Generally, a sprinkler system should last for 10 to 15 years if it is properly maintained. Top-quality irrigation systems can even last for 20 years without needing replacements. So, if your sprinkler system was installed just a few years ago, it likely just needs repairs.
On average, lawn sprinkler systems last around 20 years before needing replacement. The main reason lawn sprinkler systems fail is wear and tear. Over time, the components of the sprinkler system will break down.
As one of the most-used plumbing materials, PVC pipe is known for being very durable and long-lasting. In fact, PVC pipes last approximately 100 years. Of course, there are various factors that determine just how long specific PVC pipes will survive, including what it's exposed to and how it's installed.
Consistently high pressure can also cause sprinkler heads to wear out more quickly, meaning you'll have to replace them more frequently. Low pressure prevents the heads from popping up all the way (like the image to the left), resulting in poor coverage and dry, brown spots of grass.
Adding a production date on the head is actually quite common since the first sprinkler heads appeared on the market. Adding a date is also mentioned as a requirement in modern product standards like FM class 20003, 'the following shall be displayed on a non-operating part of the sprinkler: Year of manufacture…'
That way, you can eliminate the possibility of clogged sprinkler heads or trapped debris causing problems. Sprinkler systems should be cleaned at least twice a year. It's especially important to get rid of clogs before storing your system for the winter, so schedule your two cleanings for late fall and late spring.
Sprinkler heads need to be replaced if they are found to be damaged, leaking, or defective in any way during routine testing. Old sprinkler heads also require replacement. The NFPA requires the replacement of any sprinkler heads manufactured before 1920.
Most lawn sprinkler developers recommend the air blow out system to winterize an irrigation system. Forcing air through the valves, pipes and sprinkler heads completely rids the system of water. If you're a DIY'er, you'll need an air compressor that's able to put out the right air volume and pressure at the same time.
My recommendation is to bury sprinkler lines 8-12 inches. I usually try to keep a standard depth of 10" because it provides more safety if I need to do some type of ground work so I don't have to worry about hitting lines. A walk-behind rototiller generally won't go deeper than 8".
Generally speaking, the life expectancy of a sprinkler system is about 20 years, on average. As for its components taken separately, good quality heads will last you anywhere between 10 to 15 years, while inexpensive ones will only be good for 2 or 3 years.
On the other hand, watering longer but less frequently, “deep watering,” produces deep roots that mean lawns can better survive periods of drought. The ideal watering schedule is once or twice per week, for about 25 to 30 minutes each time.
But life happens and sooner or later the running sprinkler is forgotten – even overnight! Not only does this waste water, it's also tough on the water bill – and can cause irreparable lawn and plant damage. In fact, over-watering can cause just as many problems as under-watering.
Soil conditions are often much better in the fall as your lawn benefits from moderate temperatures and weather. For the perfect install, the soil needs to be soft but not too wet or too dry, making fall the perfect time of year for this kind of lawn care.
The average cost to repair your sprinkler system is $75 to $250, with most homeowners paying $200. Most sprinkler repairs involve replacing sprinkler heads at $5 to $20 per head, or replacing valves at $20 to $40 per valve, not including the cost of labor of about $75 per hour by a professional plumber.
Pressure determines how much water comes out of the sprinkler head and how far it goes. So, the sprinkler valve solenoid is a critical part of the sprinkler system. Unfortunately, they go bad frequently, often due to debris.
If your water is suddenly discolored, cloudy, tastes bad, or smells bad, it's a sure sign that something's wrong. Moreover, it could mean that a backflow preventer in your area has stopped working, and your water supply may be rife with contaminants.
Do not use lubricants on your Sprinklers. One of the worst things you can do to an impact sprinkler is put a foreign substance or lubricant on it. Whether it is silicone, Teflon, Pipe dope, or WD-40 none of these are helpful in making a sprinkler work efficiently.
Generally speaking, residential lawn sprinklers can last anywhere between 20 to 25 years depending on how well your system was installed and maintained. Your sprinklers' longevity also depends on where you live.
Regularly check your watering system for leaks, broken lines, or misdirected sprinkler heads. Taking a few minutes once a month to make sure your sprinkler and/or hoses are working correctly is a crucial step to ensuring efficient water use outdoors.
The sprinkler identification number (SIN) number is used only to verify the model, deflector style, K-Factor and thermal sensitivity of the sprinkler. The SIN does not identify the temperature rating, trim style, decorative finish and/or corrosion-resistant finish of the sprinkler.