Patchy lawn – Over watering can cause excess water to run off the surface, allowing nutrients and oxygen to escape from the root zone. This leads to root rot and the death of grass plants. Meanwhile, under watered lawns do not get enough liquid to reach the root zone. Nutrients are not able to reach the plant fast enough, causing nutrient deficiency symptoms such as yellowing leaves and leaf drop. Under watering also leads to compacted soil which reduces oxygen levels in soil.
High water bill – Water leaks and broken pipes are the most common causes for high water bills. As a general rule, if you receive a water bill that is more than twice what it was the previous month, there is probably a leak. Check all the irrigation pipes of your system. If you find a small pond on the lawn, it may be a slow leak that can cause an increase in your water bill.
Sputtering heads – The first thing to do if a sprinkler head is sputtering is to check the flow to that head. Water needs to be able to get from the irrigation system through the head and out the holes in the top of the spray pattern. If water flow is low, check for debris on or around the bottom of the head. Sometimes debris, such as dirt and rocks, can build up in this area and prevent water from flowing out of the head in a normal manner.
