Automated sprinkler systems keep your yard irrigated and save a lot of time and hassle — but they’re also complex and made up of many components. You may want to get more familiar with your sprinkler system because something went wrong, and you’re hoping to do some troubleshooting that may lead to an easy fix, or you may also simply want to get to know your sprinkler system a little better. In either case, the check valve that your sprinkler system is equipped with is one of its most vital components. But, what is a check valve?
What’s a Check Valve for a Sprinkler System?
What’s the Purpose of a Check Valve?
Many commercial and residential sprinkler systems are equipped with a check valve, although some systems only have backflow preventers. These valves can be installed individually or in groups. Besides ensuring your sprinkler system works well, check valves also give users more control over the flow of water.
Your sprinkler system’s check valve is located between the sprinkler head and your water supply. Like all one-way valves, this check valve is designed to allow flow from one direction, while blocking water from heading in the opposite direction.
In short, check valves exist to prevent backflow — or to stop potentially dirty or contaminated water from heading back to your potable water supply, whether your sprinkler system is turned on or off. Check valves work to ensure that the sprinkler system turns off when the water pressure fluctuates or the direction of the flow of water is changed, preventing damage to your irrigation system.
A sprinkler system’s check valves can also be adjusted. This allows users to regulate the amount of water that can flow out of the sprinkler system, sometimes resulting in significant savings while still providing sufficient irrigation.
What Can Go Wrong with Check Valves?
A sprinkler system’s check valves can be affected by a number of different problems. Let’s take a look at the five most common issues with check valves and sprinkler systems:
1. The valve won’t turn on
This may be caused by lacking water supply, a faulty timer, or a broken sprinkler solenoid. The valve may also manually have been turned off, in which case it simply needs to be opened.
2. The valve won’t turn off
In this case, disconnected wires are usually the culprit. The valve may also need to be cleaned.
3. A valve is leaking
This is usually caused by a damaged diaphragm.
4. The sprinkler’s spray isn’t sufficient
Adjusting the sprinkler system settings usually fixes the problem.
5. The sprinkler’s spray is excessive
Turn the flow down if the sprinkler spray is excessive.
Contact an Omaha Sprinkler Repair Company
Have you noticed that something is wrong with your sprinkler system? Do you think the problem may be located in the check valve but you’re not sure? If so, the best thing you can do is consult a professional sprinkler repair company in your area.
You may discover that the problem is quick and easy to fix — indeed, a quick clean may be all that’s needed. However, allowing competent sprinkler system professionals to take care of sprinkler maintenance ensures you don’t have to spend time diagnosing the problem. It also means you won’t accidentally make the problem worse as you attempt to repair the fault.
Pioneer Underground Lawn Sprinklers | Omaha’s Best Commercial & Residential Sprinkler Systems
Contact Pioneer Underground Lawn Sprinklers to schedule a free estimate on a system install or to find out what you can do to make your existing system more efficient. We welcome commercial and residential clients. And remember, whether you need our services now… or later in the season, Your Healthy Lawn is Our Passion and we are only a phone call away! Call 402-934-7900 to schedule your service.
