How to Fix a Leaking Sprinkler Head
Leaking sprinkler heads waste water, create muddy spots, and damage your landscape. Learn how to diagnose and repair common leaks with our step-by-step guide.
A leaking sprinkler head is one of the most common irrigation problems homeowners face. Whether it's a constant dribble, geyser, or puddle around the head, leaks waste water and money while damaging your lawn and landscape. The good news? Many leaks are fixable with basic tools and a little know-how.
Types of Sprinkler Head Leaks
Types of Sprinkler Head Leaks Overview
Understanding what type of leak you have determines the repair approach:
1. Leaking at the Base (Around the Head)
Water pools around the sprinkler head when the zone is running. This indicates a failed seal between the head and riser, or a cracked head body.
Repair: Replace the seal/washer or the entire head if cracked.
2. Constant Dribbling or Weeping
Head continues to drip or spray weakly after the zone shuts off. Usually caused by low head drainage—water trapped in pipes drains through the lowest head.
Repair: Install check valves in heads or replace with heads that have built-in check valves.
3. Geyser or Fountain
Water shoots straight up instead of spraying in a pattern. The nozzle is missing, damaged, or not installed properly.
Repair: Install correct nozzle or replace damaged nozzle assembly.
4. Broken Riser
Water erupts from the ground next to the head. The pipe connecting the head to the lateral line (riser) is cracked or broken, often from being hit by mowers or foot traffic.
Repair: Dig up the riser and replace with a new one, using flexible swing joints to prevent future breaks.
Tools and Materials Needed
Tools and Materials Needed Overview
Before starting, gather these supplies:
- Replacement sprinkler head (same brand/model if possible)
- Replacement seals/washers
- Teflon tape or pipe thread sealant
- Adjustable wrench or channel locks
- Flat-head screwdriver
- Shovel (for riser repairs)
- Bucket or towel to catch water
Step-by-Step Repair Guide
Step-by-Step Repair Guide Overview
1Turn Off the Water
Locate your irrigation system's main shutoff valve (usually near the backflow preventer or water meter) and turn it off. If you can't find it, shut off water to the entire house at the meter.
Tip: Run the affected zone briefly to release pressure and drain water from the lines before starting repairs.
2Remove the Sprinkler Head
Grasp the head body firmly and turn counterclockwise to unscrew it from the riser. If it's stuck, use channel locks with a rag to protect the plastic. Be careful not to twist the riser pipe below.
Note: Some heads have a removable top that unscrews separately from the base. Check your head type before removing.
3Inspect the Head and Riser
Examine the removed head for cracks, damaged threads, or worn seals. Check the riser threads for damage. Look for:
- Cracks in the plastic body
- Worn or missing rubber seal/washer at the base
- Damaged or cross-threaded connections
- Broken riser pipe
Decision point: If only the seal is bad, replace it. If the head body is cracked or threads are damaged, replace the entire head.
4Replace the Seal or Head
If replacing just the seal:
- Remove the old seal from the base of the head
- Install the new seal, ensuring it sits flat in the groove
- Apply Teflon tape to the riser threads (2-3 wraps clockwise)
- Screw the head back onto the riser hand-tight, then 1/4 turn more with a wrench
If replacing the entire head:
- Clean the riser threads with a rag
- Apply Teflon tape to the riser threads
- Screw the new head onto the riser, matching the same depth as the old head
- Adjust the spray pattern and distance according to manufacturer instructions
5Test for Leaks
Turn the water back on and run the zone. Watch the repaired head closely for leaks around the base. Check that:
- No water pools around the head
- Spray pattern is correct
- Head pops up and retracts properly
- No dribbling after the zone shuts off
If leaking persists, turn off water and check that the seal is seated correctly and threads are tight.
Repairing a Broken Riser
Repairing a Broken Riser Overview
If the leak is from a broken riser pipe rather than the head itself, follow these steps:
- Dig carefully around the head to expose the riser and lateral line connection (usually 6-12 inches deep)
- Cut out the damaged section of riser using PVC cutters or a hacksaw
- Install a swing joint (flexible elbow fittings) to connect the lateral line to the head—this prevents future breaks from impacts
- Use PVC primer and cement on all connections if using PVC pipe, or tighten compression fittings if using poly pipe
- Backfill carefully and test the zone before fully covering
Preventing Future Leaks
Preventing Future Leaks Overview
- Install swing joints: Flexible connections absorb impacts from mowers and foot traffic
- Use quality heads: Invest in pressure-compensating heads with built-in check valves
- Mark head locations: Use flags or markers to prevent accidental damage during yard work
- Inspect regularly: Walk your zones monthly to catch small leaks before they become major problems
- Adjust mower height: Keep mower blades high enough to avoid hitting pop-up heads
When to Call a Professional
When to Call a Professional Overview
While many sprinkler head leaks are DIY-friendly, some situations require professional help:
- Multiple heads leaking on the same zone (indicates pressure or valve problems)
- Leaks from underground lateral lines
- Recurring leaks despite repairs
- Need to locate buried pipes or valves
- System redesign needed for proper coverage
Professional Sprinkler Repair in Phoenix Metro
Arizona Irrigation Repair has fixed thousands of leaking sprinkler heads across the Valley. We carry all major brands and can repair or replace any head on the spot—no return trips needed.
- 29+ years of irrigation repair experience
- Fully stocked service trucks
- Licensed, insured, and family-owned
- Same-day service available
Need Help Fixing a Leak?
Need Help Fixing a Leak? Overview
Don't waste water and money on leaking sprinkler heads. We fix them fast—usually same-day.