Question of the Week: Irrigation Woes

Q: I tried to turn on my irrigation system and water started spraying everywhere when I turned the valve. Upon inspection, I found a crack on the shutoff. What caused this? see photo

A: Ah, a common issue that homeowners encounter. The valve you mentioned is a ball valve typically found in the reduced pressure assembly. It's important to note that this valve isn't intended for shutting off your irrigation system during winter. Instead, it serves as an "emergency" shutoff in case of system failures beyond the assembly.

Here's what likely happened: when you used the ball valve as a main winter shutoff, it trapped water inside. As temperatures dropped, the trapped water froze, causing the brass to crack—resulting in the leak you discovered.

The proper shutoff valve for winterizing your irrigation system is typically a gate valve, positioned about 2-3 feet below ground level to prevent freezing. Accessing this valve usually requires a long key.

If you plan to manage your irrigation system on your own, it's crucial to understand its setup thoroughly. Consult the installer or a knowledgeable professional for guidance. Repairing this type of damage can cost a few hundred dollars, potentially less if the installer used unions for easier removal.

At Desert Rose Landscape, we offer this service for systems we've installed and properties we maintain year-round.

Feel free to reach out with any more questions or concerns you have about your irrigation system!