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Fix a sprinkler that leaks

We'll identify low head drain vs. a real leak, replace cracked heads, and tell you when to call a plumber.

Troubleshooting · Home plumbing
10–25 min
What you'll need
  • Replacement sprinkler head (if needed)
  • Thread sealant (if needed)
  • Shovel
Step 1 of 4

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Steps

Goal: Identify low head drain vs. a real leak, and fix cracked heads or connections.

  • If water stops within a few minutes of the zone turning off, it is low head drain—normal.
  • If the head is cracked, replace it. If the connection leaks, tighten or reseal.
  • Good: Leak fixed. Bad: Constant flow when zone off—call a plumber.

Replace head

Goal: Fix a cracked or broken head.

  • Shut off the water. Unscrew the head. Install a new one that matches the flow rate.
  • Good: No more drip. Bad: Call a plumber.

When to get help

Call a plumber or irrigation specialist if:

  • Water runs constantly when the zone is off (valve not closing).
  • The leak is at the main line or valve.

Verification

  • No constant drip or flow when the zone is off (low head drain is OK).
  • Head and connections are dry when the zone is off.

Escalation ladder

Work from the device outward. Stop when the problem is fixed.

  1. Identify leak type Low head drain stops in minutes—normal. Constant leak—problem.
  2. Replace cracked head Replace the head if it is cracked.
  3. Tighten connections Snug the head and riser; use thread sealant if needed.
  4. Call a plumber Constant leak when zone off (valve issue) or leak at main—call a plumber.

What to capture if you need help

Before calling support or posting for help, have these ready. It speeds everything up.

  • Low head drain or constant leak?
  • Head condition
  • Connection condition
  • Steps already tried

Does the water stop within a few minutes of the zone turning off?

Low head drain stops when the pipe empties. A real leak continues.

Turn off the zone. Watch the head. Stops in minutes: low head drain—normal, no fix needed. Runs constantly: zone valve may not be closing—call a plumber. Drips from head: cracked head—replace.

Yes (low head drain) No (constant)

You can change your answer later.

Low head drain — normal

Low head drain is normal. Water drains from the lowest head when the zone turns off. No fix needed.

Done

Is the head cracked or is the leak at the connection?

Cracked head or loose connection can cause drips.

Inspect the head. Cracked: replace the head. Leak at connection: tighten or apply thread sealant. Water runs (not drips) when zone off: valve not closing—call a plumber.

Yes No

You can change your answer later.

Call a plumber

Call a plumber or irrigation specialist if: water runs constantly when the zone is off (valve not closing), or the leak is at the main line or valve. Low head drain does not need a plumber.

Done

Reviewed by Blackbox Atlas

Frequently asked questions

Why would a sprinkler leak?
Common causes: low head drain (water draining from the lowest head when the zone turns off—normal), a cracked or broken head, a loose connection, or a zone valve that does not close fully. Low head drain is not a leak—it is water draining from the pipes.
Can I fix a sprinkler leak myself?
Yes. You can replace a cracked head and tighten or reseal connections. Low head drain does not need fixing—it stops when the pipe is empty. If the zone valve does not close, call a plumber.
When should I call a plumber for a sprinkler leak?
Call a plumber or irrigation specialist if: water runs constantly from a head (zone valve not closing), the leak is at the main line or valve, or you cannot stop the leak by replacing the head. Low head drain is normal and does not need a plumber.

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