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How to fix a drip system leak

We'll locate the leak, replace emitters or repair tubing, and tell you when to call a plumber.

How-to · Home plumbing
15–30 min
What you'll need
  • Replacement emitters (match flow rate)
  • Goof plugs
  • Coupling and tubing (if splicing)

At a glance

  • Shut off the drip system at the zone valve or timer.
  • Locate the leak—emitter, punch hole, fitting, or tubing.
  • Replace a leaking or damaged emitter.
  • Repair a hole in the tubing with a goof plug or cut and splice.
  • Call a plumber if the leak is at the main line or valve.
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Get started

Choose the option that matches what you see. You can jump straight to that section.

Steps

Goal: Shut off the system, locate the leak, fix the emitter or tubing, and know when to call a plumber.

  • Shut off the drip system at the timer or zone valve.
  • Good: System is off. Proceed to Locate the leak.
  • Bad: Cannot shut off—call a plumber.

Locate the leak

Goal: Find where the water is escaping.

  • Run the zone briefly and watch for wet spots, pooling, or spraying at emitters, fittings, or tubing.
  • Good: You see the leak location. Proceed to Replace emitter or Repair tubing.
  • Bad: Cannot locate or leak is at main—call a plumber.

Replace emitter

Goal: Fix a leaking or damaged emitter.

  • Pull out or unscrew the old emitter. Install a new one of the same flow rate. Push it firmly into the punch hole.
  • Good: No drip when the zone runs.
  • Bad: Still leaks—check the punch hole; use a goof plug if the hole is damaged.

Repair tubing

Goal: Fix a hole or tear in the tubing.

  • Use a goof plug for small holes. For larger tears, cut out the section and use a coupling to splice in new tubing.
  • Good: No leak at the repair.
  • Bad: Leak is at the main—call a plumber.

When to get help

Call a plumber or irrigation specialist if:

  • The leak is at the main line.
  • The leak is at the valve.
  • You cannot locate the leak.

Verification

  • No leaks at emitters, tubing, or fittings when the zone runs.
  • Plants receive water as expected.
  • No pooling or spraying.

Reviewed by Blackbox Atlas

Frequently asked questions

Why does my drip system leak?
Common causes: a damaged or loose emitter, a hole or tear in the tubing, a loose fitting, or a failed punch. Emitters can crack with age; tubing can be punctured by tools or animals.
Can I fix a drip system leak myself?
Yes, for leaks at emitters, tubing, or lateral fittings. Shut off the system first. If the leak is at the main line or valve, call a plumber or irrigation specialist.
When should I call a plumber for a drip system leak?
Call a plumber or irrigation specialist if the leak is at the main line, the valve, or you cannot locate the leak. Large wet areas may indicate a main-line break.

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