Introduction
Finding sprinkler heads that are covered by grass is an important maintenance step to ensure your irrigation system functions properly. Over time, grass and other debris can grow over or cover sprinkler heads, which can impede their performance or cause damage to your lawn and the sprinkler system itself. In this article, I will guide you through the process of locating and uncovering your hidden sprinkler heads step by step.
Locating Hidden Sprinkler Heads
Step 1: Check Your Irrigation System’s Layout
If available, refer to the layout plan of your irrigation system. This schematic should provide you with a map of where each sprinkler head is located in your yard. If you do not have a layout plan, you may be able to obtain one from the installation company or create one by noting the locations of visible sprinkler heads.
Step 2: Look for Indications on the Surface
Walk around your lawn and look for subtle indications of a sprinkler head’s location. You might notice small, circular patterns in the grass where growth is slightly different due to the sprinkler head beneath, or a slight depression in the soil. Sometimes, you can also spot an area where the grass is greener, which might indicate a leaking sprinkler head.
Step 3: Use a Metal Detector
For more advanced searches, particularly if the sprinkler heads are completely hidden or your yard is large, you may want to use a metal detector. Many sprinkler heads will have enough metal in them to be detected. Be sure to set the sensitivity according to the device’s instructions to avoid false positives from underground utilities or other metal debris.
Step 4: Probe the Ground Gently
If the general area is known but the exact location is not visible, gently probe the ground with a thin rod or screwdriver. Be careful not to use too much force to avoid damaging the sprinkler head. When you feel the probe strike an obstruction at the typical depth of a sprinkler head, investigate further by parting the grass.
Uncovering the Sprinkler Heads
Step 5: Clear Away the Grass
Once you’ve located a sprinkler head, use your hands or a small garden spade to carefully remove the grass and soil covering the head. Make sure you do this gently to avoid damaging the sprinkler head or its components.
Step 6: Trim the Surrounding Grass
Use garden shears or a small trimmer to cut back the grass surrounding the sprinkler head. This not only makes it visible, but it also prevents grass from interfering with its operation in the short term. Keep the area around the sprinkler head clear to avoid similar issues in the future.
Step 7: Check Sprinkler Head Operation
Once the sprinkler head is uncovered, turn on your irrigation system to ensure that the sprinkler head is operating correctly. Look for any signs of damage or poor performance, such as uneven spray patterns or dribbling, which could indicate a need for repair or replacement.
Step 8: Schedule Regular Maintenance
To prevent sprinkler heads from becoming covered again, it’s important to schedule regular maintenance. This includes routine monitoring of sprinkler head visibility, trimming grass around the heads, and checking for proper operation.
Conclusion
Locating and uncovering sprinkler heads that have been covered by grass is an essential part of lawn maintenance. By following these steps, you can ensure that your irrigation system continues to work effectively, keeping your lawn healthy and your water usage efficient. Regular maintenance will help prevent future issues and keep all components of your irrigation system accessible and in good working order.