Water appearing at a sprinkler after shutdown can be brief residual drainage from the lowest head, or a valve that is continuing to pass water. The timing and location help separate the two.
Low-head drainage
When a zone shuts off, water remaining in the lateral pipe can drain through the lowest sprinkler head. The flow usually fades and stops. It is especially noticeable on sloped Temecula and Murrieta properties.
Valve seepage
If water continues steadily or returns repeatedly, the zone valve may not be sealing. Debris, a damaged diaphragm or another valve problem can allow water into the lateral line even when the controller is off.
What to observe before calling
- How long the water continues after shutdown
- Whether the leaking head is the lowest in the zone
- Whether more than one head is affected
- Whether the valve box is unusually wet
How the repair differs
Low-head drainage may be managed with a compatible check-valve solution. Continuous seepage requires testing the zone valve and related components. Replacing the sprinkler head alone will not correct a valve that continues passing water.
Schedule a diagnosis
Tell us how long the water runs and which head is affected. We can inspect the zone and recommend the appropriate repair.
Related: valve repair · sprinkler head repair
Source: Hunter’s explanation of low-head drainage and valve seepage.