We occasionally receive calls from clients that their sprinkler system will not shut off. Usually it’s one zone that will run continuously for hours if left unnoticed.
The client will say that they turned the controller to “off” and or unplugged the clock and the zone still will not shut off. Two possible causes are: 1) the valve is old and is worn out and requires replacement 2) the problem is that dirt or debris made its way into the valve and prevents the valve from closing hydraulically. This typically happens in the spring when everyone in the neighborhood opens up and turns on their sprinkler system at the same time. This creates turbulence in the water main and stirs up sediment and transports into your home. For the most part, water supplied by your water company is clean of containments however due to repairs and modification to the water supply infrastructure there is always something in the water main. Zone valves will allow most to pass through and on occasion something will block the valve from closing. We have found pebbles, glass, bolts, and other objects stuck in valves. Sometime they damage the valve and requires replacement. If you experience this problem the best thing to do is shut off the main valve to the sprinkler system and place a call for service. When we service the system we have to take apart the valve and flush the system. If it’s an older valve then we may need to replace it. If the problem keeps occurring then we may suggest installing a sediment filter on the main sprinkler branch. If you experience this problem then call the office for service at 631-423-2211 or email rainrich at irrigationspecialist@rainrich.com.
