How Do I Get the Sprinkler Head Off to Clean It?

Switch off the lawn sprinkler system to ensure the sprinklers don't turn on while you're removing the clogged head. Most control boxes are in a shed or garage and have an easy-to-find button.

Pull the grass back from the sprinkler head with the tip of the shovel or trowel. If the head is difficult to reach, dig out a 4- to 6-inch perimeter around it. Keep the removed grass so you can replace it when you're finished. Dig down far enough to reach the threaded riser section of the sprinkler head, which is connected to the water supply line.

Turn the head counterclockwise to remove it from the supply pipe. If it sticks and doesn't turn easily by hand, wrap the threaded end with a corner of the rag and use the pliers to release the tension.

Clean the lawn sprinkler head and check it for any defects. Replace any heads that appear damaged, using new ones.

Examine the threads on both the sprinkler head and the supply pipe for dirt or damage. Wrap the pipe threads with the Teflon tape to create a more waterproof bond between the threads.

Replace the head over the pipe and carefully tighten it down. Hand-tighten the head to the pipe to avoid stripping the threads or damaging it. If it seems loose, give it a quarter-turn with the pliers.

Replace the soil and grass around the sprinkler head, but don't cover it.

Turn the lawn sprinkler system back on at the control box. Test the cleaned head to make sure it receives water and pops up easily. Also make sure it doesn't leak.