My Sprinkler Pressure is Surging

Water Appliances

• Appliances that use water, such as washing machines or dishwashers, can siphon off water pressure from the rest of the system. These devices often fill with large volumes of water, which can reduce water pressure to sprinklers during the fill phases. Running your sprinklers at times when these appliances are not operating can improve the water pressure. Running the hose at the same time as your sprinklers can also cause surges in water pressure.

Broken Pipes

• Broken pipes can lead to water surging. As water escapes from cracks or holes, it can reduce the overall amount of pressure that flows to the rest of the system. A pipe that is broken underground can leak water undetected, but water that pools on the surface with no sprinklers nearby can be an indication of a broken pipe. Broken pipes can often be repaired using a pipe clamp or repair wrap that seals the area of the leak.

Construction

• New construction in the area around your water service area is a common cause of surging or decreased water pressure. New construction often requires large volumes of water for keeping dust levels low in the construction area. This process can reduce the amount of water pressure that's available to homes on the same water supply line, or it can cause your water to surge as the construction area turns the flow of water from hydrants on and off. Watering your lawn during non-work hours can reduce the chance of surging water pressure.

Water Pressure Regulator

• All homes have water pressure regulators built into the main water line. These bell-shaped devices maintain water pressure at preset levels between 50 and 70 psi. If you have surging water pressure at the sprinklers, it may be a sign of a malfunctioning regulator. Pressure regulators can be changed by cutting out the old regulator and soldering in place a new unit. Adjust your regulator to various levels to see if it makes a noticeable difference in water pressure at the sprinkler nozzles. If so, the unit is likely working.