How to Fix Broken Sprinkler Lines

Most sprinkler lines are made out of PVC. This material is a very durable injection-molded plastic that resists corrosion. But plastic pipes can break under stress, such as when water freezes inside. With no where to go, the expanding water can create cracks or breaks in your underground sprinkler lines. Repairing this damage is a matter of exposing the break and placing a clamp over the crack or break.

Shovel
Pipe repair clamp
Screwdriver

Instructions

- 1
  Locate the area of the leak. If you do not know exactly where the leak is located, run the sprinklers for 30 minutes and look for pooled water on the surface. The area of the pooled water will indicate the area of the leak.
- 2
  Dig up the dirt around the area of the leak, being careful not to cut into the PVC line with the shovel. Take your time removing dirt in small amounts.
- 3
  Wipe away any dirt around the crack or leak.
- 4
  Place a pipe repair clamp over the crack. Make sure the rubber gasket is placed directly on the crack or break. The gasket will create a watertight seal around the leak.
- 5
  Tighten the two screws located on either end of the clamp. Tighten them by hand until the screws will not move anymore.
- 6
  Run the sprinklers and check the repair for signs of leaking, and replace the dirt around the pipe. Replace any grass that was removed on the surface.

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