Impact Sprinkler Problems

Doesn't Rotate

• If the impact sprinkler doesn't rotate, the water pressure from the water source might be too high or too low. An impact sprinkler requires a certain amount of water pressure to create the impact motion that causes the sprinkler to rotate. You can determine the pressure going into the sprinkler with a water pressure gauge. Insert a pitot tube gauge into the stream of the sprinkler as close to the nozzle as possible without touching it. Depending on the read out, adjust the water pressure from the water source accordingly.

Stuck Rotating one Way

• An impact sprinkler can be set to turn in only one direction continuously or to rotate back and forth between two points. At the base of the impact sprinkler, there are two trip collars encircling the base and a trip pin, which is a straight piece of metal that can be raised up at a right angle or lowered straight down. If the trip pin is lifted up, the sprinkler head will turn continuously in one direction. If you are watering an area near the street, driveway or the wall of your home, this could be a problem. Lower the trip pin between the two trip collars. Squeeze the prongs of the two trip collars and adjust them to align with the watering area boundary opposite to each of its positions.

Blockage

• Sometimes, sprinkler nozzles and other components can get blocked up with debris and water deposits, causing the sprinkler's spray to be severely stunted or completely hindered. Remove the sprinkler from the ground and inspect the nozzle, swivel bearing and inlet for debris. If you see debris, insert a wire gingerly into the nozzle to loosen the debris. Avoid forcing objects into the sprinkler to avoid damage. If necessary, loosen the nozzle with a wrench and unscrew it. Wash the sprinkler parts thoroughly to eject oil and dirt. Avoid using harsh cleaning products or oil for lubrication unless directed by the manufacturer, as this might damage the sprinkler.

Oil Damage

• If oil has been used on the sprinkler, this might be the cause of its malfunction. Lubrication, for most units, is unnecessary, and while it immediately may fix a problem, ultimately it hurts the sprinkler by gathering debris. Unscrew the components of the sprinkler necessary to remove all bearing washers. Replace all bearing washers with new, non-oiled ones. The bearing washers are simple round components located in the swivel-bearing assembly, which is just below the trip collar area.