What to Do When Your Sprinkler Head Won't Go Down (2024)

The most common cause of a stuck sprinkler head isdirt and debris.

If dirt, rocks, leaves, or grass gets caught between a sprinkler body and the sprinkler riser, it can clog up the works and stop the riser from sliding back into the body. Resulting in a sprinkler head that won't go down.

Fortunately, this common problem is exceedingly easy to fix. Once you remove the dirt or debris from around the sprinkler, the head should be able to slide back into place.

Unfortunately, a stuck sprinkler head isn't always so easy to fix. Damage to the sprinkler head can also prevent it from going back down.

If the sprinkler'sseal or riseris slightly warped, cracked, or damaged in some other way, that can prevent the sprinkler head from sliding back down into place. If the spring is exposed or loose, that can also prevent the sprinkler from lowering.

While damage can occur naturally thanks to everyday wear and tear, damage can also happen with foot traffic or lawn mower or other lawn maintenance equipment.

Finally, as we mentioned before, consistent use and exposure to the outdoors will take a toll on your sprinkler system after a while.

If several of your sprinkler heads are stuck, that could be a sign that your sprinkler system is in need of a tune up/overhaul.

How to Fix a Sprinkler Head That Won't Go Down

When it comes to fixing your sprinkler system, the first thing you need to do is identify what is stopping it from going down.

If your stuck sprinkler head is due to built-up debris, all you need to do is gently brush away the extra dirt and yard waste. If you find any damage upon your inspection, the repair can be a little more complicated, depending on the system you own.

Consult your sprinkler's user manual for more information on replacing broken parts, or consider contacting a sprinkler repair specialist to come to take care of the job for you.

Repairing and Maintaining Your Sprinkler Heads

Dealing with a stuck sprinkler head doesn't have to be all that complicated. Sprinkler heads aren't all that complex, there's a very limited number of things that can cause them to get stuck.

Now that you know what you can do about a sprinkler head that won't go back down, it's time to get to work getting your sprinkler system back up and running again.

Need a little help getting your yard looking it's best? We've got you covered.

Contact us for more information about our services or to schedule a consultation today!

What to Do When Your Sprinkler Head Won't Go Down (2024)

FAQs

What to Do When Your Sprinkler Head Won't Go Down? ›

Clean any debris from the inside of the sprinkler body or on the nozzle mechanism. Rinse the components with water and wipe them down with a rag. Turn the water on to the station controlling the sprinkler head. This will force out any dirt or debris that may be the cause of repeated sticking after reassembly.

What to do if the sprinkler head stays up? ›

To fix this:
  1. Unscrew the body cap.
  2. Pull out the sprinkler assembly.
  3. Examine the parts.
  4. Clean out debris.
  5. Replace parts if necessary.

How do I lower the pressure on my sprinkler head? ›

Using a small screw driver, you'll need to either tighten or loosen this adjustment screw to achieve your desired results. Generally, if you're having a problem when it comes to over-spraying, then you can turn the screw clockwise to reduce the amount of water pressure.

Can I use WD-40 on sprinkler heads? ›

Sprinklers with a head comprising a spray management mechanism (with movable rods, pre-set sector jet adjustments, pulse stop, etc.) can be further lubricated with WD-40 Specialist Silicone Lubricant. This will help to prevent the sprinklers jamming.

Why is my sprinkler head not spraying enough? ›

Inspect the Sprinkler Head

In addition, we also check for any debris or dirt that may be clogging the nozzle and affecting the water flow. This could include anything from grass clippings and leaves to small rocks or stones that may have become lodged inside the nozzle.

How to fix a sprinkler head that won't go down? ›

Clean any debris from the inside of the sprinkler body or on the nozzle mechanism. Rinse the components with water and wipe them down with a rag. Turn the water on to the station controlling the sprinkler head. This will force out any dirt or debris that may be the cause of repeated sticking after reassembly.

What happens to the sprinkler head if there is too little pressure? ›

When the water pressure is too low, the sprinkler system will not function correctly. If this issue occurs, it's best to have a professional sprinkler repair company come to address it promptly.

How to fix sprinkler pressure? ›

Adjust the dial and deflector on impact sprinklers manually.

Every brand of sprinkler is different, but there's typically a pressure valve on the top that you can turn manually to increase the pressure. There's also a deflection guard on the side of the head you can adjust to change the breadth of the water.

Can you increase sprinkler pressure? ›

Think of a sprinkler valve like a sink faucet; if you only turn the knob a little bit, the pressure will be low. If you turn the knob all the way, the pressure will be much higher.

What is the best lubricant for sprinkler heads? ›

After thoroughly cleaning the parts, the dispenser body must be treated with WD-40 Specialist Silicone Lubricant and inserted and extracted several times to best distribute the lubricant evenly. This ensures that the pop-up can easily move when irrigation water is returned to the underground circuit.

What is the lubricant for rainbird sprinklers? ›

All Rain Bird Sprinklers Are Water Lubricated

This includes oil, WD-40, silicone, Teflon, pipe dope, etc.

What liquid is used in sprinkler head? ›

The bulbs typically contain a glycerin-based liquid. As the air around the sprinkler head reaches the target temperature – usually 155F or 200F – the glycerin-based liquid expands. Once the target temp is reached, the liquid expands enough to burst the glass bulb.

Why is my sprinkler head stuck up? ›

If dirt, rocks, leaves, or grass gets caught between a sprinkler body and the sprinkler riser, it can clog up the works and stop the riser from sliding back into the body. Resulting in a sprinkler head that won't go down. Fortunately, this common problem is exceedingly easy to fix.

How do I reduce the water flow to my sprinkler head? ›

At the top of the nozzle, you will find a small screw. Use a flat-headed screwdriver to turn the screw to reduce or extend the radius of the nozzle opening. Set the arc position by adjusting the stem to cover the spray distance you need.

Why is my pop up sprinkler not going back down? ›

Here are some common reasons why a pop-up sprinkler may stay stuck up: debris in the pop up body. the riser is damaged. or the riser seal is worn.

Why won't my sprinkler head rotate? ›

Rinse the filter in a bucket filled with clean water to wash out debris. If this doesn't work you'll need to have the sprinkler head replaced. This can be a fairly involved job so you'll more than likely be better off calling in an expert. If it does work, make sure the head is properly adjusted when you re-install it.

Why won't my lawn sprinklers retract? ›

The most common cause of a stuck sprinkler head is dirt and debris. If dirt, rocks, leaves, or grass gets caught between a sprinkler body and the sprinkler riser, it can clog up the works and stop the riser from sliding back into the body. Resulting in a sprinkler head that won't go down.

How to fix a leaning sprinkler head without? ›

Use a shovel to dig around the head, remove the sod, and carefully clear the dirt around the head. Next lift and straighten the head, packing soil under and around it until it is even with the ground and can easily clear the grass when it pops up. Then replace the sod piece back in place over the sprinkler head.

References

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