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You’ve done your homework and know that your sprinkler system needs to be turned off for the winter. You don’t water to freeze and cause damage to the piping, and you want to protect and preserve the sprinkler for optimal performance next spring. But, what happens when you go to turn off your sprinkler and the system won’t shut off?
If a zone keeps running after you’ve turned it off, it’s a clear indication that something is not functioning properly. The underlying reason may be as simple as a scheduling mistake, or it can be more severe and involve a mechanical error.
How to Turn off the Sprinkler System
The first step is to shut off the system. You can do this by switching the “off” button on the controller or by turning off the shut-off valve. If you choose to turn off the sprinkler system manually, all you need to do is turn the controller to “off.” If you unplug or disconnect the controller, you could mess with the sprinkler schedule.
If you choose to turn off the valve, you’ll be cutting off the water to the sprinkler system, but not the rest of your home. This valve can be found at the source of water for your irrigation system, and you’ll simply need to flip the valve switches to “off.”
How to Identify the Problem
It’s difficult to know exactly what could be causing the irrigation system to not turn off, so your best bet is to turn off the water supply and call in a professional who can assess the issue. It is possible that the sprinkler valves need a good cleaning since dirt and debris can get trapped in the valve and cause problems. So, for a little DIY practice, check to see if the valves are clogged.
If the valves are clean, check to see if they are cracked or broken. Valves can be easily replaced, and you can find additional parts from your local hardware store. You may also try adjusting settings to see if the water not turning off was simply a scheduling mistake. If your efforts fail, however, let an irrigation company assess the problem and fix the system in no time so that you’re not wasting water, and therefore, money.