Retractable garden sprinklers tend to get stuck as they get older, being exposed to lawn mower blades. If hit, they can cause water leaks that will cause bills to go up and the grass to rot. Replacing a sprinkler is simple; follow this guide and your garden will always be green.
Steps
Step 1. Dig the soil about 6 inches around the sprinkler, using a shovel
Don't dig too deep or you risk damaging the water pipe. Keep in mind that if you have sprinklers that are 6 inches or more in diameter, there's a good chance the water hose will enter the side of the sprinkler, a few inches off the ground. Be very careful not to damage the tube.
Step 2. Turn the turf over with the shovel and keep it aside
You will put them back later.
Step 3. Gently remove the dirt around the sprinkler
Create a small pile on one side, you will need it later to fill the hole again. Dig up to the water pipe (15-20cm deep).
Step 4. When you have reached the small vertical support on which the sprinkler is mounted, unscrew the piece and remove it
Do not drop dirt into the holder (you can plug it with a rag). The holder may unscrew from the water hose, remaining attached to the sprinkler. If it happens, unscrew it from the spray, being careful not to damage the fillet. If it doesn't come off, you can plant a sharp knife on the end of the holder for pry. The blade needs to penetrate just enough to grab, allowing you to unscrew the piece.
Step 5. Take the piece you removed as a sample to the shop
Buy an identical sprinkler. If there is not the same make and model, check that the internal diameter and height are the same. Different brands of sprinklers can also have different heights. If you buy one that is too long, it will stick out of the grass once installed. Another consideration: if possible, buy a sprinkler with an orange cap, they are easier to clean than traditional ones.
Step 6. Wrap the thread of the holder with Teflon tape (available from the plumbing department of any home improvement store)
Screw in the new sprinkler and hand tighten it.
Step 7. Activate the sprayer for a moment, so that any dirt that may have gotten into the hoses during the process comes out
Step 8. Turn off the water, raise the spray and insert the plastic filter
Put everything back together.
Step 9. Turn the spray nozzle to direct the water jet in the desired direction
Before closing the hole, start the sprinkler and check that there are no leaks between it and the water pipe. If necessary, tighten the sprinkler (or add more Teflon) to stop the leak
Step 10. Close the hole with soil, compacting it well around the sprinkler
Step 11. Reposition the sods around the sprinkler
Step 12. Run the sprinkler system to check that everything is working properly
You may need to orient the sprayer.
Advice
- Most sprinklers have a female thread. You will need a holder with a male thread of equal size to install it. The old holder may be compatible with the new sprinkler.
- The power of the jet can usually be adjusted by turning a small central screw with a slotted screwdriver.
- If the water is sprayed, the pressure may be too high. Try using a self-compensating sprinkler.
- The raised grass will return to its original state within a few weeks. The difference will not be noticed.
- An old steak knife is ideal for cutting the turf. Otherwise, use a pointed trowel.
- Place the excavated earth on a tarp to make it easier to clean the lawn once the job is done.
- Use a towel to help you screw in the sprinkler.
Warnings
- Do not close the hole again before you have purged the spray. You may need to make further adjustments.
- Be careful when digging around the sprinkler. You don't have to damage the water pipe.
- If water is leaking from the sprinkler instead of being sprayed, it may be broken or not tight enough.
