Damaged Sprinklers = High Water Bill: Houston Home Inspector

Imagine opening your water bill and finding a shockingly high amount. Damaged sprinklers can  lead to hidden leaks, unnecessary overwatering, and ultimately, wasted money. A thorough sprinkler inspection can pinpoint these issues, saving you from costly repairs and conserving water. 

SuperTeam Services are your trusted Houston home inspectors. We can identify hidden problems and ensure your sprinkler system is running efficiently. Contact us today for a comprehensive Houston home inspection.

Common Sprinkler Problems in Houston

Our climate can be tough on sprinkler systems. Our scorching summers, periods of drought, and sudden heavy rainfall all contribute to wear and tear. Let’s break down how these factors can cause problems:

Heat and Drought: Imagine baking in the sun all day – that’s what your sprinkler system endures! The intense heat can cause sprinkler heads to crack and become brittle. Dry soil shrinks and shifts, putting stress on underground pipes and potentially leading to leaks. These leaks may be small and go unnoticed, but they can waste a lot of water and drive up your bill.

Heavy Rainfall: While we need rain, intense downpours can cause problems too. The force of the water can dislodge sprinkler heads or cause soil erosion, exposing and damaging pipes. Excessive water can also overwhelm the system, leading to backups and overflows.

Wear and Tear: Even with the best care, sprinkler systems age over time. Parts wear out, seals break down, and materials degrade. Common issues include:

• Cracked lines: Pipes can crack due to age, ground movement, or tree root intrusion. These cracks can be tiny and hard to spot, but they waste significant amounts of water.
• Clogged nozzles: Dirt, debris, and even small insects can clog sprinkler heads, preventing proper water distribution. This leads to uneven watering, with some areas getting too much water and others not enough.
• Malfunctioning valves: Valves control the flow of water to different zones in your yard. A faulty valve can cause a zone to stay on continuously, wasting water and potentially flooding your lawn.

Poor Installation: A poorly installed system is a recipe for disaster. Common installation errors include:

• Incorrect pipe depth: Pipes buried too shallow are vulnerable to damage from lawnmowers, foot traffic, and temperature changes.
• Improper backflow prevention: Backflow preventers stop contaminated water from flowing back into your home’s water supply. If not installed correctly, they can malfunction, posing a health risk.
• Misaligned sprinkler heads: Sprinkler heads that aren’t properly aligned can spray water onto sidewalks, driveways, or your house, wasting water and potentially causing damage.

Landscaping Changes: As your landscaping matures, it can impact your sprinkler system. Tree roots can grow around and even through pipes, causing blockages or breaks. Plus, adding new plants or changing the layout of your garden without adjusting your sprinkler system accordingly may result in areas of your yard getting either too much or not enough water. 

Optimize Your Sprinkler System with Houston Home Inspectors

Buying a home in Houston? A sprinkler system inspection is a must! It’s easy to overlook potential problems, especially when you’re caught up in the excitement of a new home. That’s why Houston home inspectors are here to look at all the details for you.  

What we evaluate in your sprinkler system:

1. Proper water pressure and coverage: Ensures each zone receives adequate water pressure and that sprinkler heads are distributing water evenly, preventing overwatering or dry spots. Dry spots often mean there is a clogged nozzle or misaligned sprinkler head nearby. We look for unusual spray patterns, geysers, or areas where water seems to be pooling or flowing excessively.
2. Sprinkler heads, valves, and timers: We examine each component for signs of damage, wear, or malfunction. We check for leaks, clogs, and proper operation of valves and timers.
3. Signs of leaks or damage: We know how to spot even subtle signs of leaks, such as damp areas, unusual water flow patterns, or evidence of previous repairs. Pooling water indicates a leak or blockage.

Even if you didn’t have an inspection when you purchased your home, scheduling regular sprinkler system checks is crucial. Catching problems early allows for timely repairs, extending the life of your sprinkler system and ensuring its efficient operation. Plus, your inspector can help you adjust your watering schedule based on the season, weather conditions, and your landscape’s specific needs. This not only helps keep your plants and lawn healthy, but saves water usage on your next bill.

Finding the Best Houston Home Inspectors

Look for experienced inspection professionals who understand Houston’s unique climate and common irrigation issues. Check online reviews and ratings, and ensure the inspector holds the necessary licenses and certifications in Texas. A knowledgeable inspector should be able to look at your whole property in detail, and provide the accurate assessments and valuable insights you need to make important decisions.

Contact SuperTeam Services today for a sprinkler system inspection or get it included in your comprehensive property inspection. Our expert Houston home inspectors are on your side. Schedule your Houston home inspection now!