How to Troubleshoot Sprinkler System Problems

Turn the dial on the front of the controller to "Run" or "Auto" to activate the timer if the sprinklers don't turn on as scheduled. The controller must be set to turn on after all the watering start times are entered and saved. Not all timer models feature a dial -- some have buttons instead. If that's your setup, then press the necessary buttons to enable the timer.

Press the buttons or twist the dial on the controller that take you to the water start times settings if the timer is on yet the sprinklers don't pop up. Review all of the water start times for each zone and program. Confirm that a start and run time is set for each zone. Confirm that the correct day is set, as well. If details are missing, use the keypad to enter a water start time, run time and day for each zone and program, if necessary.

Locate and reset the controller's reset button if the display is inaccurate, looks odd or is blank. The timer's electrical source might have experienced a power surge or been struck by lightning. Some timers shut off as a safety measure and feature the reset button to restore normal function. After the reset button is pushed, the timer should correct itself and display normally. If the reset doesn't restore the timer, contact the manufacturer about a repair or possible replacement.

Insert the supplied adjustment wrench, which usually comes with all adjustable sprinklers, into the stem pull-up slot on top of the spray head if the water stream is stunted. The nozzle might be blocked or damaged and requires replacement or cleaning. Turn the wrench about half of a turn and raise the stem to expose the nozzle opening. Insert the adjustment wrench into the radius adjustment screw on top of the spray head and twist the screw counterclockwise, until the nozzle is loose. Remove the nozzle from the nozzle opening. If the nozzle is blocked or clogged, clean it with water, your fingers or air only. Reinsert the nozzle or insert a new nozzle into the nozzle opening and twist the radius adjustment screw clockwise until the new nozzle is locked into place.

Insert the supplied adjustment wrench into the arc adjustment slot if the spray head rotates too far and waters unnecessary areas, such as pavement. Twist the tool clockwise to shorten the range of the spray head, until the stream stays just inside of the watering area boundaries. If the fixed side of the spray head is the side that overshoots, you need to dig up the entire housing of the sprinkler and readjust it in the ground until its fixed side is even with its corresponding side of the watering area.