Home Garden

How to Change Water Sprinkler Heads

An in-ground irrigation system has several sprinkler heads that home owners place strategically around a yard to give it water to the yard. When not in use, the sprinkler heads hide in the grass. When the water turns on the pressure in the irrigation lines raises the sprinkler heads above the grass to water the yard. Sprinkler heads run the risk of accidental kicks or being run over by a lawn mower and may need replacing. Fortunately, replacement heads are inexpensive and quick to install.

Things You'll Need

  • Shovel
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Instructions

    • 1

      Dig up the area surrounding the sprinkler head so that the base of the sprinkler head is accessible.

    • 2

      Unscrew the sprinkler head from the irrigation line and then discard it.

    • 3

      Screw the new sprinkler head onto the irrigation line.

    • 4

      Replace the dirt that was removed from the area around the sprinkler head.

    • 5

      Lift the pop-up using your fingers or pliers and then unscrew the nozzle. Remove the nozzle and the filter from inside the sprinkler head.

    • 6

      Turn on the irrigation system to flush out the sprinkler head. Turn off the irrigation system after a few moments.

    • 7

      Lift the pop-up once again and then insert the filter. Screw on the nozzle and then drop the pop-up.

    • 8

      Turn on the irrigation system one last time and then turn the pop-up by hand or with pliers so that it sprays in the correct direction.