Irrigation System Repairs in Austin
TCEQ-licensed irrigators diagnosing and repairing all types of irrigation system problems — from broken heads and valve failures to underground leaks and freeze damage. Serving Austin since 2007.
Irrigation System Repair Services in Austin
A malfunctioning irrigation system costs you money in wasted water, damages your landscape through over- or under-watering, and can create compliance issues with Austin Water's Stage restrictions. Whether you have a broken sprinkler head, a zone that won't turn on or off, an underground leak, or a controller that's lost its programming, Grass Works Austin's TCEQ-licensed irrigators can diagnose and repair the problem.
We repair all major irrigation system brands and stock common replacement parts to complete most repairs in a single visit. For more complex issues — underground leaks, multiple valve failures, or systems that haven't been serviced in years — we provide a thorough assessment and a clear repair plan before any work begins.
We also provide annual irrigation system inspections and backflow preventer testing — the annual testing required by Austin Water for all irrigation systems connected to the municipal water supply.
Common Irrigation Repairs We Handle in Austin
Broken Sprinkler Heads
The most common irrigation repair in Austin. Sprinkler heads break from lawn equipment, vehicle traffic, and freeze damage. A broken head wastes significant water — a single broken rotor can lose 1–3 gallons per minute. We replace broken heads with matching or upgraded units and adjust coverage to ensure uniform distribution.
Valve Failures
Zone valves control water flow to each irrigation zone. Failed valves can cause zones to not turn on, not turn off (resulting in continuous water flow and high water bills), or operate erratically. We diagnose and replace failed valves, solenoids, and valve diaphragms.
Leak Repairs
Leaks in irrigation mainlines and lateral lines waste water and can cause soggy areas, erosion, and foundation issues. We locate and repair underground leaks using pressure testing and visual inspection. Leaks are often caused by root intrusion, settling soil, and freeze damage.
Controller Programming & Replacement
Irrigation controllers fail, lose programming, or become outdated. We program existing controllers, replace failed units, and upgrade to smart controllers that automatically adjust schedules based on weather data. Smart controller upgrades can qualify for Austin Water rebates.
Backflow Preventer Service
Backflow preventers are required by Austin Water on all irrigation systems and must be tested annually by a licensed tester. We test, repair, and replace backflow prevention devices and provide the required test reports to Austin Water.
Freeze Damage Repair
Austin's occasional hard freezes can crack irrigation pipes, heads, and valves. We assess and repair freeze damage after winter events, including re-winterizing systems after repairs are complete. Proper winterization — blowing out lines with compressed air — prevents most freeze damage.
Coverage Adjustments
Irrigation systems often develop coverage gaps as landscapes mature — trees grow and shade previously sunny areas, plants grow taller and block spray patterns, and head positions shift. We assess coverage and adjust head positions, spray patterns, and nozzle selections to restore uniform coverage.
Drip System Repairs
Drip irrigation emitters clog, lines crack, and fittings fail over time. We repair and replace drip system components, flush clogged emitters, and assess drip coverage to ensure all plants are receiving adequate water.
Annual Irrigation Inspection & Backflow Testing
An annual irrigation inspection catches problems before they become expensive — identifying broken heads, coverage gaps, valve issues, and controller problems before they waste water or damage your landscape. Austin Water also requires annual backflow preventer testing for all irrigation systems. We combine both services into a single visit:
Run each zone and inspect all heads for coverage, breakage, and proper operation
Check valve function — confirm each zone turns on and off cleanly
Inspect controller programming and update schedule for current season
Test backflow preventer and provide required Austin Water test report
Assess overall system efficiency and identify upgrade opportunities
Provide written report of findings and recommended repairs
Related Services
Frequently Asked Questions About Irrigation Repairs in Austin
How do I know if my irrigation system has a leak in Austin?
Signs of an irrigation leak include unexpectedly high water bills, soggy areas in the lawn that don't dry out between irrigation cycles, erosion or washout in landscape beds, and the water meter continuing to run when all fixtures are turned off. Some leaks are visible as wet spots on the surface; others are underground and only detectable through pressure testing. If you suspect a leak, call us for an irrigation inspection.
My irrigation zone won't turn on — what's wrong?
A zone that won't turn on is typically caused by a failed valve solenoid, a broken wire between the controller and valve, a failed valve diaphragm, or a controller programming issue. We diagnose the specific cause and repair or replace the affected component. Zone failures are common and usually straightforward to repair.
My irrigation zone won't turn off — what should I do?
A zone that won't turn off is usually caused by a stuck valve diaphragm or debris in the valve preventing it from closing. This wastes significant water and should be addressed immediately. Turn off your irrigation system at the controller and call us for a repair. If the zone continues running even with the controller off, shut off the irrigation water supply at the backflow preventer.
How much does irrigation repair cost in Austin?
Irrigation repair costs depend on the type and extent of the repair. Simple repairs like replacing a broken sprinkler head are relatively inexpensive. Valve replacements, leak repairs, and controller replacements are priced based on the specific components and labor involved. We provide a diagnosis and estimate before performing any repair work.
Do you provide irrigation system inspections in Austin?
Yes. We provide comprehensive irrigation system inspections that assess head coverage, valve function, controller programming, backflow preventer condition, and overall system efficiency. An inspection is a good starting point if you're not sure of your system's condition or if you've noticed issues with your lawn that might be irrigation-related.
Does Austin Water require backflow preventer testing?
Yes. Austin Water requires annual testing of backflow prevention devices on all irrigation systems connected to the municipal water supply. Testing must be performed by a licensed backflow tester. We perform backflow testing and provide the required test reports. Failure to test can result in water service interruption.
Can you repair any brand of irrigation system?
Yes. We repair all major irrigation system brands including Rain Bird, Hunter, Toro, Orbit, Irritrol, and others. We stock common replacement parts for all major brands and can source specialty parts as needed.
What areas do you serve for irrigation repairs in Austin?
We provide irrigation system repair services throughout Austin, Cedar Park, Round Rock, Georgetown, Leander, Lakeway, Bee Cave, Marble Falls, Horseshoe Bay, Lago Vista, Pflugerville, and surrounding communities in the Highland Lakes area.
Irrigation Repairs in Your City
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