Author: Justin Wilson

How to Find Sprinkler Lines

Written by Justin Wilson on January 20, 2025. Posted in Sprinkler Maintenance. No Comments on How to Find Sprinkler Lines

Last Modified: 1/20/25

Finding sprinkler lines can seem tricky, but there are effective ways to locate them without unnecessary digging. If you’re wondering how to find sprinkler lines without digging or need tips on how to find PVC sprinkler lines, tools like wire locators or electronic line tracers can help pinpoint their location with ease. For those trying to figure out how to find sprinkler heads or how to avoid sprinkler lines when digging, start by identifying the layout of your system, often guided by the location of valves or control boxes. In Travis, where irrigation is common, knowing how to find sprinkler lines in Texas can save time and prevent costly repairs. Using these methods ensures you avoid damaging your system while keeping your yard intact.

Why Locating Sprinkler Lines is Important

There are essential reasons behind seeking a precise location of the property’s underground sprinkler lines. For one thing, digging or installations on your property that interfere with your system’s lines can compress or puncture those lines, leading to expensive repairs and the risk of water damage.

It’s also helpful to immediately locate lines to remedy:

Leaks.
Water pressure problems.
Maintenance or repair issues.

As experts like American Irrigation Repair will tell you, locating lines with precision is the first step to handling this sort of work efficiently. After all, causing unnecessary property damage is something everyone wants to avoid!

Methods for Locating Sprinkler Lines

So, what are the methods professionals use to locate underground sprinkler system lines?

Check for a System Map

While it might seem obvious, the easiest method for quickly locating sprinkler lines is to refer to a system map. Installation companies often prepare a detailed map that shows the exact location of sprinkler heads and service lines. When properly drafted, these maps provide accurate measurements from building foundations, curbs, and fixed property markers.

Have you lost your system map? Are you unsure if you received one when you installed the system or when you bought the property? Try contacting the company that installed the system for a duplicate map.

Look for Sprinkler Heads

Do you know how to find sprinkler lines? Well, lines always connect to sprinkler heads. In the absence of a map, the sprinkler heads’ locations provide you with great clues as to the location of any underground lines.

A technician might approach this process by marking the position of each sprinkler head to trace the approximate path between them. Installers usually run straight lines between each head, forming a grid (unless there are some obstructions or other reasons to deviate from straight lines). A grid formation is the most efficient distribution system, and you can easily mark these lines between sprinkler heads with flags or spray paint.

Find Valve Boxes

Valve boxes are another essential component of your property’s sprinkler system. The boxes house the valves that control water flow to each zone of your irrigation system. Installers usually place valve boxes close to buildings or sprinkler heads in a round lid mounted flush with the ground.

When repair technicians locate a valve box, they can trace lines from valves to nearby sprinkler heads. (Some valve box designs place them below the surface, so you would carefully dig around it to expose the box without damaging the lines that connect to it).

Use a Line Tracer

As its name suggests, a line tracer is an electronic device that helps locate underground lines without extensive digging. Knowing how to find sprinkler lines with a tracer is quite simple:

You send an electronic signal through the wires that run alongside sprinkler lines.
A receiver picks up the signal.
The tracer interprets the signal, indicating the precise path of the sprinkler lines.

This technology is helpful with older irrigation systems that lack a reliable system map.

Probe for Sprinkler Lines

Have you thought about using a probe to locate underground sprinkler lines? The probing tool enters the soil to feel for resistance from pipes buried under the surface.

It’s low-tech, and you must exercise caution to avoid damaging buried lines.

Ground Marking Techniques

One final technique is ground marking, a straightforward sprinkler line location method that involves digging around sprinkler heads or valve boxes to locate a section of the pipe. After the dig exposes a line, mark its path with flags or spray paint.

This process is time-consuming. It requires a good bit of digging in precise locations, but it does offer certainty in your search for water lines.

Contact American Irrigation Repair for Complete Sprinkler System Maintenance Today

That’s how to find sprinkler lines. As you can see, some professional assistance would come in handy to leverage the technology and tools needed for precise sprinkler line mapping.

Serving property owners around Georgetown, Round Rock, and Austin, Texas, since 1997, American Irrigation Repair offers award-winning service and risk-free system analysis. Call (512) 943-6080 today to schedule service or learn more!

How Much Do Home Sprinklers Cost to Install?

Written by Justin Wilson on January 20, 2025. Posted in Sprinkler Repair. No Comments on How Much Do Home Sprinklers Cost to Install?

Last Modified 1/20/25

Austin, TX, gets less annual rainfall than the national average, meaning taking care of your landscaping can be tricky. Fortunately, landscaping sprinkler systems are a simple solution to ensure your yard gets the watering it needs. Of course, a natural question homeowners have is: How much do home sprinklers cost to install? The team at American Irrigation Repair is here to answer your questions about home sprinkler installation costs in 2025.

Sprinkler Systems Labor Installation Costs

According to our research, the average cost to install a home sprinkler system in the Austin area is between $3,500 and $5,200. Custom and high-end and extensive sprinkler systems can cost upwards of $8,000 or more to install.

Factors that Affect Home Sprinkler System Installation

Several factors will affect the cost of installing a home sprinkler system such as those listed below.

The Contractor

Unlicensed contractors or installers often do systems for a low price. Remember the quality, performance, and longevity of your system usually match the caliber of the contractor you hire.
A contractor mustn’t be obtaining the required licensing and permits, it’s likely they are substantially cutting corners on the job as well to reduce their costs.
What do your contractors’ reviews look like?
Workforce: Does your contractor hire employees or is he using a hodge-podge collection of day laborers and sub-contractors to do the work?

The 2 Most Common Residential Irrigation Systems

Homeowners can choose between two main types of sprinkler systems: Below-ground systems and temporary above-ground sprinklers.

Below-ground sprinkler systems bury the pipes and lines directly into the ground. They are more expensive to install and maintain but are highly efficient and practically invisible.
Temporary above-ground sprinkler systems are comparatively less expensive to install and maintain, but the above-ground hoses and pipes can pose a safety hazard. It is also easier to damage them when doing yard work (i.e., mowing, weeding, etc.)

Sprinkler System Costs Are Based on Zones, Not Square Footage

Lawn size is the other major factor that affects sprinkler installation rates. As a general rule of thumb, you can estimate a cost of about $0.40 to $1.00 per square foot. All other things being equal, companies will charge a lower price per square foot for larger yards.

Irrigated Area (Square Feet)	Approx. Lot Size	Starting Price
1 – 2393 sq ft	Partial Small City Lot (Under .15 Acre)	$4340
2393 – 3500 sq ft	Small City Lot (Under .15 Acre)	$4340 – $5150
3500 – 5000 sq ft	Regular City Lot (.15-.2 Acre)	$5150 – $5560
5000 – 7000 sq ft	Medium to Large City Lot (.2-.3 Acre)	$5560 – $6135
7000 – 12000 sq ft	.3 to .4 Acre Lot	$6135 – $6950
12000 – 15000 sq ft	Half Acre Lot	$6950 – $7410
15000 sq ft and up	3/4 Acre Lot and up	$7410 (Plus 40¢ per sq ft over 15000 sq ft)

Intricate designs, unique soil and site conditions, city permits, and inspections may cost extra.

Number of Sprinkler Heads

Aside from pipes, lines, and installation, you also need to factor in the number of sprinkler heads. Sprinkler heads can vary in cost significantly from $2 to $30, but more expensive heads will usually last longer than cheaper heads. The typical single-zone irrigation system uses about four to six rotating heads of eight to twelve mister-style sprinkler heads per zone.

Soil Quality & Orientation

Lawns that are composed of compact dirt or rocky soils are tougher to work with, so installation will cost more and take longer. Often rock saws, jackhammers, or good old-fashioned muscle is required in the rocky central Texas soil. Additionally, it takes more work and effort to install a sprinkler system in a sloped or uneven yard.

Locating and Permitting

If you are going to be digging to install a new sprinkler around your property, you need to be sure the utilities are located and marked before beginning the project. Permits are required for most municipalities around the Austin Metro area and a professional contractor should handle the permitting process as part of their service and include the price in their quote. A permit to install a new sprinkler system will add between $50 and $200, depending on the scope and complexity of the project.

Award-Winning Irrigation Services in Austin, TX

If you have any more questions, like “How much do home sprinklers cost to install?” get in touch with our irrigation contractors. Contact American Irrigation Repair online or call today at (512) 943-6080 to schedule an appointment for sprinkler installation services in Austin TX!

Sprinkler Control 101: Understanding Your Sprinkler Control Box & Best Drainage Practices

Written by Justin Wilson on December 30, 2024. Posted in Sprinkler Maintenance, Sprinkler Repair. No Comments on Sprinkler Control 101: Understanding Your Sprinkler Control Box & Best Drainage Practices

Is your sprinkler system not performing as well as you hoped? The right sprinkler control box settings and drainage practices can make a difference.

As trusted irrigation specialists in Austin and Leander, our team at American Irrigation Repair is trained to know how to keep lawns green and lush. Keep reading for a few handy sprinkler tips.

Water Only As Needed

Some people prefer to stick to a strict watering schedule. It’s more convenient, yes, but not the best long-term approach for sprinkler system longevity.

Why not wait until you see the signs of drought stress in your grass? That might look like the following:

Grass blades turn bluish-gray.
Footprint impressions become visible after walking across the lawn.
Grass blades curl or wilt.
The soil feels dry to the touch a few inches down.

Irrigation experts will tell you it’s actually good to let your lawn dry out a bit. A short period of water stress encourages the roots to grow deeper, making the lawn more drought-resistant over time.

Inspect the Irrigation Control Box & Settings

Does your lawn seem too dry or soggy? Look at your sprinkler control box’s settings. You could have set the wrong schedule by mistake. During the wintertime, it’s common to water far too frequently. A little goes a long way when temperatures are mild.

The controller box settings can sometimes revert to default after a power outage or maintenance, so double-check the start times, run times, and days. If the settings seem fine, your control box might have a bigger issue. Worn wiring or faulty components can disrupt performance, so you’ll need to bring in a sprinkler system care specialist for an inspection.

Ensure Your Heads are Clean – You May Need to Flush Any Clogged Screens.

Sprinkler systems should drain automatically after each cycle. Sometimes the nozzles can back-siphon debris into them causing the screens to plug. Ensuring the heads are set at grade correctly will help prevent debris from entering the system. Removing and flushing the debris from the screens may be necessary if you see clogs.

Clogs and debris: Small particles, like dirt or sand, can impede the flow and create pressure and coverage issues.

Drain Your Sprinkler System During Freezing Weather

During cold weather, you will want to drain your backflow valve. Leaving water in the system during freezing temps may cause the backflow to split or crack causing leaks.

Backflow: The backflow preventer’s purpose is to prevent dirty water from entering your home drinking water supply. Backflow is caused when your system has negative pressure or when water changes direction in the pipes. Usually, this is from an open hydrant, a nearby pump, or a damaged water main.
Backflow devices with the highest risk of freezing damage: Some devices are required to be above ground. Most commonly these are installed on homes that have septic systems. If you have a device that is above ground, ensure the backflow is insulated and wrapped well.

The safest bet is to use unions and remove the entire valve during freezing weather. This allows you to store the device indoors where it will not freeze. When draining your system to prepare for freezing weather, our team will usually drain or remove the valve to prevent component damage. We turn off the water supply valve, open all inlet and outlet drains by moving the handles to a 45° angle, and lastly, open the drain valve and let it empty.

Assess the Sprinklers

Does one spot seem to get too much water? The best water drainage solutions are the simplest. First, look for misaligned sprinkler heads – they sometimes shift due to foot traffic, mowing, or weather.

A clogged sprinkler head won’t dispense water evenly, either. Unscrew the nozzle and rinse it under running water.

Get Professional Sprinkler Maintenance in Austin and Leander

Do the sprinkler control box and heads need more than a quick fix? American Irrigation Repair can calibrate them, replace damaged parts, and incorporate proper drainage methods. Dial (512) 943-6080 to book a checkup or find out more sprinkler drainage practices or sprinkler maintenance tips in Austin and Leander!

A Rain Bird sprinkler system in a yard, watering the grass. The Rain Bird sprinkler head, mounted on a tall pipe, sprays a fine mist of water over the green grass, ensuring even coverage. Surrounding the grass are plants and flowers, adding color to the garden.

Mastering the Art of Sprinkler Head Adjustment: A Guide to Optimizing Your Irrigation System

Written by Justin Wilson on December 20, 2024. Posted in Irrigation, Sprinkler Repair. No Comments on Mastering the Art of Sprinkler Head Adjustment: A Guide to Optimizing Your Irrigation System

Last Modified: 12/20/24

Having a sprinkler system is a good start, but it doesn’t always mean your lawn is being watered properly. Over time, sprinkler heads can get misaligned, and your lawn’s needs can change. With simple sprinkler head adjustments, you can make sure your irrigation system works efficiently, avoiding issues like uneven patches, underwatering, or overwatering. This guide will walk you through how to keep your lawn healthy and your system running smoothly

To adjust your sprinklers, it helps to understand when and why your irrigation system may need to be fine-tuned. When you find adjusting the system is needed, you must learn how to change the spray pattern, distance, direction, and arc. Read on to learn everything you need to know about sprinkler head adjustments.

The Importance of Sprinkler Head Adjustments

With the proper know-how, you can achieve efficient and effective irrigation, giving your lawn the right amount of water in the correct places. Failure to implement these adjustments could lead to issues like the following:

Uneven watering: Without the perfect spray pattern, you may see patches in your lawn where some areas of grass receive more water than others. This can cause water to pool, appear as leaks or cause disease in your landscape.
Water Waste: If your spray patterns overlap, overwatering the lawn or watering the hardscapes, you will ultimately waste water, spiking your water bills unnecessarily.
Property damage: Over time, your sprinkler heads may move in the wrong direction from people or pets stepping on them or mower vehicle and equipment damage. Some sprinklers may accidentally begin spraying structures like your house, shed, and more, causing water damage or rot.
Under or overwatering: Without the right water level adjustments, you may under or overwater your lawn, which will not keep the grass healthy.

Ultimately, mastering your sprinkler head adjustment strategy can help you enjoy healthier plants and water conservation savings.

Identifying Common Adjustment Needs

Sprinklers require adjustment for numerous reasons beyond being knocked out of place. The following are a few factors that could necessitate adjusting your sprinkler heads:

Landscaping changes: Changing your landscaping means also updating your sprinkler patterns. For example, if you install a stone patio, you likely won’t need any water in that area. Heads may need to be re-positioned, relocated, or added to prevent watering the patio and ensure adequate coverage.
Vegetation growth: As plants grow in your yard over time, consider what may or may not need watering. For example, young trees will likely need more frequent watering than mature ones. Bubblers may need to be relocated further into the root zone, or heads may need to be raised. Installation of taller heads may also be a benefit to clear higher turf or plant material.
Seasonal adjustment requirements: You must also change your sprinkler water schedule and seasonal adjustment percentage based on the season, temperature, and weather.
Water distribution irregularities: By monitoring your yard regularly, you can view water distribution irregularities, such as patches in your grass or areas with stunted growth, to make further adjustments. Adding heads or coverage areas may be needed to achieve the maximum and most efficient coverage.

Adjusting Different Sprinkler Head Types

Different types of sprinkler heads require specific adjustments to optimize water distribution efficiency while minimizing overspray. Here are some basic instructions for a few of the most popular types of sprinklers:

Gear-driven rotor sprinklers: Use a rotor adjustment tool to increase or decrease the arc setting using the sprinkler head’s plus and minus symbols. Many common rotors can be adjusted with a screwdriver and Allen wrench to adjust the rotor throw distance. Many common rotor heads have a fixed stop on either the right or left top side of the head. The plus or minus adjustment will typically adjust the arc limit on the opposite side.
Pop-up sprinklers with adjustable spray: Use a screwdriver or adjustment screw tool on the top of the head to adjust the throw distance. Adjusting the arc is achieved by turning the entire head in the direction you need to adjust. Adjustable style spray heads have a nozzle that either the top or an adjuster just below the top can rotate to adjust the arc of the head.
Drip sprinklers: Adjust from the emitter to select the right flow rate for the plant material. Many drip emitters are adjustable which can assist in areas of different plant material.
Impact sprinklers can be adjusted by rotating the head to adjust the stop-side arc and the metal arc limit adjustor to adjust the non-fixed side of the arc.
Fixed-spray sprinklers: Fixed-spray sprinklers are minimally adjustable. They will have a distance adjuster that can be increased or decreased with a small screwdriver. The arc is generally fixed and non-adjustable. The right and left stops are adjusted by spinning the entire head.

Step-by-Step Adjustment Techniques

Now that you have an idea of how to adjust your sprinkler heads, let’s go through some step-by-step instructions. The exact spray pattern adjustment steps will depend on the type of sprinklers you have, so you may need to check your manual for more specific instructions.

1. Find the Adjustment Screw Thread

The first thing you should do is locate the sprinkler head adjustment screw thread, as this will allow you to make your adjustments. The screw thread is on the top or of the sprinkler or in two places on top for gear drive rotor sprinklers. You will need a screwdriver or special tool to make any adjustments to this screw adjuster.

2. Rotate the Screw or adjuster To Change the Spray Pattern

Now, you can turn your screw clockwise or counterclockwise to adjust the distance of the spray pattern. For many types of sprinklers, this action will affect the arc, ultimately increasing how far the water sprays, though it could also affect the direction of the water.

Before changing anything, be sure that the sprinkler head and water are in the right positions. Some sprinklers must be positioned a certain way before you can begin adjustments. For example, with a gear-driven rotor sprinkler, the head should be facing to the left at a completed cycle before you make any adjustments.

3. Follow the Arrows To Change the Spray Distance

Most sprinkler heads will also have arrows with plus and minus symbols indicating spray distance control. When you turn your adjustment tool accordingly, you can control how much water the sprinkler will let out. The spray distance screw thread may be in the same spot as the previous adjuster, or it may be located elsewhere on the sprinkler head, depending on which type you have.

4. Test and Change Accordingly

As you make any changes, you must turn the water on so you can test what you’ve done and adjust accordingly. After adjusting all sprinkler heads, ensure you have uniform coverage across your yard to avoid over- or underwatering.

Troubleshooting and Maintenance Tips

As you go through your sprinkler head adjustment steps, you may discover issues like clogs, leaks, or damaged components. You can clean filters to resolve clogs, though damaged components and leaks often require repairs from a professional.

Conducting routine maintenance can help you prevent issues with your irrigation system. We recommend replacing worn-out parts, cleaning filters, and checking for leaks regularly to keep your irrigation system functioning optimally.

Videos on Adjusting Rotors

Need Help Adjusting Your Sprinklers?

Adjusting your sprinkler heads for optimal water efficiency and total yard coverage isn’t always an easy task. If you need help, call American Irrigation Repair today at (512) 943-6080 to get answers to any further questions you might have and schedule sprinkler head adjustment services or repairs.

How To Service Sprinkler Systems

Written by Justin Wilson on November 20, 2024. Posted in Sprinkler Maintenance, Irrigation. No Comments on How To Service Sprinkler Systems

Installing a lawn irrigation system ensures your garden gets enough water without requiring extra time and attention from you. You’ll also want to know how to service sprinkler systems if you want to keep your equipment in excellent condition for as long as possible. American Irrigation Repair shares some essential sprinkler service maintenance steps below.

How To Tell If Irrigation System Repair Is Necessary

The longer you ignore sprinkler damage, the worse it’ll get. Call an irrigation system specialist for immediate inspection and repair services. Irrigation system repair is likely necessary if you notice one or more of the following problems:

Damaged sprinkler risers or heads
Leaks
Visible damage to water lines
Increasing water bills without an obvious reason
Areas of extra green grass growth or marshy areas in the lawn

Best Sprinkler Maintenance Tips To Remember

If you want to learn how to service sprinkler systems and keep your yard healthy and looking its best, consider these expert tips.

Conduct Seasonal Sprinkler Checks

Typically, sprinkler maintenance should occur once in the fall and again in the spring. A sprinkler winterization process protects the equipment from ice damage. We recommend a minimum of twice-per-year inspections and tune-ups.

The basic steps in winterizing sprinklers might include:

Turn off the main water supply
Drain all pipes
Ensure any exposed above-ground valves or piping are fully insulated and protected

Once spring comes around, you’ll then gradually turn on the water supply to avoid problematic pressure surges. As you do, look for leaks and sprinkler heads that aren’t working.

Clean Sprinkler Heads Correctly

Sprinkler head cleaning forms part of essential maintenance. Sometimes, dirt and residue can clog sprinklers and cause problems like misdirected or inadequate water streams.

Grass runners can grow over the sprinkler heads blocking them from popping up or shrub heads can become covered or blocked by plant growth or mulch.

Irrigation experts can quickly clean your sprinkler heads because they know what to look for. The beauty of having professionals do it is that they can also replace the faulty heads immediately to keep your irrigation working smoothly.

Inspect Sprinkler Valves

Valve adjustment is sometimes necessary to ensure the irrigation system’s performance. Depending on your system, you might find valves in the areas near the heads or around the property water meter, backflow preventer, or emergency shut-off location. Valves can be located above or underground. Once you locate the sprinklers’ valves, look for water seeping from around the components. This is a warning sign that your irrigation system is wasting water and needs repairs.

Locate and Repair Leaks

Has your lawn sprinkler system sprung a leak? Turn off the equipment at the controller.

For pipe leaks, experts will do the following:

Remove the damaged portion of the line using pipe cutters or a saw.
Install couplings or repair fittings on the ends of the pipe.
Insert a replacement section of pipe or repair coupling.
Backfill and clean up the work area.

Then, they’ll test the system to see that the sprinkler service has done its job.

Get Professional Help With Lawn Sprinkler Upkeep From Our Seasoned Irrigation Crew

Don’t worry if you don’t know how to service sprinkler systems. Our professionals at American Irrigation Repair do it all, from sprinkler head adjustments to winterization and repairs. After nearly 30 years of service, we’re one of the top, multi-award-winning irrigation companies serving Leander, Texas.

See why American Irrigation Repair has more than 2,000 positive customer reviews—call (512) 943-6080 to request our services!

The “Dig a Bigger Hole Rule” of Irrigation

Written by Justin Wilson on November 20, 2024. Posted in Irrigation. No Comments on The “Dig a Bigger Hole Rule” of Irrigation

The “Dig a Bigger Hole Rule” of Irrigation: Lessons Learned in 27 Years in the Business

When I first entered the irrigation business nearly three decades ago, I made my fair share of mistakes like many newcomers. One of the most memorable—and consequential—was what I now call the “Dig a Bigger Hole Rule.” It was a lesson that took time and experience to fully understand one that I share with new irrigation professionals every chance The crux of the lesson? Don’t cut corners by digging a small hole just for the time or energy. While it might seem like a shortcut, it only leads to more headaches, costly repairs, and wasted time.

Let in the long run me take you back to my early days in the industry, around Austin, Texas, where I first learned this lesson the hard way.

The Rookie Mistake: Small Holes, Big Problems

When I started in the irrigation business, I was young, eager, and eager to prove myself. We were often under tight deadlines and working with limited resources. It made sense to me at the time to dig smaller holes to access broken pipes or faulty components. After all, the smaller the hole, the less effort and time spent digging, right?

It seemed like a good idea in theory. I thought by keeping the excavation minimal, I was saving time, energy, and labor costs. I figured I could get in, make the repair, and be on my way, all while keeping things tidy and efficient.

But, as I soon found out, this approach was anything but efficient in the long run.

The Problems with Small Holes in Irrigation

Digging small holes may seem like a good idea at first, but it quickly became clear that it created a slew of issues. First and foremost, small holes made it difficult to properly align the fittings. If I didn’t have enough space to work with, getting the correct angles on pipe joints and fittings was a nightmare. The lack of space made it nearly impossible to ensure everything lined up precisely, which led to misaligned fittings, poorly solvent-welded joints, and, ultimately, leaks.

Additionally, small holes created a problem with water drainage. After cutting into the pipe, there was often residual water left in the hole. With a small excavation, there was nowhere for that water to go, and it just pooled in the area, making it a mess to work in. The water, dirt, and debris from the soil also tended to infiltrate the system, causing even more problems down the road.

And that was just the beginning. The real issue lies in the long-term effects. When debris or soil gets into the lines, valves, and fittings, it causes all sorts of havoc. Dirt and particles can clog the lines, affecting water flow and causing the system to malfunction. The particles can also get caught in valves, causing them to stick or fail entirely.

Furthermore, poorly aligned and solvent-welded fittings don’t hold up over time. They may not leak immediately, but over weeks and months, they weaken, leading to eventual leaks that can be costly to repair. I learned the hard way that these minor oversights—created by cutting corners in the digging process—often turned into much bigger headaches down the road.

The Turning Point: Embracing the Bigger Hole

It took me a while to fully understand the value of digging a bigger hole. At first, I resisted the idea because it felt like more work. I wasn’t excited about the prospect of extra digging or additional effort. But after a series of frustrating repairs and the realization that I was just digging myself into more problems, I finally decided to try something different.

This is when I discovered the importance of giving myself the room to work. Digging a larger hole actually made the repair process more efficient and far less stressful.

By digging out a larger area, I could easily access all the components and get a clearer visual of how the fittings and pipes should be aligned. I could make sure everything was connected properly without being hindered by tight space. A larger hole also allowed for better drainage, which was crucial for keeping the area dry. If any residual water remained in the trench after making the repair, it could naturally flow away from the work area instead of pooling in the excavation.

Most importantly, a larger hole meant there was less chance for dirt, debris, or soil to get into the system. When you have the space to move around, it’s easier to keep everything clean, which reduces the risk of contamination in the lines. And, as anyone in the irrigation business knows, keeping the system clean is one of the most important aspects of maintaining long-term functionality and reliability.

The “Dig a Bigger Hole Rule”

Through trial and error, I came to understand what I now call the “Dig a Bigger Hole Rule” of irrigation. This rule is simple: when you’re making repairs or working on an irrigation system, give yourself plenty of space to work. Digging a larger hole may take a little more time and energy upfront, but it will save you a great deal of frustration, time, and money in the long run.

Here’s why:

Proper Alignment of Fittings: A larger hole gives you enough room to carefully align your fittings and pipes. This ensures that everything is properly solvent-welded and securely in place, reducing the risk of leaks or future failures.
Easier Drainage: If there’s any residual water left in the system after cutting into the pipe, a larger hole allows it to naturally drain away from the work area. This keeps your feet dry and prevents the hole from becoming a muddy mess.
Less Debris Contamination: More space means less chance for dirt and soil to fall into the system, ensuring the lines, valves, and fittings stay clean and free of obstructions that could cause clogs or system failures.
Long-Term Durability: Properly aligned, well-sealed fittings and a clean system are less likely to fail prematurely. A bigger hole ensures that you do the job right the first time, which means fewer repairs in the future.
Increased Efficiency: It may feel like more work at first, but a larger hole makes the repair process much smoother. You’ll find that once you have the space to move and work comfortably, the job becomes quicker and more efficient overall.

Passing on the Lesson: Mentoring New Irrigation Pros

After 27 years in the irrigation business, I’ve seen a lot of young professionals make the same mistakes I did. Newcomers often want to save time by cutting corners, whether it’s digging small holes, skipping necessary prep work, or ignoring the importance of proper system maintenance.

But the best piece of advice I can give to anyone entering this business is simple: embrace the “Dig a Bigger Hole Rule.” It’s a lesson that will serve you well throughout your career. By taking the time to do things right, you’ll save yourself countless headaches and avoid the frustration of dealing with preventable leaks, clogs, and repairs.

Remember: Extra Digging Up Front Can be Helpful!

The “Dig a Bigger Hole Rule” may seem like a small piece of advice, but it encapsulates a broader philosophy about the value of doing things right from the start. When it comes to irrigation, shortcuts can be costly in both time and money. The next time you’re faced with a repair or installation, remember that a little extra digging upfront can save you a lot of trouble down the line.

After 27 years in the business, I can confidently say that this lesson—though learned through mistakes—has been one of the most valuable I’ve taken away. And now, I’m passing it on to the next generation of irrigation professionals so they can avoid the same pitfalls I faced. Because, as it turns out, sometimes the bigger hole really is the better option.

The Importance of Irrigation in the Texas Climate

Written by Justin Wilson on November 1, 2024. Posted in Irrigation. No Comments on The Importance of Irrigation in the Texas Climate

Unpredictable rainfall and high temperatures can make it difficult to grow plants in Central Texas. Your ability to irrigate your lawn or garden can be the difference between having beautiful green plants or a struggling landscape that downgrades the look of the property. Learn more about the importance of irrigation in the Texas climate below.

The Tough Climate in Central Texas

According to the National Weather Service, the Central Texas area averages about 35 inches of rainfall every year. However, much of the rain falls in late spring and autumn, leaving the prime growing season of summer drier than other times of the year.

When rain is not falling regularly in Texas during the summer, when temperatures regularly reach the 90s or higher, you may need irrigation to keep your garden and lawn vibrant and green.

In addition to having an irrigation system available, homeowners in the Leander area may choose to use certain types of grass, garden plants, and landscaping flowers that can stand up to drought. Should your residence end up under watering restrictions during dry conditions, you will be glad to have drought-tolerant plants and an efficient irrigation system.

Managing Water Use in the Leander, Texas, Area

The importance of irrigation in the Texas climate is clear since so many people here need water for lawns, gardens, and crops; however, it can be difficult to conserve enough water for everyone’s needs, including agriculture.

When conservation is highly important to you, trust an irrigation repair and installation service to create a system that focuses on:

Efficiency in water use
Using technology to monitor irrigation needs
Delivering water in the most sustainable way
Watering at times of the day that are most efficient

However, any irrigation system must not sacrifice the health of the plants by excessively reducing water usage. A trusted professional team can give you the perfect balance between conserving water while irrigating and keeping your plants vibrant.

Managing the Importance of Every Drop of Water

The right irrigation system can reduce waste when watering lawns and gardens. Your irrigation system design can use precise application methods that conserve water. The system can ensure the majority of the water reaches the plants rather than being lost to soil erosion or evaporation.

Any irrigation system you use needs to be fully adjustable. You should be able to reduce your water usage in the days after rain rather than saturating your lawn or garden unnecessarily. Some irrigation systems may even automatically apply water at times when soil measurements show that the soil and plants are in need of water application.

Trust American Irrigation Repair for All Your Home Watering Needs

Whether you need a new irrigation system or repairs to your existing layout, American Irrigation Repair can help. We serve the entire Leander, Texas, area. We can help with:

Sprinkler system rebuilds
Modifications to irrigation systems
Repairs and system maintenance
Control box repair and maintenance
Design of sprinkler and irrigation systems

Our team is ready to help you today. Call us at (512) 943-6080 to discuss the importance of irrigation in the Texas climate and your specific needs.

We joined the Liberty Hill chamber

Written by Justin Wilson on October 10, 2024. Posted in Uncategorized. No Comments on We joined the Liberty Hill chamber

Howdy yall! I’m proud to announce we’ve joined the Liberty Hill chamber of commerce. We’ve been serving the Liberty hill area for nearly three decades, seems like we would have joined before now?! member page for American Irrigation at libertyhillchamber.org

Ashly and I were driving the area and went up to the H-E-B in Leander and were joking about all the changes especially in Seward Junction. Do y’all remember when that corner had the old Smokey Mo’s on it forever ago, and a flashing light?!

My Dad was talking to me as we were heading out to hunt the other weekend about when he was in college going to Baylor he would run between Burnet and Waco in his old Mustang. He remembered 29 being a two lane road and there wasn’t much around going from Burnet to Georgetown. I feel old when I find myself reminiscing about the same changes my Dad tells me about. I suppose that is the way life works we always fondly remember the old days.

Enough ramblings of yesteryears for now! Be sure to let us know if you know anyone that is in need of a new sprinkler system or needs help with any type of sprinkler repair in Liberty hill.

Just joined the Round Rock chamber of commerce

Written by Justin Wilson on October 6, 2024. Posted in Sprinkler Installation, Sprinkler Repair. No Comments on Just joined the Round Rock chamber of commerce

After years serving Round Rock Ashly and I finally agreed we needed to join the Round Rock chamber.

Link to American Irrigation Round Rock Chamber of commerce page

Round Rock has some of the more important things in life Ash and I enjoy, going out on a date night, especially when we go eat out 🙂 Some of our favorite date night dine out destinations in downtown are In Round Rock. Ginos over off mays – Dude there pizza, fried cheese or calzones!

Years ago we were lucky enough to tag along with a family member to Italy, my wife swore she would find pasta like in Italy when we returned. Somehow Palermo pasta house came up on her radar. Holy smokes check out the Sugo ravioli this is legit!

We’ve earned favor with the neighbors dropping off Round rock donuts on Saturday morning – in fact one of the best things we’ve ever done!

Basically some of our favorite things to do (EAT) 🙂 are in Round rock, we are glad to plug in and be a part of the chamber. Hopefully this helps us connect with folks who decide to hire us when they need a tune-up, repair on their irrigation system, or new system install.

Ashly & Justin