How Much Does a Sprinkler System Repair Cost?

Every sprinkler system is different, and the cost of a repair can depend on the age of the system, accessibility of the problem, the parts needed, and how much labor is involved. The prices below are average costs to give you an idea of what you can expect to pay for common sprinkler system repairs.

For more complicated problems, we’ll inspect the system first and explain what needs to be repaired before the work is completed.

Common Sprinkler Repair Costs

Leaky Valve

Average cost: $225

A leaking sprinkler valve can be caused by several different problems. Sometimes the internal components of the valve can be replaced, which can save the cost of replacing the entire valve. In other situations, the valve itself may be damaged or worn out and replacement is the better option.

The final cost depends on whether we can repair the existing valve or if the entire valve needs to be replaced, as well as how accessible the valve is.

Sprinkler Timer Problems

Average cost: $325

Timer problems can have several causes. The timer itself may be malfunctioning, there may be a wiring problem between the timer and the valves, or the problem may actually be with one of the sprinkler valves.

Troubleshooting a timer or control problem typically takes about 15 minutes to identify the source of the problem. Once we determine what is causing the issue, the repair may involve replacing or repairing wiring, the timer, or a valve.

The average cost for diagnosing and repairing a timer-related problem is approximately $325.

Dry Spots in the Lawn

Average cost: $150–$300

Dry spots are usually a sign that an area of the sprinkler system is not receiving enough water. Common causes include an incorrectly programmed timer, a clogged or broken sprinkler head, a damaged pipe, poor sprinkler coverage, or a valve problem.

We’ll determine why the area is staying dry and recommend the appropriate repair. Depending on the cause, the average cost is $150 to $300.

Leaking or Dumping Backflow Preventer

Average cost: $150–$1,200

Backflow assemblies can be finicky, and water coming out of the backflow preventer does not always mean the entire assembly needs to be replaced.

Backflow devices are designed to release water under certain conditions to protect the drinking-water supply. If an assembly is continuously leaking or dumping water, one possible cause is a fouled or malfunctioning check valve.

A simple initial check is to operate the appropriate shutoff valve and see whether the leaking stops. If it does, the backflow assembly may have a problem with one of its check valves or internal components.

Because backflow problems can range from a relatively simple repair to replacement of the entire assembly, costs can vary considerably. The average cost is $150 to $1,200, depending on the problem and the equipment involved.

Broken Sprinkler Head

Average cost: $200

A broken sprinkler head is one of the more common sprinkler repairs. Damage can occur from lawn equipment, vehicles, freezing temperatures, settling soil, or normal wear and tear.

The repair may involve replacing the sprinkler head and adjusting the new head so it provides the proper coverage. If there is an underlying pipe or fitting problem, additional repairs may be necessary.

The average cost to replace a broken sprinkler head is approximately $200.

Main Valve / Stop-and-Waste Valve

Average replacement cost: $2,095

The main valve or stop-and-waste valve controls the water supply to the sprinkler system. When this valve fails, it may need to be excavated and replaced.

Because the main valve is typically located underground and may be connected to the home's or property's main irrigation supply, replacement can involve excavation, cutting and reconnecting pipe, installing the new valve, and restoring the area.

The average cost to replace a main valve or stop-and-waste valve is approximately $2,095.

Drip Irrigation Conversion

Average cost: $1,200

Converting an existing sprinkler zone to drip irrigation can be an excellent way to provide more targeted watering for planting beds, shrubs, gardens, and other areas.

A drip conversion may involve modifying the existing zone, installing filters and pressure regulation, adding drip tubing or emitters, and making adjustments to ensure the system operates properly.

The average cost for a drip irrigation conversion is approximately $1,200, although the actual cost depends on the size and layout of the area being converted.

Drip Irrigation Repair

Average cost: $200

Drip irrigation systems can develop leaks, clogged emitters, damaged tubing, or problems with fittings and connections.

We can identify the source of the problem and repair or replace the affected components. The average cost for a drip irrigation repair is approximately $200.

Adding a Sprinkler Head

Average cost: $225

Adding a sprinkler head can improve coverage in an area that is not receiving enough water. The cost depends on how close the new head is to the existing sprinkler line and whether the existing zone has enough water volume and pressure to support another head.

Before adding a sprinkler head, we’ll determine whether the existing zone can handle the additional demand. If the zone does not have enough capacity, additional modifications may be necessary.

The average cost to add a sprinkler head is approximately $225.

Adding a Sprinkler Valve

Average cost: $250

Adding a new sprinkler valve can allow you to create a new irrigation zone or separate an existing area for better watering control.

The cost depends on where the new valve needs to be installed. In some cases, the existing valve manifold needs to be excavated to add the valve. In other situations, we may need to cut into the mainline and install a tee and new valve.

We’ll also determine whether there is an available wire from the irrigation timer. If there is not, additional wiring may need to be installed.

The average cost to add a sprinkler valve is approximately $250.