A sprinkler head that sits too low compromises your lawn’s health and irrigation efficiency. When turf or soil obstructs the spray pattern, it leads to dry spots and wasted water pooling near the head. Correcting a sunken sprinkler is a straightforward project that restores the head to its proper operating height, ensuring full and even coverage.
Identifying the Cause and Gathering Supplies
Sprinkler heads typically sink due to natural soil settling, the accumulation of grass thatch and turf roots, or compression from heavy equipment. This movement lowers the head below the lawn grade, causing it to spray directly into the surrounding grass. Reduced clearance prevents the water stream from reaching its intended distance, leading to poor distribution and uneven growth.
Before starting the repair, turn off the water supply to the affected zone or main irrigation line to prevent a sudden release of pressurized water. You will need a small hand trowel or shovel for excavation, along with a stiff brush and a rag to clean components and prevent dirt from entering the pipe. The primary material is the riser extension, which can be a fixed, threaded pipe nipple or a more flexible swing joint.
For a fixed riser connection, use a pipe wrench or stub wrench to install the new component, along with Teflon tape or pipe joint compound for a watertight seal. A swing joint, which features flexible tubing and elbow fittings, is often preferred because its articulated design absorbs impact from foot traffic or equipment, reducing future breakage. Select the correct riser size, typically 1/2-inch or 3/4-inch diameter, to match the existing pipe fittings.
Step-by-Step Guide to Raising the Sprinkler Head
Start by carefully excavating the soil around the sunken sprinkler head, working slowly to avoid damaging the underground lateral pipe or fittings. Dig a circular trench six to eight inches in diameter, deep enough to fully expose the connection where the sprinkler head screws into the riser or elbow fitting. Once the area is clear, use a brush and rag to wipe away excess dirt, ensuring the threads are visible and clean.
With the components exposed, grasp the sprinkler head and twist it counter-clockwise to unscrew it from the riser or elbow. If the head is stubborn, a wrench may be required, but take care to avoid cracking the plastic body. Immediately place a clean rag or small piece of plastic over the open pipe end to prevent soil or debris from falling into the line, which can clog the nozzle or internal mechanism.
Next, unscrew the existing riser or pipe nipple from the underground elbow or T-fitting, turning counter-clockwise. Once the old riser is removed, measure the distance needed to bring the sprinkler head flush with the surrounding turf line. The new riser extension must be long enough to achieve this height, accounting for the length of the threads screwed into the fittings.
If using a fixed plastic riser, wrap the male threads with two to three layers of Teflon tape in a clockwise direction. This thread sealant ensures a tight, leak-free connection. Carefully screw the new riser into the pipe fitting by hand until it is snug, then use a wrench for a final quarter-turn to secure the connection without overtightening, which can crack the plastic pipe.
Reattach the sprinkler head to the top of the new riser extension, screwing it on clockwise by hand until it feels firm. Orient the head so the nozzle is aimed in the desired direction for the spray pattern. The head should be stable and positioned vertically, ready for the water test.
Testing, Adjusting, and Backfilling
With the new riser and sprinkler head secured, slowly turn the water supply back on to the zone. Observe the connection closely for any immediate leaks, which appear as bubbling or a steady drip at the threads. If a leak is visible, immediately shut off the water and slightly tighten the connection with the wrench until the leak stops, taking care not to over-stress the plastic components.
Once the connection is watertight, activate the irrigation system for a full cycle to check the spray pattern and water coverage. A properly raised head projects water cleanly over the turf, distributing it evenly across the intended area. If the arc or trajectory needs fine-tuning, adjust the head’s nozzle or rotation mechanism, typically using a small flat-head screwdriver.
After verifying the system is working correctly, begin the backfilling process, carefully packing the excavated soil back into the hole around the sprinkler base. The goal is to ensure the top of the sprinkler head casing sits flush with the final grade of the turf. This positioning prevents damage from a lawnmower blade while allowing the pop-up mechanism to rise fully for optimal water distribution.