Before you call anyone, a few safe checks can rule out the simple causes. Work from the controller out to the yard.
Start at the controller
- Is there a display? If not, check the breaker, GFCI outlet and the transformer plug.
- Is a rain delay or rain sensor stopping the schedule?
- Is the seasonal adjustment set very low?
- Check every program for extra start times (a common cause of running twice).
- Try running one zone manually from the controller.
Then check the water supply
- Is the irrigation shutoff valve fully open?
- Is the backflow preventer’s valve open and not leaking?
- On pump-fed systems, is the pump getting power?
Then look at the zone
- Do any heads come up? None, some, or all but weakly?
- Is the valve box dry, or full of water?
- Is there a soggy area or water bubbling up while the zone runs?
Troubleshoot by symptom
- Nothing is working
- One zone isn't working
- Sprinklers won't shut off
- Leaks and wet spots
- Heads that won't pop up or rotate
- Low pressure
- Controller and timer problems
- Electrical and wiring problems
- Uneven watering
- High water bill
When the checks above don’t find it, the cause is usually electrical (solenoid, wire, common wire) or underground (pipe, fitting, valve). See typical repair costs.