Sprinkler Repair vs Replace: How to Know When It’s Time

Your sprinkler system has been acting up — heads not popping up, dry spots in the lawn, maybe a zone that won’t turn on. The question every homeowner faces: is it worth repairing, or is it time for a new system?

When to Repair

Most sprinkler problems are straightforward repairs. If your system is under 15 years old and the issues are isolated, repair is almost always the right call.

Common repairs that make sense:

• Broken or clogged heads ($30-75 per head)
• Single valve replacement ($150-300)
• Controller replacement or upgrade ($200-500)
• Minor pipe repair from a single break ($200-500)
• Head adjustments after frost heave (often included in spring startup)

These are normal wear-and-tear items. On North Shore properties with mature landscaping, heads get bumped by mowers, roots shift pipes, and valves wear out over time. None of these mean your system is failing.

When to Replace

A full system replacement makes sense when repair costs start approaching the cost of a new installation, or when the system can’t perform adequately regardless of repairs.

Signs it’s time to replace:

• System is 20+ years old — PVC becomes brittle, fittings deteriorate, and the entire system becomes unreliable
• Frequent repairs — if you’re calling for repairs 3+ times per season, the system is telling you something
• Galvanized steel pipes — older systems used steel that corrodes from the inside out. Once corrosion starts, it doesn’t stop
• Chronic low pressure — if multiple zones have weak coverage despite repairs, the mainline may be failing
• Landscaping has changed significantly — if your yard looks nothing like it did when the system was installed, the zones may no longer match your actual needs

The Middle Ground: Partial Upgrades

Sometimes the best option is upgrading specific components rather than replacing everything. Common upgrades we do across Highland Park, Winnetka, Northbrook, and the North Shore:

• Smart controller upgrade — replace an old timer with a Hunter Hydrawise for weather-based scheduling
• Head upgrades — swap old spray heads for modern high-efficiency rotary nozzles that use 30% less water
• Add drip irrigation — add dedicated drip zones for garden beds and landscaping

Get a Professional Assessment

Not sure which route to take? We’ll inspect your system and give you an honest recommendation.

📞 Call (847) 566-0099 or Schedule a Free Estimate

Part of our Complete Guide to Sprinkler Systems in Chicago.