Replacing a Sprinkler Head

Replacing a sprinkler head is one of the easiest repairs you can do. If I had a dollar for every head I've replaced, I could retire twice.

When to Replace

• The head won't pop up or retract
• It's cracked or broken
• It sprays in random directions despite cleaning
• The nozzle is worn out and the pattern has changed
• The seal is gone and water leaks around the stem

What You'll Need

• A replacement head (same brand and model is ideal, but most brands are interchangeable if you match the thread size)
• An adjustable wrench or pliers
• Teflon tape
• A small trowel or hand shovel

Steps

1. Dig around the head to expose the riser or funny pipe connection. Be careful not to cut the supply line.
2. Unscrew the old head. Turn counterclockwise. If it's stubborn, use pliers on the head body — never on the riser or fitting below.
3. Clean the threads on the riser. Remove any old Teflon tape.
4. Wrap the riser threads with 3-4 wraps of Teflon tape, clockwise.
5. Screw on the new head by hand first, then snug it with pliers. Don't over-tighten — you'll crack the fitting.
6. Set the arc and distance on the new head before backfilling. Turn the zone on and adjust.
7. Set the head height. The top of the head should be flush with the ground when retracted. Not above (mower will destroy it) and not below (dirt will clog it).
8. Backfill and tamp the soil firmly around the head.

Matching Tips

When buying a replacement, bring the old head to the store. Match the body type (pop-up spray vs. rotor), the thread size (most residential is 1/2" NPT), and the nozzle type. If you're replacing a rotor, make sure the new one has the same nozzle size so it matches the precipitation rate of the other heads on that zone.