Sprinkling system leaks!?

Question

I just installed a sprinkling system. When we turned the water main on, there were 3 small leaks, which we repaired. I'm talking 1 drip every 30 seconds or so. Now that we repaired the leaks and covered with dirt, I'm nervous that there may be more that we didn't detect. Is this normal? Reassure me that small leaks aren't bad and that any leaks can be fixed!!

Answer 1

Don't worry about it.   Just run each zone to see if each sprinkler head works.   If the heads don't have enough pressure from a leak then they will not turn but will only be stuck spraying in one place.   If this happens then keep the system running until you start to see some wet areas then you will know where the leak or leaks are.   You only lose water when the sprinklers are on and If it is only dripping like you said, one drop per 30 seconds, I would not worry about it until you have a major leak which you will see when your heads will not operate properly.   The ground holds the pipe in place and there really is no place for it to go, so you should be OK.   Just pay attention for the next few weeks and if everything is working properly then you should be fine.   You will lose more water to evaporation than losing a drop of water every 30 seconds.  If it is from your main line that you are concerned with then make sure no water is running in your house, then check your water meter to see if it is still running.   If it is not then you don't have any leaks in your main line.   If it is a slow leak you will evenually have a wet area or a really green area from your grass where the leak is.   I had a leak on my main line once and it was a sight to see.   The centipede grass bubbled up to a perfect half circle about 2 feet in diameter.   One of the funniest things I ever saw.  Good luck.

Answer 2

Sounds like someone did a real poor job of installing it.  Even small leaks can use lots of water over a year and should be fixed.

Answer 3

David.  Is this a lawn sprinkler or Fire Sprinkler.  

If Fire, call back the contractor and make them fix it.  In the USA, they have to ensure that is doesn't leak.  Email me if you need code references for that.

Answer 4

I agree with Duane...and, since you already had leaks, why on earth would you fill  before making sure there weren't any more?