How Much Does Sprinkler Repair Cost in 2024?

Most homeowners spend between $110 and $365 on sprinkler system repairs, with an average cost of $240.

When issues like broken pipes, valve problems, or blocked sprinkler heads arise, homeowners are often faced with the pressing question: “How much does sprinkler repair cost?” On average, most homeowners spend between $110 and $365 on sprinkler system repairs, with an average cost of $240.

In this article, we delve into the intricacies of sprinkler repair prices, unearthing the factors that can influence the final price tag. From the specific type of system you have installed, to which parts are damaged, and even the time of the year – all these aspects play a pivotal role in determining the cost. 

Average Cost to Repair a Sprinkler System in 2024

water coming out of a sprinkler system
Photo Credit: NithidPhoto / Canva Pro / License
National Average Cost$240
Typical Price Range$110 to $365
Extreme Low-End Cost$55
Extreme High-End Cost$650

Sprinkler system repair costs are determined by the type of sprinkler system and the extent of work needed. Minor repairs can cost as low as $55, while major repairs may run up to $650

Labor costs for sprinkler repairs generally range from $55 to $105 per hour. The cost for parts varies depending on the component. Sprinkler heads and connectors are the least expensive to replace, averaging $0.75 to $3.35 each, while a backflow preventer can cost between $400 and $1,450.

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Cost Estimator by Hour

When considering the sprinkler repair cost per hour, labor averages around $75 per hour of work. The majority of sprinkler repair companies charge an hourly rate in addition to the cost of the new parts. If the technicians have to drive outside of their regular service area, you’ll incur a fee to cover the extra travel costs. 

Emergency calls outside of regular business hours can cost up to $240 per hour; however, the majority of jobs range from $55 to $105 per hour

National Average Per Hour$75
Typical Hourly Range$55 to $105
Extreme High-End Cost$240

On average, common irrigation repairs take two hours or less for a pro to complete. 

Common Repairs NeededAverage Repair Time
Replace sprinkler heads1 hour or less
Faulty electrical wiring1 hour or less (per linear foot)
Replace leaking valves1 to 2 hours
Damaged backflow preventer1 to 2 hours

Other Factors That Affect Cost

The type of system you have, the nature of repairs needed, the parts, and the time of year all affect how much your lawn sprinkler system repair will cost.

Sprinkler System Type

Because the components are easily accessible, above-ground sprinkler systems are often less expensive to fix. In-ground systems typically require digging equipment and more time to repair, which increases the price. Depending on how accessible the system is, you can expect to pay between $50 and $500 for repairs.

Sprinkler repair pricing will range between $50 and $350 for above-ground systems and between $55 and $500 for in-ground systems.

Sprinkler System TypeAverage Repair Cost
Above-ground system$50 to $350
In-ground system$55 to $500

Cost of Parts

The cost of fixing your sprinkler system is influenced by which part is broken. Many homeowners can do quick fixes and easily maintain some parts of the system. Individual parts can range in price from $0.11 to $1,450

For instance, polyethylene pipes are among the least expensive to replace, typically costing between $0.11 and $0.33 per linear foot. In the middle range, a sprinkler valve costs between $13.75 and $110. On the other end of the spectrum, backflow preventers are more costly, with prices ranging from $400 to $1,450

The chart below shows the most common sprinkler system parts and average costs.

Sprinkler System PartAverage Part Cost
Backflow preventer$400 to $1,450
Connections $0.75 to $3.35
Manifold$68 to $130
Polyethylene pipe$0.11 to $0.33 (per linear foot)
Pump$100 – $300
PVC pipe$0.50 to $1.00 (per linear foot)
Sprinkler heads$2.75 to $3.35
Timer$30 to $300
Valve$13.75 to $110
Wiring$0.50 to $1.60 (per linear foot)
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Common System Repairs

Irrigation systems are often large and complex, with several moving parts, such as sprinkler heads, valves, plus electrical wiring. The difficulty of the repair will also affect the price. A sprinkler head replacement costs about $55 while replacing a backflow preventer can range from $455 to $1,660.

Sprinkler System RepairLow-End CostHigh-End Cost
Repair sprinkler head$55$95
Broken water pipe$150$350
Water pressure repairs $50$450
Damaged electrical wiring$55$90
Faulty valves$69$320
Replace backflow preventer$455$1,660
System maintenance$50$400

Sprinkler Heads

Broken sprinkler heads are a frequent culprit behind many service calls. Often, homeowners are faced with the decision of whether to repair or replace these components, leading many to wonder, “How much does it cost to replace sprinkler heads?” 

Sprinkler head repair costs typically between $50 to $85. However, there are times when replacement is the more viable option. On average, the cost to replace sprinkler heads is between $55 and $95.

It’s important to note that these prices can fluctuate based on the specific type of head, as detailed in the chart below.

Sprinkler Head TypeAverage Repair Cost
Bubbler$55 to $70
Fixed spray$58 to $100
Gear-driven$60 to $105
Misting$55 to $75
Pop-up$60 to $95
Rotary$60 to $120
Average price range$55 to $95

Water Pipes

Sprinkler systems are made up of multiple connected pipes that are found both above and below ground. In winter, an inadequately winterized sprinkler system may have water remaining in the pipes. If the water freezes, the pipe may rupture. Fortunately, the cost to winterize a sprinkler system is very affordable, at around $90, and can save you unnecessary costs come spring.

Sometimes, water pipes need repair no matter how well you follow a yearly maintenance schedule. The cost of repairing a broken pipe ranges from $150 to $350, including labor, and will vary based on the type of pipe used. 

Pipe MaterialAverage Cost (per linear foot)
Polyethylene pipes$0.11 – $0.33
PVC pipes$0.50 – $1

Water Pressure

Water pressure imbalances are a common problem with home sprinkler systems. Restoring proper water pressure can cost between $50 and $450, depending on the cause of the problem.

Low water pressure: Most lawns require one inch of water weekly to thrive during the active growing season. Limited water pressure causes insufficient watering and may result in brown spots in your grass. Maintaining water pressure and resolving any problems are critical to a healthy lawn. Low water pressure is often caused by:

  • Leaks in the water line
  • Damaged or clogged sprinkler heads
  • Improperly adjusted backflow preventer
  • System pump not working correctly
  • Blocked water supply

High water pressure: The EPA recommends putting pressure sensors between sprinkler zones. You can help the environment and improve the health of your lawn by not over- or under-watering the grass. Common causes of high water pressure:

  • Damaged sprinkler heads
  • Faulty valves
  • Variations in the slope of the landscape

Wiring 

Sprinkler systems are powered by electrical wiring, which can break or fray with time, disrupting the flow of electricity and causing the system to shut down or function erratically. Set aside between $55 and $90 per linear foot for broken wiring. A plumber can usually fix faulty wiring, but an electrician is recommended in some circumstances.

Valves

The water flow through the pipes and spray heads are controlled by a set of valves throughout the sprinkler system. As valves become loose, they might leak or break. 

Sprinkler valve replacement costs between $69 and $320. The total cost is determined by the time it takes to complete the service plus the cost of the part. Valve replacement typically takes one to two hours, and valves range in price from $13.75 to $110.

Backflow Preventer

A sprinkler’s backflow preventer is attached to its main water line, ensuring water only flows away from your home’s central water system. Your house’s water supply can become contaminated if backflow isn’t prevented.

Replacement of the backflow preventer, which can cost between $455 and $1,660, is frequently the most expensive repair. This includes the price of labor, replacing the backflow preventer, and testing the system.

Maintenance

Maintaining your system is an efficient strategy to minimize the risk of sprinkler issues and repairs. You can perform basic sprinkler maintenance and checkups yourself or hire a pro.

Sprinkler system tune-ups cost between $75 and $120 and should be performed at least once a year. Maintenance service calls run between $50 and $400 and may include the following:

  • Winterizing your sprinkler system
  • Inspecting the system
  • Cleaning sprinkler heads

Time of Year

Because the spring and summer seasons are the busiest for sprinkler repair professionals, they are also the most expensive times to have your system serviced. On the other hand, the cheapest time to repair your sprinkler system is late fall through winter.

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If you’re not just looking to repair your sprinkler system, but to improve your outdoor living space, consider these related services:

Install a New Sprinkler System

For those who have recently relocated to an older residence or find themselves with a sprinkler system that is irreparably damaged due to frost or simply outdated, opting for a new installation might be the prudent choice. 

Sprinkler system installation costs range from $2,400 to $4,200, with the average homeowner spending around $3,150.

Drip Irrigation Installation

Drip irrigation systems are an ideal choice, especially for garden beds, as they deliver water droplets directly to the roots of the plants. This method is highly efficient, significantly lowering water costs, reducing the growth of weeds, and ultimately making garden maintenance much more manageable.

The average cost of installing a drip irrigation system ranges between $295 and $775. However, based on the size and location, you could find yourself paying as low as $50 or stretching your budget to as high as $3,000.

Rain Barrels

A rain barrel can help save money by reducing your water use and monthly water bill. Because of the environmental benefits of rainwater collection, some governments provide incentives to homeowners that do so. 

Verify your local rainwater collection regulations, as some states do not allow rainwater collection. A rain barrel usually costs around $140. 

Lawn Mowing

Lawn mowing is the fundamental lawn care service, and it is arguably the most popular one. It’s a service that transcends mere aesthetics; it is crucial for promoting vigorous and healthy grass growth, nourishing the lawn, and discouraging the proliferation of weeds. 

A professionally mowed lawn typically ranges in price from $30 to $65. However, those with expansive properties should be prepared for the costs to escalate, potentially reaching up to $650

DIY vs. Pro Cost

While doing your own sprinkler repairs can save you money on labor, professionals have specialized skills and equipment, and they frequently provide service guarantees. With the chart below, you can compare the costs of replacing a part of your sprinkler system yourself vs. hiring a professional.

Replacement PartDIY Cost Pro Cost
Sprinkler heads$2.75 to $3.35$55 to $95
Valve$13.75 to $110$69 to $320
Backflow preventer$400 to $1,450$455 to $1,660

Cost of Sprinkler System Repair by Location

Sprinkler system repair costs are affected by your location.

  • Parts: Your system’s repair will be less expensive if the parts are readily available locally rather than having to be specially ordered.
  • Labor: As the cost of living, demand for services, and provider accessibility vary, so do labor prices.
  • Soil: The soil in your yard can affect how long it takes to repair underground systems. As clay is far more challenging to dig into than sandy soil, in-ground repairs in clay may take longer and require specialized equipment, resulting in higher costs.

FAQ About Sprinkler System Repair

What Happens If You Don’t Winterize Your Sprinkler System?

Water can remain in the heads, pipes, and valves if you don’t winterize your sprinkler system. As temperatures drop below freezing, the water in the pipes freezes and expands, potentially causing structural damage in the sprinkler pipes or inside the fixtures.

How Much Does It Cost To Tune Up a Sprinkler System?

Sprinkler tune-ups usually cost $75 to $120. The size, sprinkler type, and the number of zones of your system will influence the pricing. On the other hand, keeping up with regular maintenance will save you money on future repairs.

How Long Do Sprinkler Heads Last?

Cheap sprinkler heads often last two to three years, but high-end ones typically last 10 to 15 years. On average, sprinkler heads are replaced every five years or whenever they become damaged.

How Much Does Lawn Irrigation Repair Cost Per Hour?

Lawn irrigation repair typically costs between $55 and $105 per hour. Most homeowners find themselves paying around $75 for the hourly labor. It’s important to note that these figures don’t include the cost of parts that may need replacement or fixing.

Final Thoughts 

Homeowners can perform basic sprinkler repairs and maintenance on their own, such as cleaning the heads and valves. However, a specialist is recommended for more complex repairs, such as wiring or locating and replacing a damaged pipe. If you have any doubts, consult with irrigation specialists in your area to restore your sprinkler system with minimal down time or water waste.

Note: LawnStarter may get a referral fee for matching you with contractors in your area.

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Raven Wisdom

Raven Wisdom is a screenwriter from West Texas and a proud mom of two in an autism family. Self-described as "half-feral but mostly harmless," Raven loves houseplants, a good laugh, and furry friends.