Our leak detection add-on service focuses primarily on identifying valve leaks in your irrigation system. Pricing is provided during scheduling based on your system's complexity. Early detection can save you hundreds of dollars in water bills and prevent costly property damage. Schedule online for current pricing.
Why Leak Detection Matters for Your Denver Irrigation System
Undetected leaks in your sprinkler system can waste thousands of gallons of water, damage your landscape, and lead to expensive repairs. In Denver’s semi-arid climate, water conservation isn’t just environmentally responsible—it directly impacts your utility bills.
Denver Water and other Front Range providers have some of the highest water rates in the region. A single stuck valve can add hundreds of dollars to your monthly bill before you even notice the problem.
Common Signs You May Have an Irrigation Leak
- Unexplained increases in your water bill even when usage habits haven’t changed
- Soggy or saturated areas in your lawn when sprinklers haven’t run recently
- Water pooling around valve boxes or near sprinkler heads
- Sprinkler heads that continue to drip or weep after the system shuts off
- Low water pressure in one or more zones
- Unusually green patches of grass compared to surrounding areas
- Sinkholes or depressions forming in your lawn
- Visible water flow when the irrigation system is off
Our Leak Detection Process
Valve Leak Assessment
Our primary leak detection service focuses on valve-related issues, which are among the most common sources of irrigation system leaks in Denver-area homes. We inspect:
- Valve diaphragms for wear, debris, and deterioration
- Solenoid connections for proper sealing
- Valve body integrity checking for cracks or damage
- O-rings and seals throughout the valve assembly
- Bleed screws and flow controls for proper closure
Visual System Inspection
During our assessment, we also examine:
- Exposed supply lines for visible damage
- Valve box conditions and water accumulation
- Sprinkler head connections and risers
- Backflow preventer condition
What Our Service Includes
- Systematic zone-by-zone pressure testing
- Valve box inspection and assessment
- Identification of leak sources and locations
- Detailed findings report
- Repair recommendations and estimates
Types of Irrigation Leaks We Detect
Valve Leaks
Valve leaks are the most common issue we encounter in Denver-area irrigation systems. They occur when:
- The diaphragm becomes worn or contaminated with debris
- Seals and o-rings deteriorate over time
- The valve body cracks from age or freeze damage
- Solenoids fail to close completely
Mainline Leaks
Mainline leaks occur in the pressurized pipe running from your water source to the valves. These can result from:
- Ground settling and shifting (common in Colorado’s clay soils)
- Root intrusion
- Freeze damage from inadequate winterization
- Age-related PVC brittleness
- Previous excavation damage
Lateral Line Leaks
Lateral lines run from the valves to individual sprinkler heads. While these are beyond the scope of our standard leak detection service, we can identify symptoms that suggest lateral line issues.
Head-to-Pipe Connection Leaks
Leaks at sprinkler head connections are often caused by:
- Loose or damaged fittings
- Cracked swing joints or funny pipe
- Impact damage from mowers or foot traffic
Denver Neighborhood Considerations
Different Denver neighborhoods face unique irrigation challenges based on soil conditions, water pressure, and system age:
Cherry Creek & Wash Park: Older homes often have aging PVC that becomes brittle. Higher property values mean leak damage can be especially costly.
Highlands & LoHi: Mixed soil conditions and varying water pressure require careful system assessment.
Aurora & Centennial: Newer developments may have builder-grade components that fail prematurely.
Lakewood & Arvada: Clay-heavy soils put extra stress on underground pipes and fittings.
Important Information About Leak Detection
Service Scope
Our leak detection add-on service focuses primarily on valve leaks. Leaks in lateral lines may exist and are beyond the scope of the standard leak detection service we offer.
Homeowner Responsibilities
Please take time to review your irrigation system after we depart. Check inside the valve box periodically—ask us and we’ll teach you how to open them. While exposed supply line leaks are typically visible, underground leaks may not be detectable during our brief visit.
Our Recommendation
We strongly recommend installing leak detection devices in your crawlspace or basement and testing them quarterly. These devices can alert you to leaks before they cause significant damage.
Preventing Future Leaks
Regular Maintenance
- Schedule annual sprinkler startups and winterization blowouts
- Inspect valve boxes monthly during irrigation season
- Monitor your water bill for unexpected increases
- Address minor issues before they become major problems
System Upgrades to Consider
- Smart irrigation controllers with leak detection features
- Flow sensors that alert you to unusual water usage
- Pressure regulators to protect aging pipes from pressure spikes
- Upgraded valve components when repairs are needed
Winterization is Critical
Many leaks we discover stem from inadequate winterization. Water left in pipes can freeze, expand, and crack even underground components. Our professional sprinkler blowout service removes water from your entire system to prevent freeze damage.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if my sprinkler system is leaking underground?
Look for these warning signs: unexplained water bill increases, soggy areas when sprinklers haven’t run, water pooling near valve boxes, sprinkler heads that continue dripping after shutoff, low pressure in certain zones, and unusually green patches of grass.
Can you find leaks in pipes underground?
Our standard service focuses on valve leaks and visible components. Underground pipe leaks in lateral lines require specialized equipment and excavation. We can identify symptoms suggesting lateral line issues and recommend next steps.
Why is water still coming out of my sprinkler heads after the system turns off?
This typically indicates a valve that isn’t closing completely. Common causes include debris in the diaphragm, a worn diaphragm, damaged seals, or a faulty solenoid. Our leak detection service can pinpoint the exact cause.
How much water can a leaking sprinkler system waste?
Even a small leak can waste 6,000+ gallons per month. A stuck valve or significant mainline leak can waste tens of thousands of gallons, dramatically increasing your water bill and potentially causing property damage.
Should I install a leak detection device?
Yes, we strongly recommend installing leak detection devices in your crawlspace or basement where your main water line enters. Test them quarterly to ensure they’re functioning properly.
How often should I have my irrigation system inspected?
We recommend a professional inspection at least twice yearly—during spring startup and before winterization. Monthly visual checks of valve boxes during the irrigation season can help catch problems early.
Schedule Your Leak Detection Service
Don’t let hidden leaks waste water and money. Our experienced technicians can help identify valve leaks and other irrigation issues before they become costly problems.
Ready to schedule? Use our online scheduling system to book your leak detection service. All pricing is available within the scheduler.