Irrigation Leaks Are Draining Your Wallet: Here’s How to Spot Them Fast
Irrigation leaks hide in places most homeowners never think to check. Because the pipes run underground, a leak can waste thousands of gallons before you notice anything wrong. And in California, every drop matters. While irrigation systems make life easier, they also create one of the most common sources of hidden water loss. Today, we’ll break down the signs of an irrigation leak, why they form, and how Pegasus Leak Detection finds the exact source before the damage gets out of hand.
Why Irrigation Leaks Cost So Much So Fast
Underground irrigation systems run on pressure. When a leak forms, water escapes nonstop. That pressure forces more water out, and the leak grows quickly. Since everything is buried, homeowners rarely notice the problem until the bill arrives. That’s why irrigation leaks often become the most expensive leaks on a property. They waste water, damage landscaping, and push utility bills through the roof.
Common Signs You Have an Irrigation Leak
Although irrigation leaks hide well, they still leave clues. Some show up immediately. Others take a little time. Watch for any of these:
1. Wet or Mushy Spots in Your Yard
If certain areas stay wet even when the system is off, water is leaking underground. Mushy or sinking soil usually confirms a steady leak beneath the surface.
2. Uneven or Overgrown Grass
Plants near leaks receive far more water than intended. They grow faster, look greener, and often stand out from the rest of the yard.
3. Low Water Pressure in Certain Zones
A break or crack lowers pressure in that zone. Some sprinklers may sputter or fail to rise.
4. Constant Dripping from Sprinkler Heads
Sprinkler heads should stop releasing water once the system shuts off. If they keep dripping, a valve or pipe may be leaking.
5. A Big Unexpected Jump in Your Water Bill
Outdoor leaks waste incredible amounts of water. Many homeowners first notice the leak when their utility bill doubles or even triples.
What Causes Irrigation Leaks?
Irrigation systems break for several reasons. Some are easy to avoid. Others come from natural wear and tear. The most common causes include:
Tree Roots
Roots push against irrigation lines, crack fittings, and collapse pipes.
Shifting Soil
Seasonal changes move the ground and stress underground pipes.
Old or Brittle PVC
PVC weakens over time. Sun exposure and temperature swings speed up the aging process.
Improper Installation
If the system was installed too shallow or with poor materials, leaks form much sooner.
High Water Pressure
Pressure that’s too high causes fittings and lines to burst.
How Pegasus Leak Detection Finds Irrigation Leaks Quickly
Finding an irrigation leak isn’t guesswork. Pegasus uses advanced tools to locate the exact point of failure without tearing up your yard.
Acoustic Leak Detection
We listen for the sound of water escaping underground.
Pressure Testing
This helps us identify which zone is leaking and how severe it is.
Line Tracing Technology
We map out your irrigation lines to pinpoint hidden breaks.
Moisture Detection Tools
These show underground saturation patterns that lead to the source.
This process reveals the precise location so your repair stays simple and affordable. No unnecessary digging. No wasted time.
Why Ignoring an Irrigation Leak Creates Bigger Problems
Many homeowners assume outdoor leaks aren’t a big deal. Yet they create a long list of expensive issues:
- Higher water bills (Check Out Our Water Loss Calculator)
- Soil erosion
- Foundation moisture problems
- Mold along exterior walls
- Root intrusion
- Dead or flooded landscaping
- Damage to walkways and patios
The longer the leak runs, the worse the yard becomes. And once soil shifts, repairs get more complicated.
Protect Your Home and Landscaping With Early Detection
Your irrigation system should make life easier—not more expensive. When something feels off, even slightly, take it seriously. Early detection prevents huge water bills and major damage.
Pegasus Leak Detection specializes in locating irrigation leaks fast. We give you clear answers and direct your plumber or landscaper toward the exact repair point.
If your yard looks suspicious or your bill jumped, schedule an irrigation leak inspection today. Stop the water loss before it gets worse.
