Today's Topic: 5-Minute Drip Irrigation Checkup

Posted by Becca Messreni on July 27, 2026

Irrigation Drip Heads:
The Small Parts That Protect Your Landscape

Healthy Plants. Efficient Watering. Lower Water Bills.

A drip irrigation system is one of the best ways to keep your landscape healthy while conserving water—especially here in the Southeast Valley of Phoenix. But even the best system won't perform properly if the drip emitters become clogged, damaged, or disconnected. A few minutes of inspection a couple of times each year can prevent dead plants, wasted water, and expensive replacements.

Why Drip Heads Matter

Unlike traditional sprinklers, drip irrigation delivers water slowly and directly to the root zone where plants need it most.

A properly functioning system helps:

Conserve water
Reduce evaporation
Prevent runoff
Promote healthier root systems
Lower monthly water bills
Extend the life of your landscape

Even a small leak or clogged emitter can quickly become a much larger problem.

Signs Your Drip Heads Need Attention

Your drip irrigation system may need attention if you notice:

Dead or stressed plants
Uneven plant growth
Mushy soil
Water bubbling from landscape rock
High water bills
Weeds growing around emitters
Erosion near plants

Most of these problems can be corrected quickly when caught early.

Your 5-Minute Checkup

Walk through your landscape while your irrigation system is running.

1. Look for Broken Drip Lines Inspect exposed tubing for: Cuts Cuts Animal damage Animal damage Even small leaks waste surprising amounts of water over time.
	2. Check Every Emitter Each emitter should slowly drip water. Watch for emitters that are: Completely Dry Clogged Missing Blown off the tubing Plants receiving little or no water often decline before homeowners realize there's an irrigation problem.
3. Watch for Water Geysers Water shooting several feet into the air usually means: A missing emitter Split tubing Loose fitting Broken connector These leaks can waste hundreds of gallons each month if left unrepaired.
	4. Check Around Every Plant Healthy watering should create a moist area around each plant—not puddles. Look for: Dry soil Standing water Erosion Water running across landscape rock Water collecting near hardscape These are signs the system may need adjustment.
5. Inspect the Irrigation Controller Verify: Correct date and time Proper watering schedule Seasonal adjustments No error messages Backup battery (if equipped) Many irrigation problems begin with incorrect controller settings rather than broken equipment.