How do you lift a Rainbird sprinkler head?

Lifting a Rainbird sprinkler head is a relatively straightforward process that can be done in just a few steps. Rainbird sprinkler heads are designed to pop up above the ground when water pressure is applied, spraying water over a set area. When it’s time to service or replace a sprinkler head, you need to lift it up so you can access the sprinkler body underneath the ground.

Why Would You Need to Lift a Sprinkler Head?

There are a few key reasons you may need to lift up a Rainbird or other sprinkler head in your lawn or garden:

• To access the sprinkler body for repairs or replacement – Over time, sprinklers may break or become clogged with dirt and need service.
• To adjust the spraying pattern – The nozzle on the sprinkler head can be adjusted to control the spray distance and angle.
• To check for leaks – You may need to inspect connections and o-rings for leaks.
• To avoid damage when mowing – Lifting sprinkler heads prevents hitting them with the lawnmower.
• For lawn maintenance like aerating – Sprinkler heads need to be lifted so core aeration equipment doesn’t damage them.
• To blow out sprinkler lines in winter – Sprinkler systems in cold climates need to be winterized by having air blown through to remove water.

Lifting each sprinkler head gives you access to perform any of these maintenance tasks.

How to Lift a Pop-Up Sprinkler Head

Here is a step-by-step guide to safely lift a pop-up sprinkler head:

1. Turn off the water supply to the sprinkler system. Locate the shut-off valve for the sprinkler line and turn the water off completely.
2. Remove the plastic cap on top of the sprinkler case (it may just pull straight up). Underneath you’ll see a screw to allow lifting.
3. Use a sprinkler tool or small screwdriver to turn the screw about 5-6 full turns counterclockwise. This retracts the internal spring so the sprinkler can be lifted.
4. Gently pull up on the sprinkler head to raise it above ground level. The whole sprinkler assembly will lift up.
5. Perform any maintenance or make adjustments as needed while the head is lifted.
6. Push the sprinkler head back into place when finished. The internal spring will hold it in the popped up position.
7. Turn the screw clockwise 5-6 full turns to re-engage the spring so the head will pop up when the water is turned back on.
8. Replace the plastic cap over the screw to complete the process.
9. Turn the sprinkler line’s water back on. The system is now ready to use again.

Tips for Lifting a Sprinkler Head

Follow these tips when lifting and working on your pop-up sprinkler heads:

• Use the appropriate sprinkler head tool or a screwdriver that fits the screw correctly to avoid stripping it.
• Lifting the head slowly prevents damaging the spring inside.
• Inspect o-rings and seals for wear and damage. Replace if deteriorated.
• Clear any dirt or debris out of the sprinkler body while lifted.
• Consult your Rainbird manuals for the exact steps for your sprinkler model.
• Ensure the screwdriver turns easily before forcefully turning to prevent damage.
• Have replacement sprinkler heads on hand in case repairs are needed.
• Take pictures of how the parts are assembled before taking them apart.

With the right technique and a gentle touch, you can lift any pop-up sprinkler head when maintenance calls for it. Just remember to shut off the water first!

Special Instructions for Lifting Rotary Sprinkler Heads

Rotary sprinklers are gear-driven heads that rotate while spraying water over a set area. Here are some tips for lifting rotary sprinkler heads:

• Locate the Allen screw(s) on the side or top of the sprinkler case.
• Use the appropriately sized Allen wrench to loosen the screw(s) about 5 turns.
• The sprinkler head and upper body will now lift up for servicing.
• When re-assembling, take care to align the gear assembly correctly.
• Hand tighten Allen screws when finished, being careful not to overtighten.
• Consider applying thread sealant to prevent loose screws down the road.

Rotary sprinkler heads have more complex parts than pop-up heads. Take your time when lifting and working on them. Refer to the manufacturer’s instructions if unsure of the process.

Servicing an Underground Rainbird Sprinkler Valve

While lifting the sprinkler heads allows access to the above-ground components, you still can’t reach the underground control valve that operates a set of sprinklers on that line. To access and service the valve:

1. Locate the valve box lid. It will be a round plastic lid labelled “Irrigation” or “Rainbird”.
2. Use a screwdriver to pry open the valve box lid. The valve assembly will be sitting at the bottom.
3. Turn the water off at the main shut-off, then turn on the valve manually to relieve pressure.
4. Disconnect any control wires from the top of the valve.
5. Unscrew the bolts holding the valve in place and lift it out of the box.
6. Inspect the valve and clean or replace components as needed.
7. Reinstall the valve, reconnect wires, close the valve box, and turn the water back on.
8. Test operation of the sprinklers on that zone.

Servicing the valves prevents problems like valves sticking open or closed. While not as frequent as lifting sprinkler heads, it’s still important valve maintenance for a healthy system.

How to Reset a Rainbird Sprinkler Valve

If a Rainbird irrigation valve is not opening properly to allow water flow, you may need to reset the diaphragm inside it. Here’s how:

1. Shut off the water to the valve and relieve pressure.
2. Remove the valve’s solenoid to access the diaphragm.
3. Lift out the diaphragm and clear any debris underneath it.
4. Set the diaphragm in place with the lip properly seated.
5. Reinstall the solenoid.
6. Turn the water back on slowly and test operation.

Resetting the diaphragm often gets stuck valves functioning again. For stubborn valve problems, replacing the diaphragm or entire valve may be needed.

Troubleshooting Sprinkler Heads Not Popping Up

It can be frustrating when your sprinkler heads won’t pop up as expected. Here are some steps to diagnose the problem:

1. Check for proper water pressure – Heads may not extend with low pressure. Inspect supply lines and valves.
2. Rule out closed valves – Open valves manually to ensure water is flowing to the heads.
3. Clean clogged nozzles – Debris, dirt and mineral buildup can prevent spray.
4. Replace damaged heads – Broken springs, screws or cases will prevent operation.
5. Adjust as needed – Lifting the heads to peek inside can reveal issues.
6. Flush entire system – Severe debris may require a full flush to restore normal operation.

Doing some systematic troubleshooting whenheads malfunction will get your sprinkler system covering your landscape properly again.

Conclusion

Lifting and servicing pop-up sprinkler heads is essential seasonal maintenance for keeping irrigation systems functioning properly. Learning the right techniques for your sprinkler models takes the apprehension out of working on them. With the water off and the right tools, you can handle any sprinkler head task. Taking preventative measures like lifting heads before mowing, cleaning nozzles, and flushing lines will also minimize operational problems down the road.