Do Plumbers Work on Irrigation repairs? A Texas Homeowner’s Guide

When your sprinkler heads are gushing water or a hidden pipe has cracked underground, your first instinct might be to call a plumber. But is that really the right move? If you’ve ever wondered whether plumbers handle outdoor water systems, you’re not alone. This guide explores who’s best suited for the job—especially when it comes to irrigation repairs in Texas, where climate extremes and soil shifts can cause unique challenges.

Understanding the Scope of a Plumber’s Work

Plumbers are licensed professionals trained to install, maintain, and repair water, sewage, and drainage systems inside and around buildings. Their bread and butter includes fixing leaky faucets, unclogging toilets, replacing water heaters, and ensuring your kitchen and bathroom plumbing systems operate smoothly.

While their expertise with water systems is extensive, most plumbers don’t specialize in irrigation systems. That’s because residential irrigation—like sprinkler systems and drip lines—falls under a different category entirely. It involves different tools, design principles, and even licensing requirements in some states, including Texas.

What Are Irrigation Systems?

An irrigation system distributes water to your lawn, plants, or crops using a network of underground pipes, valves, and emitters. In residential properties, the most common systems are:

• Sprinkler Systems – Timed, above-ground or pop-up heads that water the lawn.

• Drip Irrigation – Tubing that delivers water directly to the roots of plants.

• Soaker Hoses – Porous hoses that slowly release water along their length.

These systems require specific knowledge about water pressure zones, timers, and soil types. A faulty system can lead to overwatering, wasted utility costs, or even damage to your landscaping.

So, Do Plumbers Fix Irrigation Systems?

The answer is: not typically.

While some plumbers might have crossover skills, most irrigation repairs are handled by licensed irrigation specialists or landscape professionals. These experts are specifically trained to diagnose outdoor watering issues, detect underground leaks, and optimize system performance for regional climate conditions—something particularly important for irrigation repairs in Texas, where dry spells and sudden rainstorms put outdoor systems to the test.

The Importance of Working with an Irrigation Specialist

Let’s say you notice a few sprinkler heads are misfiring, or there’s water pooling in your yard. You might be tempted to call your regular plumber. But while they can assess water flow and pressure issues, they may lack the technical expertise to:

• Program your irrigation controller for efficient watering cycles

• Replace faulty solenoid valves or rain sensors

• Diagnose underground pipe leaks without damaging your yard

• Ensure your system complies with backflow prevention laws

An irrigation specialist will not only fix the problem—they’ll make sure your entire system runs more efficiently moving forward. That’s especially important in Texas, where water conservation is becoming increasingly critical due to frequent drought conditions.

Signs You Need Irrigation Repair (And Who to Call)

Knowing when to call in a pro can save you time, money, and unnecessary damage to your property. Here are some clear signs your irrigation system might need professional help:

1. Uneven Watering

Dry patches in your lawn or overwatered spots could point to misaligned sprinkler heads or poor zone calibration.

Call an irrigation specialist: They can readjust heads, reposition zones, and improve coverage without wasting water.

2. Soaring Water Bills

A sudden spike in water use without changes to your indoor habits might signal a hidden irrigation leak.

Call an irrigation specialist: Using advanced diagnostic tools, they can pinpoint underground breaks or faulty valves.

3. Sprinkler Heads Not Popping Up

This could be due to low pressure, clogging, or broken heads.

Call an irrigation specialist: They'll replace broken parts and check for underlying pressure issues. While a plumber might be able to help with pressure, they may not carry the right parts for your specific system.

4. Low Water Pressure Across Your Yard

This could involve your main irrigation line or backflow device.

Call a plumber if the issue affects both your indoor and outdoor systems. But if it’s isolated to your irrigation setup, it’s best handled by an irrigator.

Why Texas Homeowners Face Unique Irrigation Challenges

Texas has over 10 distinct climate zones, from humid Gulf Coast regions to dry West Texas plains. These extreme differences impact how irrigation systems function—and how they should be repaired or installed.

• Soil Movement: Expansive clay soils common in North and Central Texas expand and contract with moisture, potentially breaking pipes.

• Water Restrictions: During droughts, local municipalities often enforce watering schedules. A well-maintained irrigation system can prevent overuse penalties.

• Hard Water: Mineral-heavy water in many parts of Texas can clog emitters and valves over time.

That’s why hiring a professional familiar with irrigation and repairs Texas homes require makes a huge difference in long-term efficiency.

When Plumbing and Irrigation Overlap

There are some cases where a plumber and an irrigation expert may need to collaborate. For instance:

• Backflow Prevention Devices: These prevent contaminated water from flowing into your drinking supply. In Texas, annual testing is required. A licensed plumber may need to install or certify this device.

• Main Line Installations: If your irrigation system requires a new tap into the water main, that’s a plumber’s job.

• Flooding From Shared Systems: In some homes, plumbing and irrigation pipes are closely integrated. A misdiagnosed issue in one system may actually stem from the other.

In these cases, hiring a full-service company that offers both plumbing and irrigation expertise—or has a reliable referral network—can help streamline your repair process.

DIY vs. Hiring a Pro: What’s Worth Your Time?

If you’re handy, some minor irrigation repairs can be DIY-friendly:

• Replacing broken sprinkler heads

• Cleaning out clogged nozzles

• Reprogramming your controller

However, anything involving electrical components (like solenoids), underground piping, or system-wide malfunctions should be left to certified professionals. Texas laws require permits and licensed contractors for many irrigation jobs—cutting corners could cost you more in the long run.

Plumbers play a critical role in maintaining your home’s water systems—but when it comes to outdoor watering, they aren’t always the right fit. For anything beyond a backflow device or shared pipe issue, you’re better off with a licensed irrigation professional who understands the local soil, climate, and regulations.