How Your Sprinkler System Works
Understanding the basics helps you maintain your system, spot problems early, and communicate with your service technician.
The Controller (Timer)
The irrigation controller is the brain. It tells each zone when to turn on, how long to run, and which days. Smart controllers adjust automatically based on weather.
Valves
Electric valves control water flow to each zone. When a valve fails, the zone may not turn on — or may not shut off. See our troubleshooting guide for valve issues.
Backflow Preventer
The backflow prevention device is a critical safety component preventing irrigation water from entering your drinking supply. Texas requires annual testing.
Pipes and Fittings
PVC pipes carry water from your main line to valves and heads. Pipe breaks are one of the most common sprinkler repair calls.
Sprinkler Heads
Types include pop-up spray heads for small areas, rotors for large lawns, and drip emitters for beds. Different types should never be mixed on one zone.
Rain Sensors
Rain and freeze sensors override the controller during rain or freezing — a simple addition that saves thousands of gallons yearly.
Zones
Your system is divided into zones, each watering a different area. Zones let you customize watering for sun vs. shade, lawn vs. beds, and different soil types. Proper zone design is critical for water efficiency.