How Much Does Sprinkler System Repair Cost? [2025 Data]

This article was created using automation technology and thoroughly fact-checked and edited by an Angi Editor in accordance with our AI policy.

Sprinkler system repair cost is a key concern for homeowners facing leaks, broken heads, or faulty valves. Repairs average between $135 and $414, and homeowners pay $274 on average. Costs can vary based on the type of repair, system size, and labor rates. Understanding these factors helps you budget for your sprinkler system repair cost. Let’s explore what shapes these costs and how to make smart repair decisions.

Sprinkler System Repair Cost Factors

Several factors influence what you’ll pay for sprinkler system repair. Knowing what goes into the final price helps you identify where you can save and what’s worth investing in for long-term reliability.

Type of Repair

The type of repair you need is one of the biggest drivers of sprinkler system repair cost. Some fixes, like replacing a sprinkler head, are quick and affordable. Others, like repairing a backflow preventer or fixing underground pipes, are more complex and come with higher costs. Frequency and urgency also play a role—emergency repairs may come at a premium.

Sprinkler Head Replacement or Repair

Sprinkler heads are essential for even water distribution. They’re prone to damage from lawn equipment, foot traffic, or freezing weather. Most systems need at least one head replaced or adjusted every year or two. Repair or replacement costs $60 to $90 per head, including parts and labor.

Valve Repair or Replacement

Valves control water flow to each zone and are critical for system performance. Common failures result from age, debris, or electrical issues. Many systems need valve repairs every few years. Repairing or replacing a valve costs $75 to $300, influenced by valve type and accessibility.

Pipe Leak Repair

Leaks in sprinkler pipes can waste water and damage landscaping. Underground pipes are especially vulnerable to root intrusion and shifting soil. Older systems are more likely to develop leaks. Locating and repairing a leaking pipe costs $120 to $400, depending on the length and depth of the pipe.

Controller or Timer Repair

Controllers automate your watering schedule. Electronic parts can fail due to power surges, moisture, or wear. Systems with outdated or malfunctioning controllers need repair or replacement every five to 10 years. Expect to pay $100 to $500 for controller repairs, including installation and programming.

Backflow Preventer Repair

Backflow preventers protect your home’s water supply from contamination and are required by code in many areas. These devices don’t fail often, but when they do, repairs are important for health and compliance. Repairing or replacing a backflow preventer costs $450 to $1,700, depending on the model and local code requirements.

Manifold Repair

Manifolds distribute water to different system zones. Cracking or leaks can disrupt the entire system. While not as common as head or valve repairs, manifold fixes are needed when you notice uneven watering or unexplained leaks. Repair or replacement costs range from $75 to $200 per manifold.

Zone or Wiring Issues

Electrical problems can render entire zones inoperable. Older systems or those with poor installation are more likely to experience wiring failures. Addressing wiring or zone issues costs $75 to $200 per zone, with urgency depending on how much of your landscaping is affected.

Type of Sprinkler System

Repair costs differ based on whether your sprinkler system type is above-ground or in-ground and how advanced the controls are. In-ground and smart systems tend to cost more to fix, while above-ground or manual systems are easier and less expensive to repair.

Brand

The brand of your sprinkler system can impact repair costs. Some brands use proprietary parts or require specialized technicians, which can make repairs more expensive or harder to schedule. Popular brands like Rain Bird, Hunter, and Toro have widely available replacement parts and competitive repair pricing. Less common brands might require custom ordering, increasing both cost and wait time.

Size

The larger your sprinkler system, the more zones and components there are to maintain. More zones mean more potential points of failure and additional labor. Repairs for systems with varying coverage are priced accordingly.

Materials

Quality of materials used in your sprinkler system matters for both cost and longevity. Plastic components are less expensive but can wear out faster, while brass or metal parts cost more upfront but last longer. Pipe material also affects repair costs, with PVC and poly pipe being common choices.

Warranties

Warranties can help lower your out-of-pocket sprinkler system repair cost. Manufacturer warranties cover parts for a set period, while installer warranties may cover labor. Repairs to covered components may be free or discounted, so it’s worth checking your system’s paperwork before authorizing repairs. If your warranty has expired, you’ll pay the full repair cost.

Maintenance Plans

Many lawn irrigation pros offer maintenance plans that include seasonal inspections, winterization, and occasional tune-ups. These plans cost extra upfront but can save money by preventing major breakdowns and catching small issues early. Over time, regular maintenance can lower your total repair costs and extend system life.

Labor

Sprinkler system repair professionals include irrigation specialists, landscapers, and sometimes plumbers. Labor costs range from $50 to $100 per hour, depending on experience and certification. Highly skilled landscapers or irrigation specialists may charge more but offer better troubleshooting and warranty compliance. Labor rates also vary by region and may increase for emergency or after-hours repairs.

Location

Where you live affects the price of sprinkler system repair. Urban areas have higher labor and material costs, while rural locations might have fewer contractors, impacting availability and pricing. Repairs in hard-to-reach areas of your yard, like under decks or in landscaped beds, can also cost more. Some municipalities require permits or inspections for certain repairs, adding to your expenses.

Additional Repairs or Services

Some sprinkler repairs require extra services. Common add-ons include winterization, spring start-up, pressure testing, system upgrades, or landscaping restoration after a major repair. These services are sometimes recommended to prevent future problems or return your lawn to its original condition after digging.

Sprinkler System Repair vs. Replace

Knowing when to repair or replace your sprinkler system can save you money and hassle. If your system is less than 10 years old and repairs are minor, fixing individual components is the best choice. However, if you’re facing frequent breakdowns, major leaks, or obsolete parts, replacement may be more cost-effective.

Compare your repair estimate to the cost of a new sprinkler system, which ranges from $1,640 to $3,580 on average for a complete replacement. If repair costs exceed 50% of replacement, experts recommend installing a new system. Repairing can be faster and less disruptive, but replacing ensures up-to-date technology and fewer issues in the future. Consider your system’s age, warranty status, and repair history when deciding.

DIY Sprinkler System Repair vs. Hiring a Pro

DIY repairs appeal to many homeowners, especially for simple fixes like replacing a sprinkler head or adjusting a timer. DIY costs include parts and possibly tool rentals. While you save on labor, mistakes can lead to leaks, voided warranties, or more expensive repairs later.

Common DIY repairs require basic tools and some know-how. More complex jobs, like fixing underground leaks or electrical issues, require professional training. Hiring a sprinkler system repair pro costs more upfront, but you benefit from expertise, code compliance, and warranty protection. If you’re not confident in your skills or the repair involves electrical or plumbing work, it’s best to call a professional.

Tips to Reduce Sprinkler System Repair Cost

Use these tips to keep your sprinkler system repair budget-friendly:

• Schedule regular maintenance to catch issues early.

• Compare quotes from multiple local pros.

• Use quality parts to avoid frequent repairs.

• Address minor issues before they become major.

• Check for warranty coverage before paying out of pocket.

• Consider a maintenance plan for long-term savings.

• Learn basic troubleshooting to handle simple repairs yourself.

How Angi Gets Its Cost Data

Home is the most important place on earth, which is why Angi has helped more than 150 million homeowners transform their houses into homes they adore. To help homeowners with their next project, Angi provides readers with the most accurate cost data and upholds strict editorial standards. We’ve surveyed over 30,000 real Angi customers about their project costs to develop the pricing data you see, so you can make the best decisions for you and your home. We pair this data with research from reputable sources, including the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, academic journals, market studies, and interviews with industry experts—all to ensure our prices reflect real-world projects. 

Want to help us improve our cost data? Send us a recent project quote to [email protected]. Quotes and personal information will not be shared publicly.