Troubleshooting Your Irrigation System: Why It Won’t Turn On & How to Fix It

If your irrigation system won’t turn on, it can be frustrating—especially during the hot Florida summers when your lawn and landscaping need regular watering. At X Scape Outdoors Irrigation Repair in Jacksonville, FL, we often get calls from homeowners saying “my sprinkler system isn’t coming on” or “my irrigation won’t start at all.”

The good news? Many times the issue is something simple that can be checked before calling for professional irrigation repair. Below is a step-by-step troubleshooting checklist to help you figure out why your sprinkler system isn’t running.

Irrigation Troubleshooting Checklist

✅ 1. Check the Controller (Irrigation Timer)

• Make sure the irrigation controller is plugged in and has power.

• Verify that the display is on and the time/date is set correctly.

• Look for any error codes or a flashing display that could indicate a problem.

• Try running a manual cycle to see if the system starts.

✅ 2. Inspect the Power Source

• Check the breaker box to make sure the irrigation breaker hasn’t tripped.

• If your system is connected to a GFCI outlet, press the reset button.

• Ensure no extension cords or loose connections are interfering with power.

✅ 3. Look at the Rain Sensor

Many systems in Florida have rain sensors that prevent overwatering. If your sensor is faulty or stuck in the “wet” position, it can keep your sprinklers from running.

• Check to see if the rain sensor is dry.

• If it’s old or broken, it may need replacement.

✅ 4. Test the Irrigation Valves

• Go to your valve box and listen for a click when the controller tries to activate a zone.

• If there’s no sound, the solenoid may be bad or there may be a wiring issue.

• You can try manually opening a valve to see if water flows.

  
  

✅ 5. Check for Water Supply Issues

• Make sure the main irrigation shutoff valve is open.

• Look for leaks, broken pipes, or signs of low water pressure.

• If your system runs off a well pump, check if the pump is working.

✅ 6. Wiring Problems

Over time, wires in your irrigation system can corrode, break, or get cut.

• Inspect wiring connections in the controller and valve boxes.

• Look for exposed or damaged wires.

• If unsure, it may be time to call a professional with a valve locator and wire tracer.

When to Call a Professional

If you’ve gone through this checklist and your sprinkler system still won’t turn on, it’s best to call a licensed irrigation repair specialist. At X Scape Outdoors Irrigation Repair, we diagnose and fix:

• Controller and timer failures

• Bad irrigation valves

• Broken sprinkler heads

• Wiring issues

• Water supply and pump problems

We proudly serve Jacksonville, Orange Park, Fleming Island, Middleburg, and surrounding areas with fast and reliable irrigation service.