Common Irrigation Problems in Seattle (And How to Fix Them)

Let’s talk about something a lot of Seattle homeowners run into — irrigation headaches. Even though we’re famous for rain, proper irrigation is still critical if you want your plants to thrive year-round.

Here are the most common irrigation problems I see all over Seattle — from soggy lawns to thirsty garden beds — and what you can do to fix them.

1. Overwatering in the Rainy Season

Seattle’s fall and winter rains mean your irrigation system might be running when it doesn’t need to — wasting water, money, and sometimes killing plants.

Fix:

Install a rain sensor or smart irrigation controller that automatically skips watering when it’s wet.

Manually shut off irrigation from late October through March — most landscapes don’t need help during this time.

2. Underwatering in Summer

Summers in Seattle are drier than people think — especially July through early September. Without supplemental watering, lawns go dormant and new plants suffer.

Fix:

Run deep but infrequent watering sessions: 2–3 times a week for lawns, early morning is best.

Use drip irrigation or soaker hoses in garden beds to save water and deliver it right to the roots.

Overgrown lawn

3. Leaky or Broken Sprinkler Heads

Busted heads and cracked pipes waste a ton of water — and often leave brown spots or puddles behind.

Fix:

Do a monthly check: turn on your system and walk the property. Look for geysers, soggy patches, or weak spray patterns.

Replace broken heads and flush lines at the start of every season.

4. Poor Spray Coverage

It’s super common to find areas that get too much water and others that get none at all. Slopes, odd-shaped lawns, and plant growth can all interfere.

Fix:

Adjust the sprinkler heads so they’re not spraying sidewalks, fences, or your neighbor’s yard.

Add or reposition heads for even coverage, especially around new hardscaping or growing shrubs.

5. Clogged Nozzles or Emitters

Seattle’s sediment-heavy water can clog your sprinkler heads and drip emitters over time, especially after winter.

Fix:

Clean nozzles once or twice a season with a toothbrush or compressed air.

Soak drip emitters in vinegar to remove mineral buildup.

6. Runoff on Slopes

If your property has hills or sloped beds (which a lot of Seattle homes do), water can just roll off before it soaks in.

Fix:

Use short-cycle watering: water for 5 minutes, let it soak, then water again.

Consider switching to drip irrigation or adding mulch to help retain moisture.

7. Not Adjusting for the Season

Irrigation that’s set for July won’t work in October. Without adjustments, you’re either overwatering or stressing your plants.

Fix:

Reprogram your timer at least 4 times a year based on weather.

Use weather-based smart controllers that adjust automatically.

Bonus Tip: Mulch + Compost = Happy Soil

Adding mulch and compost improves your soil’s ability to hold water and keeps your plants strong even during droughts. It’s an easy, natural way to support your irrigation system and reduce your watering needs.

Need Help?

If your yard’s giving you trouble — soggy spots, dry patches, or just a confusing mess of pipes — don’t worry. I can take a look, fix what’s broken, and help get things running smooth again.

Let’s keep your yard healthy the Seattle way — smart, sustainable, and water-wise.
Reach out anytime for a seasonal irrigation check-up or complete tune-up service.

Stay green,
Mr. Lee