Frequently Asked Questions
How long do drainage systems last?
Chris Patti2026-01-15T16:10:51-05:00When properly installed, drainage systems can last many years, depending on soil conditions, water volume, and maintenance.
I want to run my system three times per week. How long should each zone run?
Chris Patti2026-01-15T16:15:25-05:00Individual circumstances will vary, but as a general rule, depending on the season, spray heads should run between 5 - 15 minutes, rotors should run 15 - 30 minutes, and drip lines should run 30 minutes to 1 hour.
How do I turn the water off to my system in case of an emergency?
Devin Bergin2026-01-15T16:15:53-05:00Find your backflow assembly. Above ground assemblies will be in a large, green/tan, rectangular box, more than likely located near your home or water meter. Below ground assemblies will have a large, green, rectangular lid. Once found, turn either handle on assembly to the right to turn water off. green, rectangular lid. Once found, turn either handle on assembly to the right to turn water off. Contact your local water department if you are unable to turn off water.
What drainage services do you offer?
Chris Patti2026-01-15T16:14:17-05:00We install and service a variety of drainage solutions, including:
- Downspout drainage and extensions
- Catch basins
- Area drains
- Yard and landscape drains
- Pop-up emitters
- Underground piping systems
Why do my lights turn off randomly at night?
Chris Patti2026-01-15T16:21:20-05:00Possible causes include:
- Overloaded transformer
- Timer or photocell malfunction
- Loose wiring connections
A professional inspection ensures safe and reliable operation.
What do I do if the water leak is between the water meter and backflow assembly?
Devin Bergin2026-01-15T16:17:06-05:00In this situation, the only solution is to turn the water off at the irrigation meter.
Can weather affect my low voltage lighting system?
Chris Patti2026-01-15T16:22:26-05:00Extreme weather, heavy rain, and freezing temperatures can sometimes affect connections or fixtures, especially if the system is older or was improperly installed.
Why is my pop-up emitter not popping up?
Chris Patti2026-01-15T16:10:18-05:00This is often caused by:
- Debris buildup
- Blocked outlet
- Crushed or damaged pipe
Cleaning or repairing the outlet usually resolves the issue.
How do I know if I need drainage work?
Chris Patti2026-01-15T16:14:02-05:00Common signs you may need drainage improvements include:
- Standing water in the yard
- Water pooling near the foundation
- Soil erosion or washed-out mulch
- Soggy lawn areas that never dry
- Water stains or moisture in crawl spaces or basements
What do I do if my system is running when it isn’t supposed to?
Devin Bergin2026-01-15T16:17:20-05:00First, check to see if the current date & time is correct. Second, check to see if there is more than one start time on any of your running programs.
Why does my catch basin overflow?
Chris Patti2026-01-15T16:09:13-05:00Overflowing catch basins are usually caused by:
- Debris buildup (leaves, mulch, sediment)
- Insufficient pipe size
- Heavy rainfall exceeding system capacity
Regular maintenance helps prevent this.
Where does the water drain to?
Chris Patti2026-01-15T16:11:52-05:00Drainage systems discharge water to approved locations such as:
- Pop-up emitters
- Natural drainage areas
- Swales
- Street or approved municipal outlets (where permitted)
All systems are designed to follow local codes and site conditions.
What do I do if my controller shows no display?
Devin Bergin2026-01-15T16:17:01-05:00Check to see if you have power going to the controller. If not, check circuit breakers & GFI outlets in your home to see if they have been tripped. If you have power, but no display, unplug controller for 2 minutes then plug back in. If still no display, see if there is a reset button on your controller - hold for 10 seconds. Still no display? Controller may have gone bad.
What should I do before digging in my yard?
Chris Patti2026-01-15T16:08:55-05:00Always have utilities marked before digging. If drainage or irrigation lines may be present, it’s best to contact a professional to avoid damage.
Why do bulbs burn out frequently?
Chris Patti2026-01-15T16:21:41-05:00Frequent bulb failure may be caused by:
- Over-voltage
- Poor-quality bulbs
- Moisture entering the fixture
Using quality LED bulbs and proper installation helps extend bulb life.
Why are some lights working while others are not?
Chris Patti2026-01-15T16:18:45-05:00This is usually caused by:
- A loose or corroded wire connection
- Damaged underground wiring
- A failed bulb or fixture
A technician can quickly locate and repair the issue.
Can drainage lines clog?
Chris Patti2026-01-15T16:09:38-05:00Yes. Drainage lines can clog over time due to sediment, roots, or debris, especially without routine maintenance.
Why did my lights stop working after landscaping or digging?
Chris Patti2026-01-15T16:22:05-05:00Underground wiring can be damaged during:
- Mulching
- Planting
- Edging
- Drainage or irrigation work
We recommend having lighting lines marked before any digging.
What can I do to protect my controller from lightning damage?
Devin Bergin2026-01-15T16:16:45-05:00The best way is to ensure that the controller is grounded properly. Unfortunately, like all electrical devices, controllers are susceptible to lightning strikes and little can be done to prevent damage.
What is a drainage system?
Chris Patti2026-02-06T14:02:42-05:00A drainage system is designed to collect and redirect excess water away from your home, landscape, and hardscapes to prevent pooling, erosion, and water damage.
Why won’t my landscape lights turn on?
Chris Patti2026-01-15T16:19:14-05:00Common causes include:
- Tripped GFCI outlet or breaker
- Timer or photocell set incorrectly
- Transformer turned off or unplugged
- Loose wire connections
- Break in the wire
If these items check out and the lights still don’t work, professional service may be needed.
Do drainage systems require maintenance?
Chris Patti2026-01-15T16:11:08-05:00Yes. Periodic maintenance such as cleaning catch basins, checking outlets, and flushing lines helps ensure proper performance.
When should I call for professional service?
Chris Patti2026-01-15T16:22:51-05:00You should contact a professional if:
- Multiple lights stop working
- Breakers or GFCIs keep tripping
- Wiring damage is suspected
- Adjustments no longer fix the issue
I think I have an irrigation leak. How do I know for sure?
Devin Bergin2026-01-15T16:16:38-05:00Make sure your controller is in the "off" position, remove the cover from the irrigation meter, either record or take a picture of the position of the meter then return to check it again a few hours later to see if it has moved. If the meter has moved, you have a leak somewhere in your system.
Will drainage damage my lawn or plants?
Chris Patti2026-01-15T16:11:31-05:00Temporary disturbance may occur during installation, but we work carefully to minimize impact and avoid unnecessary damage to roots, trees, and existing landscaping.