Frequently Asked Questions
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.
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.
Why do I still have standing water after rain?
Chris Patti2026-01-15T16:10:35-05:00Possible reasons include:
- Inadequate drainage capacity
- Blocked or clogged pipes
- Improper slope or grading
- Soil conditions that drain poorly
A site evaluation can determine the cause.
Why are my lights flickering?
Chris Patti2026-01-15T16:20:22-05:00Flickering is commonly due to:
- Loose connections
- Moisture in wire splices
- A failing bulb
- Transformer issues
- Voltage issue
This should be addressed promptly to avoid further damage.
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
What is the best time of day to water?
Devin Bergin2026-01-15T16:17:12-05:00Early morning is best. Watering during evening times or overnight will make the lawn more susceptible to fungus.
How do I know if my rain sensor is working?
Devin Bergin2026-01-15T16:15:45-05:00Make sure sensor switch on controller is in active position. Start a manual cycle on your system, push down on center tab on top of sensor. If system shuts off, the sensor is working.
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 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 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.
Why do my lights turn on during the day?
Chris Patti2026-01-15T16:20:50-05:00This is usually related to:
- A photocell that is shaded, dirty, or failing
- Timer settings that need adjustment
Cleaning or repositioning the photocell often solves the problem.
Can drainage be installed in an existing yard?
Chris Patti2026-01-15T16:11:43-05:00Yes. Drainage systems can be installed in existing landscapes with minimal disturbance, and we take care to restore affected areas as much as possible.
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.
What do I do if I have a station that will not shut off?
Devin Bergin2026-01-15T16:16:50-05:00Turn controller to "off" position. If station shuts off, it is a programming issue. If it continues to run, unplug controller. If the station shuts off, it is a controller issue. If it still continues to run, it is a valve issue and you must turn water off at the backflow preventer.
What is a downspout drain?
Chris Patti2026-01-15T16:13:48-05:00A downspout drain connects to your gutter downspouts and carries roof runoff underground away from the foundation to a safe discharge point.
Why does water come out near my foundation?
Chris Patti2026-01-15T16:09:56-05:00This may indicate:
- A disconnected or broken downspout line
- A blocked drainage pipe
- Improper discharge location
This should be addressed promptly to avoid foundation damage.
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.
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.
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.
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.
What is a catch basin?
Chris Patti2026-01-15T16:13:34-05:00A catch basin is a surface drain that collects water from low areas and channels it into underground piping to help prevent flooding and standing water.
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.
Can drainage help protect my foundation?
Chris Patti2026-01-15T16:11:20-05:00Yes. Proper drainage helps move water away from the foundation, reducing the risk of erosion, moisture intrusion, and long-term structural issues.
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.
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.