How to Locate My Underground Sprinklers

Lawn irrigation systems, or sprinklers, are installed to relieve home and business owners of having to water the lawn. These systems are installed just under the surface of the lawn and have sprinkler heads that raise to spray water. When not in use, they lower so that the lawn can be mowed, raked, or maintained in other ways. Occasionally, you may need to locate the irrigation system to repair or maintain it or to do yard work that involves digging.

• 1

  Use a metal detector to find the lines, valves and sprinkler heads. Follow the main line from the house. It will split into several lines--the number will depend on the layout and size of your yard. You'll find valves and sprinkler heads after the split. The metal detector will pinpoint the metal portions of the underground system.

• 2

  Read and follow the diagram of your sprinkler system if you received one with the system. The diagram will give you at least a general idea of where the main line, splits, valves and heads are. Start at the main pipe attached to the house or at one of the sprinkler heads that is visible at the surface of the lawn.

• 3

  Turn on your sprinkler system if it is functioning properly. This will cause the sprinkler heads to pop up and release water. You will then be able to see the layout of the system and get a general idea of where the underground lines are located.