Sand in Sprinkler Heads: Source Identification

Two zones on a Hydrotek 4000 4-zone system deliver sand through sprinkler heads.

Potential Sources

• Recent pipe break: Repair work introduced debris
• Lake/canal source: Screen/intake settled into sediment, sucking sand
• Municipal water: Loose sprinkler or broken pipe allowing soil intrusion

Diagnostic Steps

1. Check if sand appears in all zones or just specific ones
2. Inspect pump intake screen—clean or replace if damaged
3. Flush system: run each zone 10+ minutes to clear
4. If persistent, install sediment filter before valves

Zone-specific sand suggests pipe break. System-wide sand points to source water issue (screen/intake problem).