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Sprinkler Shut-Off Valve Leaks After Turning On: Curb Stop Failure

Main Shutoff Valve 4 Ft Deep Fills Pipe With Water After Opening

Shutoff valve near house, 4 ft deep, operated with key. After turning on, pipe fills with water. How bad?

Likely: Curb Stop or Ported Ball Valve

These valves often have a drain port that relieves pressure when closed. If the port seal fails, it leaks when open. Or, a crack in the pipe just downstream.

Fix: Dig and Inspect

Dig wide hole for working room.
Inspect valve and pipe.
Replace valve (inexpensive) or repair pipe.

Labor is the cost. Do it soon—leaks worsen and undermine soil.

Irrigation: Troubleshooting a Sprinkler Zone That Shows Active but Delivers No Water; Rain Bird ESP-LX "Fault 4" Code: Zone Skipped; Sprinkler Solenoid Testing After Controller Voltage Confirmed—Ohmmeter Method; Why a Sprinkler Head Leaks When the System Is Off: Diaphragm Wear; Sprinkler and Drip System Not Activating: Master Valve or Main Supply Issue; Control Valve Won't Shut Off – Replace Valve After Diaphragm Fails; Choosing a Sprinkler Valve for Low-Pressure Tank Drainage; SlimDial Timer: Zone Stays On After Off – Valve or Controller?; Hardie HR-6100 Controller: System Won't Shut Off; Locating a Buried Irrigation Shut-Off Valve

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