Reliability-First Upgrades
Most repeat irrigation problems come from system limits, not one bad part. Excess pressure, outdated control behavior, and layouts that no longer match landscaping drive waste and callbacks.
We target the smallest upgrade set that creates a measurable win. That usually starts with pressure discipline, then distribution and control changes that keep the system maintainable.
Jump to: Reliability upgrades • Drip conversions • Upgrade FAQs • Fast help.
More: Service Plans • Irrigation overview
Pressure discipline first, then distribution and control. Regulating excessive pressure often prevents repeat leaks and misting; after that, targeted drip/coverage upgrades and smart scheduling create cleaner long-term performance.
| Symptom Patch | Root-Cause Upgrade |
|---|---|
| Replace failed heads, keep high pressure | Add PRV strategy and stabilize operating pressure |
| Keep sprays in problem beds | Convert suitable bed zones to drip/subsurface |
| Legacy timer with frequent manual drift | Smart controller baseline + documented zone logic |
| Unknown flow behavior during faults | Flow/MV strategy where it improves detection and response |
| Repeated seasonal callbacks | Lower repeat-failure risk and better tuneability |
We recommend the smallest change that produces a measurable win: pressure discipline, cleaner coverage, bed conversions to drip, and smart control where it improves follow-through.
Approach
We recommend the minimum set of upgrades that delivers a meaningful improvement in reliability and water discipline.
Built For
Upgrades are designed to stay maintainable: clean access, documented settings, and parts we can service over time.
Scope Gate
We confirm fit, wiring, pressure under flow, and constraints before we commit to hardware changes.
What changed and what you want to improve: coverage, waste, reliability, or control.
Run test + root-cause checks: pressure, nozzle mix, valve behavior, and programming drift.
Recommend the smallest set of changes that delivers a measurable improvement.
Install, tune, and re-test so you can see the difference before we leave.
When a controller is outdated, difficult to adjust, or inconsistent, a Rachio replacement can be a practical upgrade — especially when paired with a clean inspection and mechanical tune-up.
Smart control isn’t a substitute for mechanical repairs. We verify wiring integrity, zone mapping, and a practical baseline program. See the Rachio controller guide. If the system hasn’t been evaluated recently, start with a startup/inspection.
Many landscape beds are overwatered by sprays. Drip conversions are a high-leverage upgrade when you want less overspray on mulch/hardscape and more targeted watering around plantings.
Related product callouts: Drip filter + pressure regulator, Micro-drip emitters & stakes, 1/4" inline emitter tubing, subsurface dripline, and container micro-drip kit (2 ft run).
Containers dry out faster than in-ground beds. Micro-drip is a clean way to add predictable watering to planters without overspraying patios, walkways, and entry features.
If you want smarter scheduling for these zones, see Smart Irrigation (Rachio).
Service-scoped / quote after inspection.
Not sure which upgrade makes sense? Start with a Tune-Up & Repair Visit and we’ll identify the highest ROI next step.
Online Booking Request a Free InspectionAlso see: Tune-Ups & Repairs and Winterization.
Most upgrades are service-scoped because site conditions vary. We inspect access, pressure under flow, wiring, and existing system condition before quoting the cleanest upgrade path.
Upgrade when the same failure pattern repeats, when landscape changes make current layout inefficient, or when pressure/control limitations continue to drive waste and callbacks.
Yes. We verify pressure under flow and recommend a PRV path when excessive source pressure is shortening system life. See: PRV guide and 1" PRV down-leg standard.
Not automatically. Smart control can reduce waste when paired with correct mechanical baseline, matched nozzles, healthy valves, and practical programming.
Often, yes, especially in beds where sprays create overspray, algae, and runoff. Drip/subsurface can be more predictable and easier to maintain when built with filtration and regulation.
Yes. We can add micro-drip emitters and tubing for container zones when filtration, regulation, and routing are configured for reliable operation.
It depends on system goals and layout. In many properties, flow monitoring with a master valve improves leak response and control confidence.
Yes. Head relocations and spray-body height changes are common after new beds, hardscape work, grade changes, or plant growth.
No. Most upgrades require an on-site visit because access, wiring, pressure under flow, and existing system condition affect what’s feasible and maintainable.
Best timing is after landscape changes or before peak summer stress, so the upgraded system is tuned before demand is highest.
Yes. Many clients phase upgrades by risk and ROI, starting with pressure discipline and critical reliability fixes, then layering control and distribution improvements.
If you want steady performance across seasons, ongoing service plan coverage helps maintain programming, mechanical condition, and early issue detection after upgrade work.