Does My Property Need a New Commercial Irrigation System?

If your irrigation system is past its prime, you’ll start to notice signs that something isn’t right. Whether it’s visible damage, subtle billing changes, or constant complaints about landscaping, a failing system will reveal itself. Knowing the red flags now helps you avoid expensive problems later. Continue reading this helpful guide for more!

Why Commercial Irrigation Systems Matter

Your irrigation system does more than just water grass. It plays a key role in how your property looks, how much you spend on utilities, and how easy it is to maintain curb appeal. When it’s working, nobody thinks about it. When it isn’t, the problems pile up quickly.

Failing irrigation systems can lead both to under or over-watering, damaging your landscape and wasting money. They can even create safety issues with slick walkways or dry, dusty grounds. The best way to avoid all of this is to recognize when you have irrigation system issues.

Common Signs Your Commercial Irrigation System Needs Replacing

Some warning signs are obvious. Others are harder to spot unless you’re looking for them. Here’s what to watch out for on your commercial property.

Dry Patches or Wilting Areas

When you see areas of your lawn or landscaping that aren’t getting enough water, it may mean your system isn’t delivering coverage consistently. Dying grass or wilted plants are clear indicators something’s not working as it should.

Overwatering and Puddling

Puddles, soggy ground, and runoff signal an irrigation system that’s applying too much water. Overwatering can damage plant roots and create a muddy mess that’s difficult to maintain and dangerous for pedestrians.

Visible Leaks or Broken Sprinklers

If water is spraying the sidewalk or bubbling up from the ground, it’s a clear sign of a leak or malfunction. Cracked sprinkler heads, broken pipes, and leaky valves often lead to wasted water and rising utility bills.

Uneven Watering Zones

Some zones might be thriving while others look parched. That usually means your commercial irrigation system is no longer providing balanced coverage across the landscape. Poor zone performance can stem from programming issues, faulty valves, or outdated design.

Unexpected Increases in Your Water Bill

If your monthly water costs have jumped without any obvious reason, a hidden leak or inefficiency in your irrigation system could be the culprit. These changes can be subtle at first, but add up over time.

Constant Repairs

Are you calling for irrigation repairs more than once a season? Frequent service calls suggest your system is wearing out. At some point, continued patchwork becomes more expensive than a complete upgrade.

Old Equipment

Most commercial irrigation systems last around 10–15 years with proper care. If your system is reaching or past that window, it’s likely time to evaluate whether it’s still working efficiently. Older systems are harder to service, less precise, and often not water-efficient.

Inconsistent Scheduling or Programming Issues

Smart technology has advanced how commercial irrigation systems operate. If your system is still relying on outdated controllers or can’t adapt to weather conditions, it may be costing you water and hurting your landscape.

Outdated irrigation systems cause more damage than you think. At Varsity, we help businesses identify, upgrade, and maintain the right commercial irrigation system for their needs. Contact us today to schedule a system evaluation.

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How Irrigation Issues Affect Your Property

Irrigation problems don’t just impact your plants. They can create bigger problems across your entire property.

Landscape Decline: A poorly functioning system can ruin flowerbeds, dry out trees, and leave grass looking unhealthy. That impacts the appearance of your property and makes it harder to attract or retain tenants.
Safety Hazards: Excess water runoff can create slippery surfaces on sidewalks, parking lots, and entrances. These hazards put visitors and staff at risk and increase your liability.
Tenant Complaints: If your landscaping looks neglected or dead zones are popping up, tenants may start to voice concerns. In well-maintained properties, regular commercial landscape maintenance is a key part of the tenant experience.
Property Value and Curb Appeal: Prospective tenants or buyers often judge a property by how it looks. A brown lawn or overgrown, flooded planters can hurt your reputation and your bottom line.

The Cost to Replace an Irrigation System

Replacing a commercial irrigation system depends on the size of your property, the complexity of the design, and the materials involved. On average, businesses can expect to spend between $5,000 and $25,000 or more.

That cost includes new piping, sprinkler heads, valves, controllers, sensors, and professional installation. While it may seem steep upfront, the investment typically pays off quickly through reduced water bills, fewer maintenance calls, and improved landscape health. If you’re replacing a system with outdated technology, you may also qualify for water conservation rebates depending on your city or state.

When to Call a Professional

You don’t need to wait for a system breakdown to reach out for help. If you notice any of the signs above, it’s smart to schedule an assessment. Professional specialists like Varsity can inspect your current setup, test zone efficiency, and determine whether your system can be repaired or should be replaced. They’ll also recommend smart upgrades, like weather sensors and more efficient sprinkler heads, to help you save in the long run.

How Varsity Can Help Your Property Thrive

Varsity has helped commercial property owners manage and upgrade their irrigation systems for decades. Our team understands the unique challenges of large-scale irrigation and how to balance performance, efficiency, and cost. We offer full system assessments, repairs, and complete installations using today’s best technology. Our goal is to keep your landscape thriving, your bills manageable, and your tenants happy. Reach out today to get the process started!