When a single sprinkler will not work, it can be confusing determining what is wrong. But in most home systems, when a single sprinkler will not work it is because the solenoid on that sprinkler is bad. The process for fixing this is as simple as putting gas in a car.

• Step 1

Turn the water supply off to the system.

• Step 2

  Turn on the system manually to relieve the pressure in the pipes. This will ensure the head does not turn on when working on it.

• Step 3

  Dig around the head that is not working. The solenoid is normally located under the manual switch on the head. Make sure to uncover the wires 1 foot beyond the connections.

• Step 4

  Cut the wires on the controller side of the connections. This will make sure the connections are new when done.

• Step 5

  Remove the solenoid. Most solenoids are screwed in by hand. Some require a screwdriver to remove, but most do not.

• Step 6

  Install the new solenoid. Make sure it is only hand tight.

• Step 7

  Strip the wires to reveal 1/2 inch of copper. Twist one controller wire to one solenoid wire and cap with the wire nut from the direct bury connector. Now press the wire nut down into the grease tube and close. Make sure the nut goes all the way to the bottom. Repeat for the other wire.

• Step 8

  Turn the water back on and turn the head on with the controller. If the head works, then fill the hole in and tamp the soil. If not, then the solenoid is not the problem.