How to Locate a Non-Working Sprinkler Valve

Your garden sprinklers typically have multiple valves that control separate zones for watering accuracy. For example, the flowerbed uses one valve while the lawn uses another individual valve since both planted areas require different water amounts. These valves are often buried underground, commonly in protective boxes. If you have a nonworking sprinkler valve, it may be difficult to determine its location. But there are several strategies that help you find the valve without digging into your garden's topsoil.

Using a Valve Locator Tool


Locate your irrigation control box. This controller is commonly installed on an outside wall near your garden.


Access the switches or buttons on the controller by lifting or removing the protective cover. Turn off all the working valves by activating the specific switches and buttons. Allow the nonworking valve to remain on.


Turn your automatic irrigation timer off, if equipped.


Activate the nonworking valve at the controller manually. Observe the sprinklers. Note the first sprinkler that emits water. This sprinkler is the closest visible marker to the hidden nonworking sprinkler valve.


Activate a valve locator tool while standing near the controller.


Follow the wires that extend out of the control box with the valve locator tool. Continue to follow the wires with the tool in the direction of the first activated sprinkler head.


Stop walking when your locator tool indicates that the valve is found. Each locator tool has a different indicator system. Consult the manufacturer's instructions for specific information.


Place a wood stake into the ground at the valve's location.


Turn off the electricity to the irrigation controller at the main electrical panel.


Dig slowly into the ground with a shovel at the marked point. Keep all tools away from the wires and any nearby pipes to prevent damage.


Remove enough soil with the shovel until you reach the valve box, typically about 12 inches below ground.


Repair the valve as needed.

Probing the Soil


Locate the wires extending out of your irrigation control box.


Follow the wires from the control box as they spread out to your sprinkler system.


Insert a soil probe into the ground as you follow the wires into the grass. Do not pinch or damage the wires with the probe.


Continue to probe the soil until your tool strikes the nonworking valve box. It should have a hollow reverberation as you strike it.