How Much Does It Cost to Repair My Outdoor Misting System?

Estimating Costs to Repair an Outdoor Misting System

Labor Cost 

Typically, plumbers charge around $50 to $100 per hour to investigate the problem with your misting system and perform any necessary repairs. If your repair takes less than an hour, you should expect to pay at least the full hourly rate, as most plumbers have a minimum charge for jobs that take one hour or less. Labor costs tend to vary by location. Areas with a higher cost of living tend to have higher labor costs, while areas with lower living costs tend to have lower labor costs. 

Replacement Parts Cost

An outdoor misting system consists of tubing and pipes through which water is delivered by compressed air to form a mist. The system isn't complicated, and most malfunctions result from a blocked tube or nozzle or a short in the electrical system. 

The replacement of a pipe or nozzle or repairing a blown fuse is inexpensive and straightforward. Tubing and piping usually cost $0.63 to $3 per linear foot to replace. Nozzles are also typically inexpensive, costing less than $1 each. Fuses usually cost between $0.50 and $1. 

If your misting system has a pump that's broken and in need of replacement, you'll pay the full cost of a new pump. Pumps range in price from $500 to $1,500.

How Much Does It Cost to Repair a Misting System Yourself?

Depending on the problem, you may be able to fix your misting system issue without calling in a pro. Before calling one, do some simple troubleshooting.

• Ensure the nozzles are clear and don’t need to be cleaned.

• Check the tubing for holes that can be patched.

• Ensure the power system to your misting system is on.

If you feel comfortable replacing the piping, nozzles, fuse, or pump, you may be able to complete these repairs on your own. If you complete the work rather than a pro, you can expect to save $50 to $100 per hour in labor costs.

What Factors Influence the Cost to Repair Your Misting System?

Several factors influence the cost to repair your misting system. Misting systems that cover a larger area and are more difficult to access or have a more complex pump or compressor system will cost more than simple ones. Additionally, labor costs will be higher in areas with a higher cost of living and lower in areas with a lower cost of living.

Cost of System Accessibility

The cost of your misting system repair may be affected in some cases by the accessibility of the system. Some pros may charge more for the repair if the pipes are hung unusually high or if the compressor is placed in a difficult-to-access crawl space. Make sure to explain any accessibility issues to your pro before they arrive at your home, and discuss the possibility of increased repair costs.

FAQs About Repairing Your Misting System

How much does it cost to install a misting system?

The cost to install an outdoor misting system is between $2,090 and $3,420 on average. Misting systems range widely in terms of complexity and quality and are typically used for patio cooling, garden irrigation, or mosquito control. 

How do I know my misting system needs repair?

When your misting system is in need of repair, you'll usually notice that it doesn't turn on, that the pressure is too low, or that some or all the nozzles aren't working. When this happens, you can troubleshoot by checking to ensure the power source is working properly, there are no holes in your piping, and there are no clogged or damaged nozzles. If there are no readily visible issues, a pro can help identify and repair the problem. 

Is misting system repair more expensive than sprinkler repair?

On average, misting system repair is slightly more expensive than sprinkler system repair. Though both are designed to deliver water outdoors, sprinkler systems and misting systems serve different purposes and have different potential problems. The cost to repair a sprinkler is $130 to $390 on average, while misting system repairs cost an average of $170 to $830 to complete.