The Basics of Irrigation Troubleshooting


Irrigation systems are tricky to maintain and anyone with one is sure to need irrigation troubleshooting help from time to time. There are so many things that can go wrong, such as your system inadequately covering the area it is supposed to, leaving brown patches; uneven water flow; systems that refuse to shut off; or portions that refuse to work. Rest assured that any mechanical system dealing with water is bound to have some issues. However knowing a little about irrigation troubleshooting will help you avoid and deal with such issues.

Regular maintenance and upgrading your irrigation system when necessary are key components when it comes to irrigation troubleshooting. In fact, you will face significantly fewer problems that require troubleshooting if you do such things.

Regular Maintenance Reduces The Need For Irrigation Troubleshooting

Preventative maintenance is essential to irrigation troubleshooting.

•   Do regular check-ups on various parts of your system. Schedule a monthly inspection of all parts, including scanning for leaks, sprinkler heads that are clogged or broken and other problems with the system.
•   Regular cleaning of nozzle screens and micro-irrigation filters should be done on a regular basis to prevent clogging.
•   Check water pressure regularly as it can cause efficiency issues if it fluctuates.
•   Make sure your sprinkler heads are adjusted correctly so that they adequately water the areas that are needed.
•   Bring in an irrigation specialist to ensure that your system is ready for winter. They have equipment to properly drain and “blow out” your system, so lingering water doesn’t freeze and damage different aspects of your irrigation system. Winterizing is essential if you live in a cold climate.

Upgrades Minimize the Need For Irrigation Troubleshooting  

Consider changes to your system. If you find that your irrigation system is over-watering, especially when there has been rain, you may want to get the technology to detect such issues. Rain shutoff switches are inexpensive and are easy to attach to most irrigation systems. This will save you from an inflated water bill and excess watering problems. Another water-saving investment you may want to make is in smart technology which includes sensors which check weather and soil moisture conditions. Automatic changes to the irrigation schedule of your system are made depending on the readings of such sensors.

There is some new technology worth considering also. If you opt for water-efficient products when you upgrade your system, your water utility may give you rebates. Check it out before making your purchase. Look into low volume, micro-irrigation options for landscaping irrigation. Significantly less water is used with micro spray jets, drip irrigation, bubbler irrigation and micro-sprinklers, helping you save water and reducing runoff.

It is extremely valuable to know when to call an irrigation specialist.
Such individuals have the specialized knowledge and expertise to effectively deal with serious irrigation problems. If a review of your system reveals nothing that you can deal with, call in a specialist to take care of the job. You should also have your system audited by such a specialist in order to ensure that it is running optimally and your areas are getting the necessary irrigation.

W. P. Law, Inc. is one of the Southeast’s leading suppliers of fluid handling equipment for farmers, contractors, and industries. Founded in 1970 in Lexington, South Carolina, the company has seven locations throughout the state.  W.P. Law, Inc.’s reputation is built upon the experience and expertise to find economical solutions to customer’s needs

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