October 2017

3 Things to Look For During Your Performance Check

Posted on October 26, 2017September 8, 2022 by splashme@splashomnimedia.com

Everyone fancies lush green lawns and extensive green fields thanks to the innovations in irrigation. However, despite their prowess and precision watering capability, irrigation systems need to be regularly maintained to ensure they function properly.

If you are scheduling a performance check to determine if your irrigation equipment is functioning properly, here’s what you can expect from the maintenance visit;

Pressure Check

To make sure that your irrigation system functions effectively and efficiently, the water pressure should be optimal. In most instances, low pressure is attributed to leaks, control valves not set (or operating) properly, airlocks, wrong direction of rotation and a damaged impeller.

Power consumption check

Sometimes pumps consume too much power. This is determined by checking the amperage draw when the pump is running. More often than not, high flow rates (caused by leaks or multiple zones running together) and mechanical defects are the main culprits of an upsurge in power usage.

Leaks

Leaks not only waste water, but they can cause other problems in your irrigation system as well. Large leaks can cause low pressure problems and pump power usage problems as mentioned earlier. When inspecting your irrigation system for leaks, check the mainline piping as well as isolation and zone control valves. If you are just starting your system for the first time in the spring, make sure that all drain valves (that were opened to winterize the system) are closed.

Valve diagnosis

Valves are a key component of any irrigation system. Making sure that they function properly should be of prime importance during any performance check. Control valves not only allow the system to be turned on and off but they also control the pressure going to the submain and lateral lines. The valve should be checked to see if opens and closes properly. Damaged diaphragms and malfunctioning solenoids can cause this problem. Control valves should also be checked to see if they are regulating pressure properly. Damaged control pilots and tubing can cause this problem.

At the end of this process, your irrigation equipment should be functioning properly and you may have saved yourself a few headaches down the road as well.

3 Savvy Ways to Conserve Water With an Agricultural Irrigation System

Posted on October 19, 2017September 8, 2022 by splashme@splashomnimedia.com

Technology in irrigation is now helping farmers achieve more in the area of water conservation.

Here are 3 savvy ways to conserve water with an agricultural irrigation system.

Use of Sensors

The use of soil moisture sensors and local weather monitoring stations allow farmers to obtain real time data on plant growing conditions. This information allows farmers to implement irrigation scheduling programs that allow them to apply precisely the right amount of water at the right time to provide ideal growing conditions for their crop. As a result, farmers have realized a reduction in the consumption of water and fertilizer through this concept.

Precision Irrigation

Precision irrigation involves placing the water closer to the plant’s root zone. Using methods such as low pressure drops on center pivots or drip/micro irrigation are examples of this technology. Precision irrigation improves system efficiency by reducing water losses from wind drift and evaporation. There are additional benefits with drip irrigation such as reduced disease problems.

Irrigation Scheduling

Irrigation scheduling is the process of determining the best time to run an irrigation system and the duration. Several factors need to be considered when determining the best irrigation schedule. Most notably is the weekly water requirement of the crop that you are growing. The water requirement can change as the crop maturity changes. Crops that are in the early developmental stage typically do not require as much water as crops that are in the fruit production stage. Another factor to consider when developing an irrigation schedule is the current weather conditions. Has it rained recently or has soil moisture been depleted by a long dry spell? Other factors such as soil type and slope should also be considered. An effective irrigation schedule will take into account all of these factors and allow the farmer to determine how much water to apply and when to make the application.

For additional information about agricultural irrigation contact the experts at W.P. Law today.

2 Strange Pump Noises and What They Mean

Posted on October 12, 2017September 8, 2022 by splashme@splashomnimedia.com

Strange noises coming from your water pump can be a cause for alarm. Mostly the noises are either in form of humming, buzzing or clicking. In some cases, these noises may be an indicator of trouble on the way, therefore a checkup and repair is highly advised.

Humming

If your water pump keeps humming and it’s not moving water, the problem could be with the pump motor, motor start capacitor or low voltage. It could also be because the pump has lost prime due to a leaky foot valve. You can try to turn off the pump and prime it manually. Then close the priming opening and start the pump. If the pump loses prime again, check the suction piping for air leaks and the foot valve.

Clicking

It’s normal for the relay switch in water pumps to click on and off when water is running. If the click happens once every 1 to 2 minutes, then that’s okay. But if it happens rapidly, and causes the pump to switch on and off, then there is a problem. You should turn it off immediately to prevent the pump from being damaged.

There are many more strange noises that you may hear from your water pump that are hard to explain. The best way to diagnose and repair their sources is by consulting the experts at the W.P. Law Incorporated.

7 Ways To Rock Your Outdoor Kitchen This Fall

Posted on October 5, 2017September 8, 2022 by splashme@splashomnimedia.com

Fall is a great time to enjoy your outdoor kitchen. The weather is cooler, insects have died down, and there are so many beautiful colors to enjoy in your backyard. Whether you’re planning dinner with your family or are setting up a big outdoor bash, here are seven tips to help you get the most from your outdoor space:

1. Have a pop-up tent or patio umbrella handy if the fall weather shifts and there’s a little rain.

2. Now that the days are getting shorter, it’s time to think about lighting features including votive candles, multipurpose swivel lamps, and path lights marking the edges of paths and the patio.

3. Make the most of flower pots. Arrange them around the sink and seating areas.

4. Rustic centerpieces look wonderful in a natural environment. Express your creativity with arrangements that include elements like autumn leaves and heirloom pumpkins.

5. Think about seating arrangements. The outdoors opens many options including lounge chairs, benches, or even blankets for sitting under the stars.

6. For many people, a stone pizza oven or high-end backyard grill is the highlight of an outdoor kitchen. However, don’t underestimate the class that an elegant open air bar can add.

7. An outdoor kitchen is an evolving household feature. If you’re looking for your next project, consider expanding your kitchen into a place you can enjoy year round by adding shade features.These include pergolas, gazebos, and romantic arbors.

Are you ready to turn your outdoor kitchen dreams into a reality? Contact us today at WP Law, Inc. Our friendly experts will be glad to answer any of your questions.

Month: October 2017