Every irrigation system needs some type of filter to keep sand and debris from clogging the system or causing serious damage. The type of filter that you use will depend on your specific system needs. An irrigation filter can require a bit of routine maintenance, but it is an inexpensive form of insurance that will keep your irrigation system running year after year. Here’s a beginner’s guide to some of the different types of irrigation filters.
Screen Filters
Screen filters are usually the most cost effective filter and also the most common. They’re really good at keeping sand out of a system. However, if your water contains a lot of organic debris, you’ll want to go with an automated self-cleaning screen filter.
Spin Clean Filters
A spin clean filter is a unique type of irrigation filter that stays clean while it’s in operation. These filters move debris, especially sand, across a screen and into a basin where it can be collected and drained. As long as your water pressure remains consistent, the filter will clean itself, reducing the amount of maintenance needed for the system.
Media Filters
If you’ve ever seen a swimming pool filter, chances are it was a media filter. These filters use a type of media (usually sand) to stop debris. The water is forced through the media and when any debris hits the media, it stops because it can’t fit between the spaces. Sand comes in in different size ratings, so you will want to choose a sand that is appropriate for the type of debris you want filtered out.
Disc Filters
A disc filter uses a container filled with a stack of round discs. When water is forced through the filter, the discs catch any organic debris or sand and trap them. Disc filters are highly effective, but they have to be flushed or manually cleaned.
If you’re not sure what type of irrigation filter you need for your situation, contact us at WP Law. We’re happy to answer any questions you might have about irrigation filters.