A Comprehensive Guide to Maintenance of Existing Irrigation Sprinklers

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A Comprehensive Guide to Maintenance of Existing Irrigation Sprinklers

Keep your irrigation system running efficiently with our expert guide on how to maintain existing sprinklers. Read on for a complete overview that covers everything from troubleshooting to repair and more!

If you already have an irrigation system in place, regular inspection and maintenance can help make sure your sprinklers are working as efficiently as possible. With this guide, you’ll get a comprehensive overview of how to maintain existing irrigation sprinklers from troubleshooting the system to identifying any repair needs.

Test System Pressure Regularly.

Proper system pressure is essential for efficient operation of your irrigation system. To ensure adequate performance and to help identify any potential problems before they become bigger issues, you should test the system pressure regularly. Start by attaching a pressure gauge to the sprinkler system and take note of the reading. Ideally, the pressure should remain between 40-60 psi for optimum output but this can vary depending on the type of sprinkler heads and nozzles used. If it falls outside of that range, then you may need to adjust and/or replace some components in order to get back within optimal levels.

Check System Rain Shut-Offs.

Checking the system rain shut-offs is an important part of sprinkler maintenance to ensure they are functioning properly. Rain shut-offs (or rain sensors) detect rainfall and, when activated, automatically turn off your irrigation system. If these sensors are not installed correctly or they are malfunctioning, then your system may be inadvertently overwatering areas. Inspect all wires and connections to make sure everything is securely in place and functioning as intended. You may also want to consult with a professional to double check any moisture sensors before you activate them for the season.

Maintain Water Uniformity Levels.

In addition to rain shut-off and moisture sensors, it is important to maintain water uniformity levels in the field. Uniformity ensures that irrigation water is evenly distributed across the entire irrigated area. Achieving proper uniformity can be quite challenging, as this depends on other factors such as soil type, head spacing, pipe size and pressure. It’s best to consult a specialist who may adjust your system to meet all prescribed uniformity levels. This will help you save money by avoiding overwatering.

 

Inspect and Clean Sprinkler Heads Regularly.

On a regular basis, it’s important to inspect and clean sprinkler heads for debris, dirt, and obstructions. Even the smallest stones or bits of debris can impact the water distribution resulting in areas that are over-watered or under-watered. Make sure to clean out all dust from the filter before re-connecting your system. Additionally, it helps to check each head for leakage and repair any leaks accordingly. Proper inspection and maintenance is key to having an efficient irrigation system.

Installing a Groundwater Detection Sensor.

To ensure your irrigation system is working efficiently, you may want to consider installing a groundwater detection sensor. This type of device monitors moisture levels in the soil and can be used to adjust your sprinkler settings accordingly. The sensor minimizes the chance of overwatering or underwatering and reduces water waste overall. This can help save you time and money while helping support healthy lawns and landscapes.