IRRIGATION SYSTEMS NEED TLC – STARTING NOW !
by Paul Jeffery , Managing Director , Waterscapes Limited
With changes to our climate , irrigation systems may be operational until November and within a few months attention is turned again to the Spring Start Up . No matter how long it has been turned off , an irrigation system should not be restarted until it has been fully tested so that existing or emerging problems can be rectified , and the year starts with a fully functioning system .
Whatever the complexity of the installation , it then needs to be managed accordingly under a planned maintenance regime . This well help to ensure reliable and consistent performance throughout the seasons as operational capacity is increased to 100 % or higher in the peak dry weeks of summer .
The irrigation technology may range from simple sprinklers or surface dripline through to sophisticated , remotely managed fully automated systems . Start Up checks should cover all elements , helping to reduce costly call outs and repairs , water wastage and longer-term damage to landscapes .
Water should be turned on slowly to prevent sudden pressure causing damage to any part of the installation . There may be a need to flush the system and clear out unwanted particles . Sprinkler heads can get blocked not just over winter but throughout the seasons . They should all be checked to ensure also that they rotate correctly and still achieve the required coverage .
Damage caused by rodents , other animals , or garden tools as well as general wear and tear can be assessed when checking surface dripline . Out of sight irrigation delivery systems must also be thoroughly inspected for breakages or leaks to prevent water wastage and ensure low pressure does not result in parts of the landscape receiving insufficient irrigation .
Larger areas are frequently split into irrigation zones with individual watering schedules according to planting . Control valves and controllers should be checked for correct set up and cycle times as well as tested for electrical or supply issues .
After the Spring Start Up , water conservation , cost control and ensuring no under watering in the drier weeks are continuing considerations . Dependent upon the installation , mid-season or more regular planned visits need to be part of every management regime before proper winterisation . It will pay dividends to use experienced professionals to undertake this work as they can also recommend how the performance of the system could be improved through adjustments to watering schedules or investment in additional technology such as flow and rain sensors .
Waterscapes offer full design , installation & maintenance services for irrigation systems and water features – please contact them at info @ waterscapes . co . uk waterscapes . co . uk | 01963 824166
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