What Can Go Wrong With Irrigation Systems?
Common irrigation problems include deteriorating pipes and pipe splits. Blockages are frequent, particularly after a wet season, when ants or sediment can accumulate in the pipes. To keep pipes clear, flush out your irrigation system once every two weeks in the rain. Call an irrigation company like irrigation repair Kent, immediately if you experience any problems with your irrigation system. They’ll be able to inspect your system and make the necessary repairs.
Water Pressure
One of the most common problems with irrigation systems is bad water pressure. When water pressure is too high, it can create a mist, while low water pressure will result in insufficient coverage. Most of these problems are due to clogs in the system, and a flow control valve adjustment can correct the problem. However, you should contact an irrigation contractor for help if you still have these problems.
Another common problem is that the water line is damaged. It can result in low water pressure throughout the irrigation system. If a damaged pipeline is the cause, you will need to replace or reroute it. However, it will help restore water pressure.
Dirt Buildup in Sprinkler Heads
Dirt buildup can prevent a sprinkler from properly watering your landscape. Dirt and debris accumulate in the spray head and nozzle of the sprinkler head, causing the nozzle to become stuck. This problem usually occurs when the sprinkler system is used heavily or in areas with high foot traffic.
The solution is to flush the irrigation system, which is easy to do, but you must follow a set of steps. First, check your sprinkler system for leaks and clogged pipes. You also need to check the sprinkler heads to ensure a proper pop-up.
Dirt and debris buildup can also affect sprinkler heads, causing them to misalign and affect water distribution. To clean the sprinkler heads, unscrew them and remove the filter. Then, rinse them thoroughly to remove all traces of dirt. If dirt and debris are still present, the sprinkler system may need to be repaired by a professional.
Rusty Valves
A rusty valve is a common problem, and there are several ways to remedy it. The first is to clean out the valve box. If it’s dirty, the good idea is to remove the valve and replace it with a new one. You may need to rebuild or replace it if it’s still dirty. Sometimes, you can fix the valve by replacing the diaphragm or the spring. In more serious cases, the only solution is to replace the valve altogether.
Another way to fix a rusty valve is to replace the O-ring. The O-ring is found on the irrigation valve, and different sizes are available. It would help if you were careful to ensure no gaps between the two seals. If you’re unsure how to do it, you can consult YouTube for some instructions. Rusty valves can cause water pressure to drop, causing a leak. In this case, the sprinkler valve must be replaced.
Uneven Irrigation Patterns
Inconsistent watering patterns are a warning sign that your irrigation system isn’t functioning properly. A variety of factors can cause the problem. For example, the sprinkler heads may be clogged, the water pressure may be low or high, or the pipes may be damaged. Occasionally, an irrigation system can even malfunction and cause a flood, which is why it might be beneficial to hire a professional drainage service to install or upgrade any necessary drainage systems.
In any case, the first thing to do is determine the cause of the unevenness. Often, the source of the problem is not as obvious as you think. For example, one problem could be low pressure caused by an undersized pipe or too many sprinkler heads in a single zone. In these situations, lowering the number of heads in a zone or increasing the water flow might help. An irrigation contractor can help you identify the problem and make the appropriate adjustments.