Water is a precious commodity. As the weather gets warmer and drier, it’s important to make sure your irrigation system is working properly. This ensures you get the most from every drop of water you use for your lawn. Your sprinkler or irrigation system usually works properly for months at a time without needing to be serviced or maintained. But now may be one of those times where some simple steps can help extend their lifespan and ensure they are ready when needed later in the season (or not). The following tips may also help reduce runoff which can result in wasted water, expensive bills, additional wear on grass blades, and possible weed growth.
Check Your Sprinkler Heads
Inspect and clean (if needed) all sprinkler heads and spray nozzles. Clean debris from gaskets and plastic parts using liquid soap and water, then rinse with a hose. Remove broken or damaged sprinkler heads/spray nozzles on the system; replace if necessary.
Unclog The System
Clear any clogged areas on spickets (where hose is attached). If there is standing water in the spicket, use an auger to remove it before attaching a new head or nozzle. Also try switching out for a grill or soaker type of head to help conserve water. Or you can add drip irrigation lines along with your regular watering system for efficiency’s sake.
Inspect The Lines
Ensure that all sprinkler/irrigation lines are in good conditions. If you spot any breaks or leaks, repairs should be made immediately. This is especially important if water pressure is below 40 psi for your type of irrigation system (electric vs. rotor). Adjusting spickets under low pressure will not help much. The only solution may be to repair the leaking line section with rubber tubing or PVC piping and reattach it to the system; check local hardware stores for help on finding these items.
Check Your Timers
Check timers and make sure they are operational (if automatic)…you wouldn’t want to forget about the system during its cycle! Lubricate moving parts such as gears and clock hands with a few drops of machine oil (any hardware store). This will help the timer and related components last longer and possibly help prevent corrosion/rusting.
Schedule Repairs
Look for broken or damaged sprinkler heads, timers, and other equipment; give us a call if you find any damage or need repairs. Even if there is no sign of trouble with the system itself, but you would like additional information on how to use it more efficiently, feel free to contact us and we will provide you with as much information as possible.
