If you own or manage a commercial property with a lawn or garden, keeping the vegetation lush and healthy can be a challenge. That's why commercial irrigation systems are so important.
However, like any system, irrigation systems can experience problems that can compromise the health of your plants. This article highlights three of the most common issues that can arise with commercial irrigation systems and provides insight into how to resolve them.
Clogged Sprinkler Heads
Clogged sprinkler heads are one of the most frustrating issues with commercial irrigation systems. Over time, sprinkler heads can become clogged with dirt, debris, or even grass. This can cause uneven watering and dry spots in your lawn or garden.
Sprinkler heads look like small cylinders (usually black or grey) connected to the irrigation system. They're designed to distribute water evenly across your property. If you notice dry spots, it could indicate that one or more of your sprinkler heads is clogged.
The good news is that clogged sprinkler heads are easy to fix. Simply remove the sprinkler head and clean it thoroughly with a toothbrush, being careful not to damage the small parts inside. If that doesn't work, you may have to replace the sprinkler head.
Water Pressure Issues
Low water pressure can result in insufficient watering, while high water pressure can damage the sprinkler heads and cause excess water runoff. Low pressure is often a result of air pockets in the irrigation system that occur when there's not enough water running through the lines.
On the other hand, high pressure can be caused by too much water running through the system or a damaged or blocked valve. The blocked valve can be caused by debris building up, leading to a pressure build-up.
To remedy this issue, ensure that your property's irrigation system is the correct size. If it's too small, it will strain to provide adequate water flow, causing low water pressure. If it's too large, it will cause high water pressure. You may also want to consider installing a pressure regulator to maintain consistent water pressure.
Also, make sure to check the valves periodically for signs of wear and tear or debris. But the best way to resolve them is to hire a professional irrigation system technician. They'll be able to identify the issue and make the necessary repairs or adjustments to keep your system running as it should.
Control System Malfunctions
Control system malfunctions are another widespread issue with commercial irrigation systems. The control system is the brain of the irrigation system, responsible for determining when and how much water to distribute. If it malfunctions, your lawn or garden can suffer.
Malfunctions are usually a result of a power surge, lightning strike, or incorrect settings. When that happens, the control system can become unresponsive or stuck in a loop.
Performing regular maintenance checks is the best way to prevent control system malfunctions. Clean the control box and inspect the wiring for damage. Contact a commercial irrigation system repair service for repairs if you notice any problems. This is quite a sensitive component and should only be handled by a professional.
