Manual Guide for Activating Your Irrigation System
Gearing Up for Spring: A Step-by-Step Guide to Reopening Your Irrigation System
22nd March 2023
With the mercury rising and the days getting longer, it's high time to dust off the ol' irrigation system and get it pumping again. But before you go flipping the switch, here's a handy guide to make sure your garden gets the tender, loving, watering it deserves.
Let's Get Byron Bay Ready to Roll
Start with a thorough check-up of your irrigation system's components - pipes, fittings, emitters, you name it. Look for any cracks, deterioration, or signs of damage that might cause issues down the line. A quick once-over now can save you a world of headaches later in the summer.
Once you've confirmed everything is shipshape, it's battery check time. If your programmer runs on 24 Vdc, make sure your backup batteries are still as fresh as a daisy. If it's alkaline-powered, swap those suckers out for new ones. Better safe than sorry, right? If your programmer has rechargeable lithium batteries like the Pure Vision or Amico AG R model, make sure they're fully charged before you start up.
Other essential pre-season checks include:
- Ensuring the soil isn't frozen solid
- Checking your programmer and its programming are A1
- Making sure the ball valve opens like a well-oiled machine
- Ensuring the collector escape valves are functioning smashingly
- Purifying the irrigation system of any gunk
- Shutting drainage valves tight as a drum
- Verifying the solenoid valves and sectors are all good to go
Timing is Everything
The best moment to perform this routine inspection is during the spring transition, when the frosty breath of winter has eased off and the temps are on the rise. It's always a smart move to enlist the help of a pro to spot any lurking troubles and perform any necessary repairs.
Don't Skip the Steps
Prepping your irrigation system for the summer is like the warm-up before a big jive. It's a simple procedure that lets you catch potential problems before they become full-blown disasters. So don't roll the dice and hope for the best - take care of your garden, and it'll take care of you! Now, let the water flow and the flowers grow!
Fun Fact
- Drip irrigation can conserve water and reduce waste by delivering water directly to the roots of plants. Perfect for potted plants and arid areas.
Expert Insight
- Schedule regular inspections throughout the season to nab issues early. Don't forget to winterize your system at the end of the season to protect it from freezing temps.
[1] Forbes
[2] DIY Network
[3] Hunker
[4] Plants Map
[5] Water Sense
- To ensure an efficient watering system and a thriving home-and-garden lifestyle this summer, consider incorporating drip irrigation, as it can conserve water and reduce waste by delivering water directly to the roots of plants, making it ideal for potted plants and arid areas.
- For a lush and flourishing home-and-garden, regular inspections throughout the season are essential in catching issues early, enabling timely repairs and ensuring a smooth gardening experience. As winter nears, remember to winterize your irrigation system to protect it from freezing temperatures.
