Irrigation System Maintenance

6/19/2022 (Permalink)

Irrigation System Maintenance

When the watering season rolls around in Bel Air, CA, be sure to check your irrigation system fixtures before you turn the water on. Flood restoration professionals agree that preventing a flood is much more cost-effective than cleaning up your property after one.

System Inspection
Before you start your irrigation system for the year, examine your equipment and confirm that it is in good working order.  Even a small crack or a pinhole leak can cause flooding and damage to your property.  When performing your inspection, consider all parts of the system:

• Sprinkler heads, including stems and arms
  
• Water lines from the source to the heads
  
• Connections, screens, and valves
  
• Controller panel and settings
  
  

Irrigation Maintenance
Sprinkler heads are very susceptible to breakage; pay close attention to them.  Be sure they are free of obstructions and debris and that they move freely and can cover their full range.  Examine closely for cracks or wear.
Water lines can leak, and you might not see the problem right away.  Walk the lines when you turn the water on and watch for spongy ground or pooling water.  Keep an eye on your water bill as well; a sudden spike can indicate that you have a leak.
Check all connections and intake valves on the system.  Be sure that screens are clean and that any worn or broken washers are replaced.  It is common for connections to leak, so check that they are tight and that the ground around them remains dry.
Your control panel is important as well.  Confirm that it is functional and that the settings are adjusted properly before you turn the water on.
Irrigation maintenance is required throughout the watering season. Keep an eye on your grass and other plant material. Watch for overly dry areas - brown, wilted, or curling leaves.  Pay attention to pooling water, mushrooms, or other indications of sprinkler flooding. 
Most importantly, address any irrigation issues as quickly as you can to protect your landscaping and prevent damage to your property.