Landscape Maintenance Tip: Check Irrigation

With Tucson and southern Arizona’s temperatures beginning to touch the 90s and inevitable triple digits, the increased use of water is on the way. Since Tucson and other areas have a tiered pricing structure for water that increases in price as usage increases, it’s critical to eliminate wasted water usage. Irrigation systems can be a huge expense if they aren’t working correctly. Today’s Tucson Landscaping maintenance tip—check your irrigation system for leaks and other problems.

Irrigation systems vary but basic layouts are the same. A timer control system sends an electrical signal to the valves, connected to the water line. That signals the valve solenoids to open and allow water to flow to the emitters spread through the lawn. Sometimes, signs of excess water are visible around the plants. In other cases, if the drip lines have gotten pushed under the surface, signs of water may not be as obvious. But it’s always a good practice to periodically walk the entire area of the irrigation system. An even more accurate check could be done with a moisture meter. Moisture meters have a long probe that’s inserted around the base of a plant and tests the soil moisture. In cases where the moisture meter shows higher moisture in some areas than other, it could be an indication of a leak.

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The emitters are what controls the amount of water each line will drip. Emitters come in various flow rates, most commonly ½ gal. per hour, 1 gal. per hour, and 2 gal. per hour. Occasionally, they will break and allow more water to flow through. When that happens, they may need to be replaced.

Another source of excess water can occur if the valves are not closing completely. Valves often have a diaphragm inside that seals off the water flow.  If that diaphragm becomes damaged, it won’t seal properly. Another potential cause of valve failure is dirt or small rocks getting into the line. They settle inside the valve and prevent the diaphragm from completely sealing. Often, there is a screen filter between the water source and the valves. Replacing the screen filter when it becomes worn will help prevent foreign objects from getting into the valves.

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There are many different brands and types of drip systems, but all work basically the same way. Understanding and monitoring your irrigation system will help prevent the shock of an abnormally large water bill.

Landtamers Landscaping, a Tucson landscape maintenance company, offers irrigation system repair as well as commercial and residential landscaping services, hardscapes, and tree services.