Due to its dry and hot summers, irrigation in Perth is often used in residential gardens, public parks and commercial landscapes.
Automated reticulation systems can save time, money and water compared to hand or hose watering, but they do need regular maintenance and, at times, professional repairs.
Spring is a great time to make sure your system is ready for the hot months that lie ahead. It’s essential that the right amount of water is used (too little or too much can cause real problems) and that your garden is getting the best coverage.
Want to do your own reticulation repairs? We’ve got a few tips on what to look for…
Turn your reticulation system on and pay close attention to where exactly the water is landing – and how. Then consider the following:
- Are there areas of lawn or garden bed not being reached by the water?
If this is the case, you may need to adjust the relevant sprinkler head to make sure it’s aiming in the right direction and/or covering the right area. - Are any sprinkler heads not spraying water?
You may be experiencing low water flow in this instance, or the sprinkler head may be clogged up. It’s not uncommon for the heads to become blocked with mud, lawn clippings or other garden debris. Removing the head, flushing it through with a hose or under a tap and replacing it may solve your problem. - Are there areas of very heavy water flow, or puddling in a certain area?
If the answer to this question is “yes”, it means you’re probably looking at a broken sprinkler head, which will need replacing.
PRO TIP: MARK YOUR SPRINKLER HEADS!
Sprinkler heads can be hard to locate once the reticulation system has been turned off, so make sure that you mark where the “problem sprinklers” are in your garden!
You can do this by either sketching a quick map of your garden or by physically putting a marker down by the sprinkler which needs attention.
Marking the sprinkler heads means that you can easily find them again when you go to make your reticulation repairs – and if you decide to get in a technician they won’t need to spend ages trying to locate the problem (which will save you money!)
DON’T FORGET: Always consult the information provided by the manufacturer of your sprinkler heads before conducting reticulation repairs, as there are some variances between different brands.
Sprinkler heads are pretty robust, but if you’re not confident about what you’re doing they can be easily broken or disturbed. And when in doubt, contact a professional!
So to summarise:
- Run your reticulation system and make sure it’s working properly
- Identify any problem areas
- Repair or replace any sprinkler heads (remember to check the manufacturer’s instructions)
- Ensure correct heights and locations of your lawn and garden sprinkles
- Call in a professional if you’re not sure what to do or what is causing the problem
Before you know it, summer will be here and the air will be dry as a bone… but your garden won’t be!
Need a bit of help with your reticulation repairs in Perth? Call us today and let us give you a hand.
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