We rely on our irrigation systems to run like clockwork, keeping our gardens and lawns in spectacular condition. Sometimes the upkeep of the system falls by the wayside. We wanted to share general maintenance tips and reminders for the smooth operation of your irrigation system.
Water Distribution — Florida has many native tropical plants, trees, and flowering bushes, and the watering needs vary among them. Your sprinkler system should keep up with different watering requirements or you’ll risk watering too little or too much. In most cases, adjusting or replacing sprinkler heads it the solution. However, you may need to reconfigure the system or update the irrigation control program.
Weather Adaptation — The weather can change suddenly in Florida, so many residents use smart irrigation systems. Data from wind and rain sensors is transmitted to the smart irrigation system control center to make automatic adjustments. If temperatures fall below freezing, automatically or manually drain your systems to avoid cracking the irrigation pipes.
Hazards — Florida has a variety of irrigation system hazards capable of causing a lot of damage to your system. Knowing what to look out for can help keep things under control. Here are a few of the common culprits:
- Lawn equipment
- Wildlife
- Debris
- Tree roots
- Underground utilities
Backflow Prevention — Irrigation systems are required by law to have a backflow preventer installed. Also, they need testing annually to prevent contaminating public drinking water.
Preventive Maintenance — Investing in a maintenance plan for your irrigation system pays for itself. Having regular system checks can identify a small problem with your system before it becomes a significant expense.
Follow the Rules — Don’t put your water supply at risk with costly violations. Follow city and county laws for watering rules and permit requirements. Educate yourself on the laws for your area.
Too busy to keep up with maintaining your system? Challenger Irrigation is here for you. If you need maintenance on your system, contact our office to schedule an appointment with an irrigation specialist today.
