Groundwater is one of the important sources of water in Australia for various purposes, namely, agriculture, irrigation, and industrial use. Reportedly, groundwater in Western Australia presently supplies approximately two-thirds of the state’s entire water requirements and is the major supply of water consumed in Perth and many rural towns. Interestingly, private households and local councils all use irrigation to maintain parks, lawns, and gardens and invariably all encounter similar common irrigation problems.
Major and minor issues can occur in all segments of an irrigation system concerning sprinkler systems and reticulation piping to name a few. There are some obvious signs to look out for when it comes to issues with irrigation such an accumulation of water in the garden or parched patches of lawn while others that aren’t so obvious such as a brittle glue fittings in your pipes. All issues with your irrigation system are cause for concern as they are the life blood for your garden, leading to an immediate requirement of an irrigation system repair.
Hence, irrigation maintenance or repair reticulation is of utmost importance for homeowners.
Common Irrigation Problems
Here are some issues about common irrigation problems faced by homeowners that we have explained below.
1. Condition of the Pipe
Ruptured pipes on account of erosion, damage or age of the pipe are the common irrigation system concerns. Get curious as to whether the pipe been unknowingly driven over by a car as this will weaken the pipe or perhaps if its exposed above ground and has been weakened by the sun causing it to degrade.
2. Glue and Fittings
A good one to check is the glue and fitting between your pipes. Glue that is 10+ years has potential to become brittle & frail creating leaks at the joins. They might need an upgrade.
3. Core Wire
The core wire connects the solenoid valve to the controller. So what is the condition of the core wire? Good question. It may have cuts or slits, has started to fray or corrode, has begun to rust or simply has poor wire joins. A reticulation specialist will be able to tell you if this has occurred.
4. Solenoids
A common hassle that homeowners face are solenoid issues. The default position for a solenoid is closed. Over time however things can go wrong causing problems. Water can corrode the core wire which can cause the valve to become stuck and stay permanently open or closed. They can also electronically go wrong and weld themselves stuck (again either open or closed). Checking your solenoid is always a good place to look if you are having issues with your reticulation.
5. Valves
Rubber diaphragms over time will wear away, harden or even develop a small tear. Rocks & large debris can also reduce flow in the valve body causing pressure issues.
6. Controllers
The saying ‘you get what you pay for’ couldn’t be anymore true for reticulation/irrigation systems. The age and quality of controller will play a big part in the success or failure of your system. You’re looking at things like circuit board issues and buttons not responding. If you can afford to spend a little extra, it is 100% worth it.
7. Sprinkler Issues and Clogging of Drippers
Sediment build up or sprinkler getting blocked with dirt are a common issue and easy issue to fix. This can occur mainly due to the dirt clogged at the sprinkler head or the improper water pressure of the sprinkler. It is often noticed that homeowners ignore or delay the requirement of sprinkler valve repair in their lawns and can unknowingly be the cause of a dying lawn or plants.
You must be observant of the water dripping out of the sprinkler despite the station being switched on because it indicates a high chance of a presence of a blockage.
Each of the above-mentioned problems directly indicates that an irrigation system repair or irrigation maintenance is required at the earliest before it disrupts your garden.
Solutions to the irrigation issues
With the below-mentioned solutions, homeowners can solve some of the common irrigation problems on their own. However, external help from experts can also be availed with the help of a perfect reticulation system set in place. This depends upon one’s requirement and budget factors.
1. Self-examination
Post an in-depth examination and assessment of the irrigation system using the above mentioned places to check, homeowners can easily self-identify and diagnose crucial areas of concern and accordingly proceed with the repair solutions. Homeowners should check the designated irrigation areas zones for faulty or damaged pipes and sprinklers on a regular basis.
2. Correct Watering Times
A simple an often over looked problem is watering times. The amount of water applied to one’s garden is important. You may be seriously under-watering your garden causing unnecessary stress on your plants and lawn.
3. Schedule an Annual ‘Reticulation Service’
Homeowners should definitely consider opting for an annual Reticulation Service at around September each year, just as the watering season in Perth begins. The service will ensure your system is operating correctly ensuring your lawn and garden has the best chance or not only surviving but at looking its best all year round.
Final Words
You must attempt to make your home water-efficient with suitable irrigation services. Homeowners in Perth must consider sourcing quality or dependable irrigation systems from experts to live a hassle-free life while making sure your lawn and garden look good and survive the harsh summers.
