![]() ![]() ![]() Without this, it will be very hard to keep the system in tip-top condition.įailure to do this could result in an inefficient system at first, then unnecessary breakages and downtime, and ultimately in lower yields and years that get cut off the lifespan of your irrigation system. If it sounds or looks different than it did the day before, it could very well be an indication that a problem is about to occur.”įarmers should also invest time and effort in training team members who will handle and do maintenance on the equipment and follow it up with quality checks on the work that gets done.īorcherds advises that farmers should have a fixed checklist and maintenance programme for their irrigation system. “It is sometimes very easy to identify a problem by just looking, hearing, and feeling. “Get a feeling for the equipment,” he says. ![]() You need to be comfortable not only with handling the equipment, but also with normal flow rates and pressures across the system. This could include weekly tasks as well as maintenance at the start and end of the irrigation season.īorcherds says it is very important to familiarise yourself with your own irrigation system as quickly as possible after installation. Leaks (indicated by wet spots along the lines) should be fixed to prevent wastage, and farmers should also keep a watchful eye on flow rates and system pressure.ĭeviations could indicate a problem and, even though the problem might be localised, it could significantly influence the entire system’s longevity.įor the more intricate mechanical components, such as pumps, filters, flow meters and fertigation units, regular checks and inspections will be necessary, along with scheduled maintenance strictly according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Valves and pipes should be inspected for wear and tear and damaged parts should be replaced. In sprinkler systems, visual inspection is possible, and farmers should regularly walk through irrigated blocks to check that all sprinklers are working and standing upright, and that none of them are obstructed by insects, mud, or weeds, and that sprinkler nozzles distribute water optimally. Dripper flow paths are very narrow and can clog easily if farmers neglect to do preventative maintenance. ![]()
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