Sprinkler repair bills can be steep when a system breaks down. The irrigation pros at Heinen offer handy tips to help protect your investment now to avoid expensive fixes later.
The sprinkler pros at Heinen are able to spot potential issues before they become major problems.
Regular Maintenance Checks
One of the best ways to avoid inconvenient breakdowns and costly repairs to an irrigation system is regular checks by an irrigation professional. Preventative inspections detect signs of wear and tear and other unseen damage – from underperforming sprinkler heads to leaky underground pipes to faulty valves.
Regular maintenance checks also help monitor and maintain efficiency. Efficient systems reduce water usage and lower monthly water bills. There are multiple conditions that increase the risk of an automatic underground sprinkler system wasting water – causing as much damage to the homeowner’s wallet as they cause to the homeowner’s lawn.
Monitor Water Pressure
Irregular water pressure, whether too high or too low, can cause serious problems. Too much pressure strains the system’s components, including the underground pipes, valves, sprinkler heads, and fittings. Excessive water pressure increases the chances of components leaking or cracking. Plus, high water pressure may cause water to mist as it is dispersed from the sprinkler head (versus coming out as a spray). Water wasted in this fashion is all but invisible, but the impact on the homeowner’s budget can be quite visible.
On the other side of the spectrum, low water pressure can prevent sprinklers from achieving even coverage – preventing sections of a lawn or garden from being adequately watered, or even remaining completely dry. Insufficient force through sprinkler heads may also allow clogs and blockages to form, causing gaps in its watering pattern and straining components even further.
A water pressure sensor can help avoid these problems. Advanced digital controllers are easily monitored and controlled, sending alerts when water pressure issues present themselves. An irrigation pro will recognize these alerts and make the repairs required to protect the system from strain, damage, and breakdowns.
Use Quality Sprinkler Components
Quality sprinkler components greatly improve a system’s reliability and reduce breaks and failures. State-of-the-art parts made from high-grade plastics, stainless steel, or brass are more durable, resistant to corrosion and rust, and extend a system’s useful life. They are less prone to clogs, leaks, and other malfunctions that waste water – and money.
During maintenance checks, the Heinen irrigation pros ensure sprinkler heads are cleared of debris.
Clear Away Debris
Sprinkler heads should be regularly cleared of dirt, grass clippings, and other debris. Otherwise, clogs and blockages can occur which prevent water from being evenly dispersed. Inefficient coverage leads to both over- and under-watering, stressing grass and plants and increasing the probability of erosion or fungal diseases.
The buildup of debris around sprinkler heads also causes rust and corrosion. These weaken the integrity of the sprinkler heads and make them more susceptible to breaks. Clearing sprinkler heads every couple of months helps extend the system’s lifespan, so taking the time to do so frequently is time well spent.
Call Heinen For Expert Irrigation Services
The irrigation specialists at Heinen Landscape & Irrigation have been servicing Kansas City sprinkler systems for over 30 years. For expert help solving potential sprinkler issues or preventing any future problems, schedule a no-obligation consultation with Heinen.
