Common Problems With Drip Irrigation Systems and How to Fix Them!

Drip irrigation systems can be temperamental, occasionally requiring repairing.

Fortunately, there are just a few common problems that farmers experience with these systems and correcting them is fairly easy.

Here are the top issues that require drip irrigation system repair and what should be done about them!

1. Plugged Emitters or Hoses - Plugged hoses and emitters are the top issues that require irrigation system repair. The easiest way to resolve this problem is to clean or replace plugged emitter and water pump filters, make sure to use the right filters for the emitter, and treat irrigation water to prevent algae and scale. Prevent blockages by routinely flushing drip hoses every month allowing hoses to drip at a higher pressure for 5 to 10 minutes at a time.

2. Water Pressure Problems - Pressure irregularities can result in plants not receiving the nutrients and water they need or getting too much. Resolve pressure problems as a part of drip irrigation system repair by regularly observing system pressure, resolving pressure problems at the pump, and monitoring system performance with distribution uniformity evaluations to uncover trouble points that require additional irrigation system repair.

3. Leaks - Leaks in emitters, hoses, and risers are very common and something that farmers using drip irrigation systems will always deal with. The most efficient solution is to make a habit of driving the perimeter of the irrigation system regularly and carrying parts and tools to make immediate field repairs. Whether due to a loose emitter nozzle or a perforated hose, these repairs can usually be done fairly quickly and easily. Putting them off only results in water and fertilizer waste, and poor irrigation distribution.

4. Age - The final issue that many farmers experience is all of the above problems happening continuously due to the age of the system. Most drip irrigation systems are built with a lifespan of around 10 years. While many get much more than a decade out of their systems, the older the system gets, the more frequently issues like leaks, clogged hoses as well as nozzles, and pressure problems will arise. At the point that drip irrigation system repairs take up more time than is worth it, it might be time to consider replacing the system or at least parts of it.

Though they do require good maintenance and occasional irrigation system repair, drip irrigation systems are fairly easy to troubleshoot and keep efficiently running.

Farmers who watch for these common problems and become proficient at repairing them can minimize their irrigation problems overall and get great service from their drip system!

When Is Drip Irrigation the Best Choice?

Drip irrigation systems are popular, as they are highly efficient for creating high yields while also conserving water resources.

Sold by irrigation system services everywhere, they can essentially be used in any irrigation situation as they are extremely scalable and can be modified in countless ways.

Yet drip systems can be more expensive, so they are generally not ideal for massive-scale operations.

 

When are drip irrigation systems the best option for keeping plants hydrated and producing?

Read these tips on ideal situations when drip irrigation is the best and most cost-effective option for farmers in need of irrigation system services.

  • Home and Small Gardens - Due to their easy scalability, the ease in which irrigation system repair can be done and their affordability on the smaller scale, drip irrigation systems are the perfect solution for backyard home gardens and other smaller acreages for keeping plants well hydrated.
  • Vegetable Row Crops - On a grander scale, drip irrigation systems are also perfect for commercial vegetable row crops like tomatoes, beans, squash, and similar, as setting up these systems to deliver water directly to each plant is easy. As these crops require a certain amount of space between each plant, drip tapes and lines put the water only where it is needed.
  • Specialty Crops - Fruits and specialty vegetables that require well-managed irrigation also thrive with drip systems purchased from irrigation system services that provide a variety of watering solutions. Berries grown in rows or on vines stay healthier and produce more when properly fed by properly designed drip and seepage systems.
  • Orchards - Tree and bush crops grown in orchards also benefit from drip irrigation, as drip tubes can be suspended to drip right at the base of the plant. Keeping the soil around the roots constantly hydrated prevents the stress that can negatively affect orchard yield.
  • Low Water Resources - While any of the above crops can be irrigated in other ways, drip irrigation systems are preferable when water resources are low or evaporation is possible.

In delivering water slowly yet constantly to the base of each individual plant, drip irrigation systems are an economical, and environmentally-friendly choice for achieving high yields in challenging growing conditions.

Drip irrigation allows growers to stretch available water resources further, resulting in a more economical outcome with less need for irrigatioin system repair regardless of the higher initial per acre cost of the system.

Anyone needing solutions for irrigating the types of crops mentioned above can contact a local irrigation system service to plan the perfect drip system for their operation.

How to Easily Select The Right Irrigation System Services

Those who own a farm are often required to keep up with an incredible number of maintenance and repair needs at various points in time.

This is traditionally a requirement that is seen as being very challenging to contend with and work through while ensuring all facets of the farm are kept as properly irrigated as possible.

Owners who are contending with this need should be capable of easily selecting the right ag irrigation system services to guide their efforts. 

You Need Agricultural Irrigation System Services

Agricultural irrigation system services are often heavily looked to by farm owners for a multitude of reasons.

There are many owners who focus on other things and may even have other jobs to work and therefore need experienced and veteran agricultural irrigation services to keep crops growing properly. 
 
Farmers in most major agricultural areas have a wealth of ag irrigation system services to choose from when needed.

Yet it can be very complicated for a farm owner to sort through the many ag irrigation system services that are offered, which is why keeping various factors in mind helps farmers make the very best choice possible for their needs. 

Select Only Professional Ag Irrigation System Services

This is a hiring that should only be focused on professionals who offer a detailed and initial consultation that focuses on providing an estimate of what the current crops need for successful hydration and growth.

Seek out a professional who is equipped with the latest in what technology has to offer in the field of irrigation systems.

There are various forms of farm irrigation systems that are currently available that are all quite effective in what they offer to the farming process.

Professionals versed in the latest technologies and procedures are usually the best to consider and should also offer system maintenance as needed. 

Having a successful farm requires a fully functional and always operative ag irrigation system for various reasons properly maintained  by professionals who are prepared to keep the system fully maintained at all times. 

Cost Factor for Agricultural Irrigation Systems

Finally, the right agricultural irrigation system services is one that is affordable and competitively priced along with discounted rates on all supplies that may be needed. 

This will ensure having your irrigation systems ready to function when you need them!