Irrigation Facts to Consider

Irrigation Equipment: Key Considerations

  • Hire a professional irrigation designer to ensure your system suits your plants and soil.
  • Use efficient micro-irrigation emitters wherever possible.
  • Install an irrigation controller with multiple programs, seasonal adjustments, and a rain sensor. Consider adding soil moisture sensors.
  • Apply mulch around your plants to conserve soil moisture.
  • Irrigate to promote deep root growth—but avoid overwatering.
  • Monitor your water usage and seek expert advice if needed.
  • Inspect and clean system components at the start and end of each irrigation season to keep everything working efficiently.

Filtration: Why It Matters

A single, effective filter is easier to clean than multiple emitters—and it protects all downstream components. Here are the main types of filters used in irrigation systems:

1. Screen Filters

  • Best for relatively clean water (e.g., city water).
  • Not suitable where organic material like algae is present.
  • Consist of a plastic or stainless steel mesh.
  • Require regular manual cleaning based on clogging.

2. Disc Filters

  • Made from grooved plastic discs stacked in a cartridge.
  • Grooves capture contaminants over time.
  • Discs need to be removed and cleaned individually.

3. Sand Media Filters

  • Pressurized tanks filled with sand.
  • Ideal for water with high organic content.
  • Sand grain size depends on emitter orifice size.

4. Sand Separators

  • Not true filters.
  • Use centrifugal force to separate heavier particles.
  • Particles collect at the base and can be removed.

Note:
For residential gardens, screen and disc filters are most common. For large-scale agricultural or commercial systems, any of the four types may be used.

Choosing the Right Filter

When selecting a filter, consider:

  • The minimum orifice size of your emitters
  • The type of particles in your water (organic or inorganic)

Filter ratings are measured in microns or mesh (holes per inch). Below is a general guide:

Filter Guidelines by Emitter Type

Drip Irrigation

  • Smallest pathways: ~0.024”
  • If organic matter is present → use 75 micron / 200 mesh
  • If only inorganic matter → 175 micron / 80 mesh

Jets and Sprayers

  • Minimum orifice: ~0.032”
  • For organic matter → 100 micron / 150 mesh
  • For inorganic matter only → 250 micron / 60 mesh

Mini Sprinklers

  • Minimum orifice: ~0.06”
  • For organic matter → 175 micron / 80 mesh
  • For inorganic only → 500 micron / 35 mesh

If you're unsure about your water quality or emitter specs, consult a certified irrigation specialist.

Winterization

In regions with freezing temperatures, winterizing your irrigation system is essential to prevent damage from expanding ice. This can be done by:

  • Draining the system completely, or
  • Using compressed air to purge water from the lines

⚠️ Important: If using compressed air, Antelco recommends hiring a licensed contractor to avoid damage or injury.

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