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.