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.