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IRRIGATION AND WATER MANAGEMENT Other signs of replacement include water leaking through weakened connections, distortion of exterior motor components or housing, degradation in pumping efficiency or flow, and units that employ dated technology. With industry advancements in wa- ter management and energy efficiency, older motors are not in line with the efficiency standards of newer premium efficient models. Sometimes it can be possible to retrofit units with new pumps and motors, as well as upgrade the control panel, but many times there are compatibility issues making full replacement the only option. TECHNOLOGY During the past 30 years, irrigation and pump technology has im- proved considerably, with the biggest advancements in controls. Irrigation controllers such as aging electro-mechanical were engineered with no program flexibility, but newer digital units are highly customizable to meet any variety of water needs making them adaptable to local water conservation guidelines and per- sonalized landscape designs. This customization ensures that each micro-climate remains watered to optimal levels, while conserving where possible. More advanced systems even use satellite weather data to provide the user with daily evapotranspiration values to better manage water use. New pump software programs manage power and efficiency better than ever before with the use of variable frequency drives (VFD). VFD technology enables the control of the AC motor speed and torque by varying the input frequency and voltage to match the system demands. As demand increases, the VFD speeds up, which improves control efficiency and optimizes flow. These pump software programs and better integration with irrigation controls can make today's pump stations up to 30 percent more efficient than those from 20 years ago. REPLACEMENT If a station is in need of replacement, the best time to schedule it is when the unit is not in high demand, usually the winter. Even if the pump station needs to be replaced during the summer months, su- perintendents or operators will seek other options to avoid down- time on their courses. Often, superintendents or operators will work with their pump service providers on a short-term fix until the end of the season. It typically takes two to three days to remove an old station and install the new one. A welder, electrician and pump service technician will need to be onsite to ensure proper fit and operation. The technological advantages of today's pump stations make re- placement a good option for many courses or properties with aging units. Assess the units to weigh the cost of upgrading against the cost of a repair and maintenance of the current station(s). Additionally, updated systems also contribute to increased energy efficiency and result in cost savings. Contact a sales provider to discuss the custom- izable and programmable options that are available. Dan Gregg is the central regional sales manager for Flowtronex Prepackaged Pump Stations, a Xylem Applied Water Systems brand. He is a registered landscape architect, Texas Licensed Irrigator and EPA Water Sense partner with more than 35 years of experience in landscape irrigation design, consultation and sales. www.landscapeirrigation.com Smart Irrigation Special Edition 17 LI The technological advantages of today's pump stations make replacement a good option for many courses or properties with aging units.