Landscape and Irrigation is read by decision makers throughout the landscape and irrigation markets — including contractors, landscape architects, professional grounds managers, and irrigation and water mgmt companies and reaches the entire spetrum.
Issue link: https://read.dmtmag.com/i/29135
helping to prevent clogging due to increased sediments and other contaminants present in the various water types. Disk filters are excellent at catching sediments while resisting chemical elements in water. They are easy to extract and clean with a hose then re- place back into the filter housing. Mesh filters are also beneficial and can be easily removed and replaced if sediment has accumu- lated. When choosing a filter, look for a large filter area, which will allow longer intervals between cleaning. Step 4: In each valve zone, check fittings to make sure each has a secure connection If tubing is popping out of the fitting, make sure the right size fitting is used on the right size tubing. Different manufacturers make different-diameter tubing. It is important to know your tub- ing ID (inner diameter) if using barb fittings or OD (outer diame- ter) if using compression fittings. Using the wrong size fitting for your tubing diameter can result in a faulty connection. It only takes one blown connection to lose a substantial amount of water. Assuming the pressure is regulated, high-quality fittings do not blow apart since the compression rings are inserted to the fittings and welded. The weld secures the fitting to the compression ring, which results in a longer field life. Fittings using high-impact ma- terial will stand up to foot traffic, and weather extremes. Step 5: Repair leaks marked with landscape paint or flags When repairing tubing, cut out all the tubing with damaged parts. This will allow the fitting to slip onto the distribution line. One challenge repairing tubing installed a few years is that the sun and internal pressure change the outside diameter of the product. Sometimes, getting a fitting to slip onto existing tubing can be dif- ficult if the cut is made too close to the warped/damaged tubing. To get a sturdy repair, use a patch of new tubing and connect it to the undamaged part in the line so that the fitting easily slips on to provide a secure connection. After the repairs are complete, open the closed end of the line and flush the line of all sediments and debris that can accumulate in the tubing. Re-pressurize the lines, run irrigation once more, and check for leaks again. Step 6: Cover drip irrigation tubing with mulch Take care to cover bare spots where tubing is exposed. Mulch is great for conserving water by helping to prevent evaporation, and also reduces weed growth. For aesthetic purposes, drip irrigation systems can be easily in- stalled to become virtually invisible among the landscape. Tubing and emitters should be hidden in a landscape and not poking out like plastic sticks and weeds. Proper use of mulch and placement of emitters can significantly cut down on unsightly exposed com- ponents. A tidy, well-maintained drip irrigation system is a lot eas- www.landscapeirrigation.com Landscape and Irrigation 9 ier on the eyes than unsightly bare spots, puddles and wilting plants. Your client will definitely notice eyesores, so it is best to keep the system maintained, the landscape looking good, and the client happy. To be successful in this market, keeping clients happy means repairing obvious imperfections that make the site look less than professionally maintained. When maintaining or installing a drip system, it would be pru- dent to use commercial-grade plastic products that can withstand poor water quality, UV exposure, and varying climatic changes. Commercial-grade plastics are impact resistant and will add to the longevity of a drip system. An entire system built with low-grade components will break down much more quickly, and even re- placing the entire system might be needed. LI Nina Colasurdo is commercial sales — Southern California for DIG Corporation. For more information, visit www.digcorp.com.