The irrigation system is important for a number of reasons. The water pressure in the system is a major factor that determines the effectiveness of the entire system.
If the water pressure is too low, there is little chance of the system efficiently serving its purpose. You need to take proper measures to ensure that the pressure is high.
Some of the ways in which you can increase the water pressure in an irrigation system include:
1. Elevation of Water Line
Water pressure drops by 0.433 psi (the unit to measure pressure) for every 1 foot. That is why it is important to keep the water line higher than that of the rest of the system. This will avoid a drop in the water pressure.
In fact, for every 1-foot rise, water pressure increases by 0.433 psi, thus, you will actually be able to increase pressure by elevating the waterline. Also, make sure to regularly check the pressure indicators on the regulator installed on the waterline.
This will allow you to keep a close watch on the water pressure. In case it drops despite proper installation and maintenance of the system, you need to carefully go through everything to figure out the cause and solutions.
2. Maintaining the Sprinkler Heads
A major cause for a drop in water pressure is that the heads are not properly adjusted. To increase water pressure in the system, you need to examine the sprinkler heads and adjust them properly.
Sometimes, just turning the sprinkler heads anti-clockwise will be enough to increase the pressure and flow of water from them. Also, make sure that they are clean. There is a possibility of the sprinkler heads being clogged up with dirt which prevents the water pressure from flowing properly.
All you need to do is take the heads out from the riser and open them before cleaning the filter thoroughly. Once the filter is clean, place the heads back and you should get a stronger water flow.
3. Replace Damaged Heads
If, during your inspection, you notice any sign of damage on the sprinkler heads, you need to replace them immediately. Even the tiniest of cracks can cause leaks which reduce the pressure in the system and the flow of water becomes weak. It also leads to a lot of water wastage.
Similarly, you need to change any other part in the system that shows even the slightest sign of damage. Cocky Valve is a great place to find accessories for your irrigation system.
Also, you should reduce the number of sprinkler heads in the system. The more heads there are, the lower the water pressure will be. There is generally no use in having too many heads as maintaining a couple will ensure a stronger flow of water and thus, more effectiveness.
Try to maintain only 1-2 heads per region as that would ensure a stronger water flow because of higher pressure.
4. Install a Boost Pump
Despite taking all the above steps, you might not get the desired results because of a number of factors. your control. One of the best ways to tackle this problem and ensure high water pressure is to install a booster pump on the main water line. A boost pump increases the flow of water through the line and will help your irrigation system become more effective.
You might have a problem with the pump increasing your electricity costs. If the pump is running constantly, you will see an increase in the costs. You won’t require the pump to boost pressure at all times so using it constantly will be a waste of resources.
To tackle this, you can install a pump start relay. This will make the boost pump operate only when a part of the system requires a higher water pressure.
Over to you…
Maintaining a high-water pressure is important as that leads to the irrigation system being more effective. All the steps mentioned above are some of the best ways for you to get high pressure in the system and boost its efficiency.
