Irrigation Controller Maintenance
What is an Irrigation Controller?
The controller used for irrigation is a device which controls the operations of an automatic irrigation system. Some examples of irrigation systems that make use of controllers are sprinkles and drip irrigation. The irrigation controller is meant to set the frequency as well as the time it would start and how long it would water a certain area. There are simple controllers and there are those that have more features and multiple functions and programs. This complexity allows different frequencies of watering depending on the type of plants it would water. It also has settings that would work with the rainy season and sensors that would detect rain and freezing temperatures, moisture in soil, data about the weather, and more.
Basically, there are two types of irrigation controllers. One is electric, and the other is hydraulic. Nowadays, the latest types of systems used for irrigation make use of electronic or electromechanical controllers wherein the controller is connected to the electrical circuit. This then operates what is called a solenoid which is attached to solenoid valves. The solenoid, when it has been actuated, promotes relief to the water from rising about the diaphragm, thus, making the valve open.
Proper Maintenance of an Irrigation Controller
Upon initial installation of an irrigation controller, it is highly necessary to give it a thorough check before running it. This should also be done every before growing season as the length of time that it has remained idle might have caused some stuck up problems. When having one installed, make sure to keep the manual of the controller. All information needed is there. If you have lost it, you can check their website or any link online that may have downloadable versions of the manual for the specific type that you have. Here are some steps you should perform in checking your controllers:
Check the cabinet of the controller and remove any dirt inside that might cause it not to work properly.
Check the battery as well and purchase a new one if it is time for a replacement.
It is also important to check the wirings and to repair anything that has been cut or loosened.
Make sure all sensors are attached properly. If it does not have one, consider an installation as this will make it more convenient for you plus your plants will get appropriate watering in appropriate frequencies.
Make sure all settings are correct, even the date and time, to avoid delays on the watering schedules.
Set a schedule for watering your plants. If you are unsure about this, you can inquire at the local agriculture office for information about the necessary watering schedule for the type of plants that you have and the type of watering applicable for the weather within your specific location.
Maintenance Checklist for Irrigation Controllers
An irrigation system is very helpful especially if you are managing a large area of growing plants. The controller makes things even easier and more convenient for you which is why it is important to maintain it the best that you can. Here is a summary of the things you must do and follow to ensure optimum irrigation system and controller performance:
o Keep you irrigation controller manual handy in case you would need it and familiarize yourself with its contents to make maintenance a much simpler task.
o Check inside the cabinet of the controller and make sure it is clean and that the battery is still functional.
o Make sure that the all wirings are in good shape and if there are those that are not, apply necessary repairs.
o Check the settings for the time and date of the watering schedule and make sure it is updated. Create a schedule that is appropriate for the type of plants that you have and your local weather situation.
The controller used for irrigation is a device which controls the operations of an automatic irrigation system. Some examples of irrigation systems that make use of controllers are sprinkles and drip irrigation. The irrigation controller is meant to set the frequency as well as the time it would start and how long it would water a certain area. There are simple controllers and there are those that have more features and multiple functions and programs. This complexity allows different frequencies of watering depending on the type of plants it would water. It also has settings that would work with the rainy season and sensors that would detect rain and freezing temperatures, moisture in soil, data about the weather, and more.
Basically, there are two types of irrigation controllers. One is electric, and the other is hydraulic. Nowadays, the latest types of systems used for irrigation make use of electronic or electromechanical controllers wherein the controller is connected to the electrical circuit. This then operates what is called a solenoid which is attached to solenoid valves. The solenoid, when it has been actuated, promotes relief to the water from rising about the diaphragm, thus, making the valve open.
Proper Maintenance of an Irrigation Controller
Upon initial installation of an irrigation controller, it is highly necessary to give it a thorough check before running it. This should also be done every before growing season as the length of time that it has remained idle might have caused some stuck up problems. When having one installed, make sure to keep the manual of the controller. All information needed is there. If you have lost it, you can check their website or any link online that may have downloadable versions of the manual for the specific type that you have. Here are some steps you should perform in checking your controllers:
Check the cabinet of the controller and remove any dirt inside that might cause it not to work properly.
Check the battery as well and purchase a new one if it is time for a replacement.
It is also important to check the wirings and to repair anything that has been cut or loosened.
Make sure all sensors are attached properly. If it does not have one, consider an installation as this will make it more convenient for you plus your plants will get appropriate watering in appropriate frequencies.
Make sure all settings are correct, even the date and time, to avoid delays on the watering schedules.
Set a schedule for watering your plants. If you are unsure about this, you can inquire at the local agriculture office for information about the necessary watering schedule for the type of plants that you have and the type of watering applicable for the weather within your specific location.
Maintenance Checklist for Irrigation Controllers
An irrigation system is very helpful especially if you are managing a large area of growing plants. The controller makes things even easier and more convenient for you which is why it is important to maintain it the best that you can. Here is a summary of the things you must do and follow to ensure optimum irrigation system and controller performance:
o Keep you irrigation controller manual handy in case you would need it and familiarize yourself with its contents to make maintenance a much simpler task.
o Check inside the cabinet of the controller and make sure it is clean and that the battery is still functional.
o Make sure that the all wirings are in good shape and if there are those that are not, apply necessary repairs.
o Check the settings for the time and date of the watering schedule and make sure it is updated. Create a schedule that is appropriate for the type of plants that you have and your local weather situation.