Inline emitters can be difficult to clean (unclog). If there is a clogged section, we recommend cutting out and replacing it with new cut HDL piece. Filter maintenance is very important and can prevent this from occurring more often. We recommend removing and cleaning the filter screen/disc periodically. If the clogging is occurring at short intervals, we would recommend a more fine mesh size filter.
Flushing inline drip irrigation systems is a crucial maintenance procedure. If used, automatic flushing valves help avoid, but may not prevent, particulate build-up. At a minimum, manual flushing and visual inspection of the water is recommended annually. To manually flush a system with automatic flush valves, disassemble or remove the flush valves first.
Injection systems are relatively inexpensive, provide an easy-to-use way to apply a wide variety of solutions, and add great flexibility to maintaining inline drip irrigation tubing. Mild solutions of chlorine or acid can be applied to treat potential biological growth or water quality problems. Water with significant amounts of dissolved minerals (hard water) may leave calcium deposits, which over time restrict or impede water flow. When designing for systems with hard water, consider an injection system to allow periodic applications of a mildly acidic solution to dissolve these deposits
In areas with freezing climates, winterization is needed to remove enough water from the irrigation system to ensure freezing and expansion of water do not crack the components. This should be done with a high-volume air compressor. Open all manual flush valves and disassemble all automatic flush valves. Ensure the pressure when blowing out the system does not exceed 50 PSI. It’s the volume of air, not pressure, which effectively removes water. Note: The pressure regulator installed with an irrigation system will not regulate air pressure.
Inline drip tubing is easy to repair:
- Locate the point of damage by tracing any visible water back to the break or puncture.
- Expose the line and cut out the damaged portion.
- Run the system to thoroughly flush the lines from both sides.
- Install a barbed connector to rejoin the line, or splice in a new segment of inline drip tubing.
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