As we emerge from the Winter season we are all ready to burst into Spring and begin enjoying some warmer conditions and lighter mornings. The winter rain has encouraged the plants in the garden to grow and lawn to become greener but as we head towards Summer we can expect rainfall to steadily decrease until next February.
Above data “Perth monthly rainfall” courtesy of Water Corp
Is your reticulation system ready for action?
With the winter sprinkler ban behind us we can now consider switching the retic back on after its long hibernation. But is it still working?
Lance Hoffman from Addwater
According to Lance Hoffman from Addwater there are many common issues that property owners experience when attempting to switch on irrigation systems once again in Spring.
These include:
- Leaks
- Broken or clogged sprinkler heads
- Faulty reticulation controllers
- Low water pressure
- Zones not working
“It’s not always easy to find the source of the problem” says Lance. “Property owners generally don’t have the time to properly investigate the nature of issues or own the correct tools for the job” added Lance. “This can mean repeat visits to your garden centre which can prove expensive, frustrating and time consuming. To add to the expense, Water rates have seen a steady increase over recent years so water leaks on your irrigation system can also prove expensive through water wastage if not identified and repaired quickly.”
Recommendations
Lance suggests the following Spring tips for property owners:
- Switch on your reticulation system and carry out a test cycle
- Visually check all sprinkler heads are working through the test cycle
- Check timer on controller is working and program system to operate for your nominated watering days.
“If you experience any issues with your reticulation system that you don’t feel confident to fix yourself it will definitely be more cost effective to call in a professional” recommends Lance.
Don’t know your watering days in Perth?
You can find them here http://www.watercorporation.com.au/save-water/watering-days
Watering tips
- Sprinklers can only be used between 6pm and 9am on your watering days
- Remember to only water once on your watering days
- Watering in the morning is best – water soaks into the roots and is available throughout the day
- Remember to switch off your sprinklers when rain is forecast
You may know your watering days but does your irrigation controller? A waterwise garden irrigator can help you set your irrigation for your rostered watering days.
Need help with your reticulation?
Call 1300 233 249 or visit https://www.addbg.com.au/contact to arrange for Addwater to visit you and check/ repair your system. Addwater can also help you with new reticulation system design, installation and maintenance.
Addwater are based in Perth and are recognised by Water Corp as Waterwise Specialists
