How to Replace Micro Irrigation Sprayers

Micro irrigation systems--also known as "drip," "trickle" or "spray" irrigation--use small amounts of water under low pressure, whereas sprinkler irrigation shoots much more water at greater pressure. As a result, micro irrigation systems are much more efficient and "water smart" than other irrigation methods, and in some areas are exempt from drought-induced water restrictions. These systems are becoming more available to the average homeowner and gardener. Here's how to maintain them.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Replacement sprayers
• Replacement nozzles
• Flow indicator flags (if necessary)

Diagnose the Problem

1. Diagnose the problem with the system. In most cases, clogging of tubes or nozzles is the main culprit because of the relative small gauge of these parts. Because the tubing is on or under the ground, you may have to lift the tubing to thoroughly check the water flow.

2. Install an indicator to see which emitters are working. Small indicators that raise and lower a flag to show when water is flowing through an emitter make it easy to find which ones are working, as underground watering is hard to spot. These indicators vary by manufacturer, but they are generally simple to install.

Remove and Replace Sprayers and Nozzles

3. Remove nozzles and sprayers by popping or twisting them off. These tiny pieces may be clogged with sediment, dirt or hard water deposits. Be careful not to damage the delicate tubing when removing or replacing them.

4. Clean the nozzles and sprays. Briefly soak them in a bleach solution to remove hard water buildup and other debris. If this doesn't solve the problem, simply replace them.

5. Replace the nozzles and sprays the same way you removed them. Flush the system according to the manufacturer's specifications to complete the process.

Tips & Warnings

• Micro-spray emitters are often color coded by the amount of water flow they can accommodate, but each brand has its own code. It's wise to get all of your emitters from the same manufacturer.
• Filter your water as well as possible to avoid clogging the fine tubing that micro irrigation uses. Otherwise, your system will run into problems more quickly than regular irrigation sprinklers.
• Because micro irrigation systems are on the ground or just under the surface, they are susceptible to getting pulled or damaged by children, pets or gardening. Anchor the micro irrigation tubing to the ground to avoid this.
• Don't mix regular sprinklers with drip systems in the same irrigation zone, as they use different water pressures.