If water isn't released evenly through the drip emitters that are part of the irrigation system that is installed next your garden, removing and unclogging them can be completed by completing the steps below. Afterward, cleaning the filter and routine maintenance steps will prevent additional problems with the system.
Materials
- metal file
- flat head screwdriver
- hand held scrub brush
- soapy water
- pin
- water hose
- bucket
Flush Water Through The Emitters And Dislodge Foreign Materials
Turn on the irrigation system, and use a couple of your fingers to press against the tip of each emitter that is clogged so that water flushes through each one for a minute or two, possibly loosening sediment that is trapped inside. If this does not result in an increased amount of water that is released from the emitters, turn off the irrigation system and remove the emitters. Some irrigation systems have emitters that need to be unscrewed, and other models have emitters that can be popped loose from the valves that they are secured to.
Wedge the tip of a metal file or flat head screwdriver underneath the edge of each emitter to assist with removing all of the pieces if you have difficulty removing them by hand. Insert the end of a pin in each emitter's openings to loosen sediment that is trapped inside of them. Scrub the outside of each emitter with a small brush that has been dipped in water to remove surface stains. Use a water hose to rinse the emitters off before securing each of the pieces to the irrigation system's water valves.
Inspect And Clean The Filter, Maintain The System
Remove the filter from its holder. If it is damaged or extremely soiled, purchase a replacement filter. Otherwise, dip the filter in a bucket of soapy water and move the filter through the water with your hands to loosen dirt. Wipe each side of the filter with a damp sponge. Use a water hose to rinse the filter off and replace the filter in its holder.
Turn on the power to the irrigation system to make sure that it is working properly. Maintain the system by flushing the emitters occasionally and cleaning or replacing the filter as needed. When you plan to cut grass or clip shrubs that are growing close to the irrigation system, cover the emitters with a drop cloth or plastic sheeting to prevent debris from clogging the end of each one. For more help, contact an irrigation repair person from a company like Lush N' Green.
