7 minute read
Understanding the parts that build an irrigation system
In times where water is considered to be a scarce and valuable commodity, we should take every measure we can to preserve it. However, this does not mean that you have to neglect your garden. Understand garden irrigation better through this practical guide.
MICRO IRRIGATION
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Using micro irrigation is a solution for areas where water is scarce. Micro irrigation allows for lower pressure and flow than a traditional irrigation system. The low flow of water allows for nutrients to be better absorbed by the ground and there is no water runoff which wastes water. These systems are sometimes available in a starter kit that has all the products necessary to start a micro irrigation system at home.
DRIPPERS
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Dripping is another form of micro irrigation that can be used as a more water conscious way of irrigating a garden. A dripper system consists of a pipe or hose that has holes made into it and placed on the surface of the ground to slowly release water into the ground as it is needed. Drip pipe is available in a range of shapes and sizes depending on the specific requirements of the end user, even though the basic concept would remain the same. Another important advantage of drip irrigation is that it is corrosion resistant, allowing the use of chemicals, fertilisers and herbicides. Also, the irrigation system offers reliable performance that requires very little or no maintenance.
SPRAYERS
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Typically, a sprayer offers a larger volume of water than micro irrigation or dripping. This might be necessary in parts of a garden which are more densely grown or for plants which require more water. There are various types of sprayers which can be used for different purposes. Micro sprayers allow for a lower pressure and volume spray. These can be used as part of a micro irrigation system. The micro sprayers are useful in gardens to provide a low volume of water and prevent any water wastage.
CONNECTOR AND SPRAYERS
Connectors and sprayers can all be used to connect to a garden hose to spray the garden either by hand or placing the sprayer in the garden. This is a manual method of watering the garden and the user will have more control over which areas get water and also the volume of water being used.
PIPE
There are three types of piping that are generally used namely, galvanised piping (silver in appearance), copper piping (bronze in appearance) and PVC/plastic piping (usually blue or Black in colour). If the main water source also supplies the house, then it usually can be determined what pipe type it is at the location in which it enters the home. If not, then it’s time to get hands dirty and dig down to the pipe to see which type of pipe is in place.
HOSEPIPES
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Hosepipes typically come in various lengths and you are able to choose a length which will suit particular gardening needs. Hosepipes are available in different diameters, lengths – with or without connectors.
PIPE CONNECTORS
Hose pipe connectors are used to connect the end of the hose to tap connectors. Hose connectors are also used to extend or connect two pieces of pipe together, or to divide a pipe in two opposite directions if you wish to lengthen the pipe.
TIMERS AND REGULATORS
Timers are devices which can be connected to an irrigation system to automatically set the time for the garden’s irrigation system to begin as well as the duration required. This makes it more convenient to always make sure your garden is hydrated. Various types of timers are available and each offers different functions for example having a wireless timer that can be controlled on a smartphone, or a manual timer that is connected to a garden tap.
This range of garden irrigation timers and regulators are available through Agrinet.
ORBIT CONTROLLER TAP
Easy to install to any outdoor tap. Battery-operated automatic timer and valve combination. Set two dials for start time and watering duration. Large easy to read dials. Ten watering interval options from every two hours to once per week.
Orbit buddy tap single port timer
The Buddy is a fully automatic garden watering unit that turns a tap into a sprinkler system. No digging is required to easily install this watering system. Connects to standard 20mm garden tap with BSP thread with an independent watering programme.
Orbit buddy 2 tap double port timer
The buddy 2 double is a fully automatic garden watering unit that also turns a tap into a sprinkler system. No digging is required to install this watering system. Connects to standard 20mm connection with two outlets with two independent watering programmes.
Orbit controller 12 ST B-Hyve Wi-Fi timer
The B-hyve Wi-Fi Sprinkler Timer allows the user to water smarter. Make watering decisions based on the ecological needs of a garden and control the entire process from a phone. A large LCD screen is located on the timer and provides all the details needed by the user. Access your timer from the app or at the timer. B-hyve is the only smart timer with controls on the timer.
The unit Includes:
• Screw down, stainless-steel terminals for secure connection, without worry from rust damage
• Powerful 2.4Ghz band Wi-Fi, with ranges up to 200 feet (60.96 metres)
• Locking, weather sealed indoor/outdoor case means you can confidently mount your timer anywhere
• Works with all major brands of pumps (relay required)
• Add increased weather detection with optional rain/freeze sensors (not included).
FEATURES
• Watering History: Know when the timer has watered and for how long, with detailed zone reports
• Real Time Monitoring: Monitor the timer’s progress as it happens. The B-hyve app provides all the details
• Real Time Updates: Get all the details on when your smart timer plans on watering next
• Smart and Manual Scheduling: Use Smart watering, manual or a combination of both for watering restrictions. Tell the app when you can and cannot water
• Forward Looking Calendar: Look ahead to see what the timer’s smart watering has planned.
IRRIGATION SYSTEM ACCESSORIES
There are various accessories which can be used in irrigation systems. Each accessory offers additional benefits to the irrigation system in a garden. These accessories include: valves, manifolds, valve boxes, adaptors, rain sensors etc.
Valves
There are many types, sizes and varieties of materials available. Deciding on what valve you need for your garden will be based on what you will be using it for.
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Manifold
A pipe branching into several openings. As the definition suggests, an irrigation manifold is a pipe that branches into several openings, in this case to deliver water to multiple irrigation valves. The manifold is typically fed by pipe or tubing that is tapped directly into the house’s water supply, but it is also possible to supply it by a faucet or hose connection.
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Valve box
The manifold and valves are usually buried under ground in a valve box. This protects the valves from the elements and allows easy access for maintenance and repairs. Valve boxes come in a variety of shapes and sizes to fit the needs of the system. From round to rectangle, to as small as six inches (15.24cm) or as large as twenty-one inches (53.34cm), a valve box can be found to fit almost any common residential setup.
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Rain sensor
A rain sensor is a switching device activated by rainfall. The main application is a water conservation device connected to an automatic irrigation system that causes the system to shut down in the event of rainfall.
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