Large-scale irrigation plays a critical role in maintaining agricultural land. For this reason, property owners must know when it’s time to get a new system to avoid losing valuable crops. Look out for the following indications that you should get an irrigation update to ensure you have water when you need it.

When Should You Improve Your Irrigation?

1. Age

Most farming irrigation systems last for around 20,000 hours of use. If you’re watering a crop that needs a lot of moisture, that may be as soon as 10 years after installation. Have an irrigation specialist assess the system every year to ensure your setup is in top shape for as long as possible.

2. Consistent Leaks

Over time, your sprinkler setup may leak, losing pressure water and potentially flooding crops. If you have frequent leaks in different areas, the pipes may be corroded from rust or mineral buildup. Encroaching roots can also force their way into the pipes and render them useless.

While you can likely repair one leaking pipe, you might need a total system replacement if there are a handful of leaks, or if the repairs aren’t holding and the water continues to seep. You may notice these issues if the water bill suddenly increases with no apparent cause, or if the fields are flooded.

3. Frequent Repair Needs

It can be tempting to repair a sprinkler system repeatedly to get the most out of the setup you have. However, if you’re calling for several line breaks in a season, you may want to opt for a replacement to avoid wasting water and money.

4. Low Water Pressure

When you turn on the sprinklers, they should immediately ramp up to provide the necessary output that'll water large swaths of your land. If you notice signs of low water pressure, such as water that's trickling out of the sprinkler heads or heads that don’t have overlapping sprays, your pipes might have narrowed due to hard water buildup or clogs. Ensure you have optimal water efficiency by replacing the irrigation system for a more reliable model that'll water everything without a constant battle to maintain pressure.

If you need a sprinkler upgrade, contact Branton Bros Well Drilling, Inc. in Dothan, AL. This company has served Dale, Henry, Geneva, and Houston counties for 60 years, offering well drilling, pump installations, and repairs. Call (334) 677-5489 to discuss your needs, or visit their website for information on their large-scale well drilling and line laying.