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Opening Golf to the World
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Irrigation System: Maintenance and Servicing
Regular maintenance and checking the operation of the system is essential, especially in areas/times when the system is not being used on a daily basis.
Regular maintenance and checking the operation of the system is essential, especially in areas/times when the system is not being used on a daily basis. Routine weekly and monthly maintenance should ensure that small problems can be identified and corrected before they lead to larger and more costly issues. Failure to perform regular maintenance may mean that a component has to be replaced before or, as a worst case, the entire irrigation system may need complete replacement prematurely.
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Weekly:
  • Observe the condition of the golf course (identifying stressed areas) and ensure the irrigation system correctly operates manually and automatically (from the central controller)
  • Check for the correct operation of any water supply and transfer systems such as boreholes or abstraction ponds/tanks. Keep a log of water usage as required by any licence/governing body
  • Check for the correct operation of pump station
Monthly:
  • Monitor water usage and check all irrigation system water meters to ensure correct operation. Keep a detailed log of readings even if not required by the licence/governing body and ensure that the water usage matches the irrigation control system data/display. Monitor for any significant discrepancies in the recorded water usage
  • Carry out a general inspection of water storage and pump station
  • Operate pump station isolation valves (when pumps are not operational) to prevent seizing.
  • Carry out a general inspection of pipework (where possible), isolation valves, solenoid valves, manual hydrant points etc. and valve box condition
  • Check sprinklers for correct rotation, arc, spray pattern, i.e. blocked nozzles
  • Check sprinklers for physical damage
  • Check system controller for correct operation and ensure all data files are backed up
  • Check weather station and soil moisture sensors for readings and condition. Some sensors may require yearly calibration to ensure accuracy of results.