Concerning various types of irrigation systems, the functionality of specific outside components is very vital to achieving high efficiency in your irrigation system and possibly avoiding probable costly damages. Of all these essential components, the non-return valve, commonly known as the check valve, is quite crucial to the welfare of the irrigation system. This particular type of valve regulates the flow of water whereby it only
moves in one direction and not on the contrary, which would possibly be detrimental to the operations of that particular system. To ensure that you do not have to break operations due to damage in your non-return valve, you must be able to discern when it is time for a replacement. Here are some signs that suggest that the time has come to examine your non-return valve and, in the worst-case scenario, replace it.
Water Backflow
Some signs indicate that your non-return valve may be faulty, and one of them includes water backflow. This is where such a mechanism as the non-return valve protects from such an outcome. In case there is water flowing in a direction that cuts across from one point to another, this may indicate that the valve is not doing its job. They may result in backflow of water, which may cause pollution of your water in case you are using well water or a recirculating system.
Water Leakage
Another clear sign is water leakage around the area of the valve. Occasionally, leakage might be as a result of normal use and installation of the valve; severe or consistent leakage means that the valve seals are probably damaged. As well as this, it may lead to wastage of water and added strain on the irrigation system, which will possibly worsen the problem.
Reduced Water Pressure
One of the changes in the water flow that can be indicative of a problem is that there is a lowered sensation of pressure which to some extent can suggest that your non-return valve is only partly stuck or blocked. This is because this obstruction can block the water flow and hence affect the efficiency of the irrigation system. In the course of time, sediment or dirt might accumulate and block this channel, and to fully rectify the problem, one may have to check for the efficiency of the valve and/or replace the valve.
Irregular Operation
In case of such symptoms as irregular functionality of the irrigation system inclusive of uneven water supply or flawed shut-off to and fro, one can be assured that the non-return valve is quizzes. These erratic behaviours can be attributed to a faulty valve because the valve does not regulate pressure and flow rate effectively in the system. However, these problems should not be allowed to reach these extremes; regular maintenance checks will help in the identification of these problems.
Visible Wear and Tear
With time, the non-return valve frame that is used in the development of this machine may experience some wear and tear and might end up being compromised. One should check for any form of corrosion or any signs of crack or any form of damage that may be observed on the valve. Such symptoms may be signs that the valve has almost reached the terminal time it can be used, thus it needs to be replaced not to worsen the system.
Noise
Abnormal sounds, including whistles or hisses, which are produced in the valve region, also point to the possible development of the problem. These sounds usually suggest that there is a leakage of air through the valve or water leakage past the seal. Each of them points to the fact that the valve seems to be leaking and may require replacement in order to make the system work with fewer noises.
Corrosion
There is always a tendency for irrigation systems to corrode, especially when the area is mostly wet or when the type of water used is sensitive to corrosion. When the non-return valve develops a sign of rust or corrosion, it becomes very imperative to replace it. The valve may rust and corrode in some parts and in turn, lead to the poor functioning of the valve.
Frequent Maintenance Needs
If the non-return valve needs constant readjustment or repair, it would prove economical to replace the valve. The constant maintenance might be one of the indicators that the valve is about to be depleted from its useful life, and it is more dangerous to attempt a repair than to purchase a new one.
Conclusion
It is thus important that everyone in this case not only realise that their non-return valve needs replacement but also do so in good time to avoid complications regarding their irrigation system. Such problems should ideally be detected and attended to as they are early signs of more severe problems in the future. Any of the above-mentioned symptoms may be a sign that it is time to change your non-return valve to make your system work efficiently.
It is important to know some types of irrigation valves if you are looking forward to replacing your non-return valve. Several types of valves are used in your irrigation system and it is understandable that each of them has irrigation plants.
