A drip system is only as good as its cleanest emitter.
Why they clog
Sand and silt, algae, bacterial slime, and mineral scale (calcium, iron) from the water.
Routine
- Filter properly: screen or disc filters for most water; sand filter first for dirty or algae-laden water.
- Clean filters regularly and watch the pressure gauge: a falling reading signals clogging.
- Flush lines by opening the ends weekly or fortnightly.
- Treat: occasional acid injection helps against scale; chlorine against algae and slime, following label guidance.
- Check flow at the farthest emitters, not only the nearest.
Before the season
Inspect for rodent damage, UV-cracked tubing and loose connections. Replace emitters rather than keep a poorly watering row.
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