Gadsden County Extension Column

From storage to service: How to prep irrigation and sprayers for spring

As winter comes to an end and spring planting approaches, farmers in Gadsden County need to make sure irrigation and spraying equipment is ready to go. After sitting idle for months, pumps, pivots, sprayers, and nozzles can develop problems that lead to costly delays. A little time spent now can prevent breakdowns later and help ensure your crops get the water and protection they need.

Start with careful inspection. Walk through your irrigation system and look for cracks or leaks in pipes, hoses, and fittings. Cold weather and age can damage seals and gaskets, so replace any that look worn. On pivots and drip systems, check emitters and sprinklers for clogs or broken parts. For sprayers, inspect the tank for cracks and make sure the lid seals tightly.

Don’t forget the pump and motor. Check oil levels, belts, and bearings. If the pump was drained for winter, refill it and tighten all connections. Look over electrical components for corrosion or loose wires. If you’re unsure about the condition of your pump or motor, consider having a qualified technician check it before startup.

Next, flush and clean everything. Sediment and chemical residue can build up during storage. Run clean water through irrigation lines to clear debris. For sprayers, rinse the tank thoroughly and flush hoses and nozzles. UF/IFAS recommends using a tank cleaner if herbicides or pesticides were left in the system last season. This helps prevent crop injury and contamination.

Pay special attention to nozzles. Remove them and soak in warm water with mild detergent, then scrub gently with a soft brush. Worn nozzle tips can change spray patterns and lead to uneven coverage, so replace any that are damaged or out of spec.

Calibration is another important step. After cleaning, fill the sprayer with water and test the output. Measure nozzle flow and compare it to manufacturer specifications. Adjust pressure or replace nozzles as needed. UF/IFAS Extension provides calibration guides to help farmers apply chemicals accurately and avoid waste. Contact the Gadsden County Extension Office to help with getting your system calibrated properly.

Check filters and screens too. These protect pumps and nozzles from debris. Remove and clean all screens and filters in irrigation and spraying systems. Replace any that are torn or clogged. A clean filter keeps water flowing and prevents costly downtime.

For pivot systems and sprayers, inspect tires for cracks or dry rot and check air pressure.

Grease all moving parts, including bearings and joints. Lubrication reduces wear and extends equipment life.

Once everything is cleaned and inspected, run the system under normal operating pressure. Look for leaks, unusual noises, or uneven spray patterns. Catching problems now saves time and money during the busy planting season.

Safety should always come first. Before applying pesticides or fertilizers, make sure hoses are leak-free and pressure relief valves work properly. Wear protective gear and follow all label directions. If you use restricted-use pesticides, confirm your applicator license is current and follow FDACS regulations.

Planning ahead makes a big difference. Keep spare parts like gaskets, nozzles, and filters on hand. Schedule regular maintenance and keep records of inspections and repairs.

UF/IFAS Extension offers maintenance checklists and troubleshooting guides to help farmers stay organized. Why does this matter? Clean, calibrated equipment saves money and protects crops. A clogged nozzle or leaking hose can lead to uneven watering or chemical application,

reducing yield and increasing pest pressure. By taking time now to prepare, you’ll avoid delays and keep your farm running smoothly when the season starts.

For more information on irrigation and sprayer maintenance, contact the Gadsden County Extension Office or visit UF/IFAS online at https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu. With proper care and planning, your equipment will be ready to deliver the water and protection your crops need for a successful year. Robbie Jones is the Agriculture and Natural Resources Agent/County Extension Director for UF/IFAS Extension Gadsden County.

Gadsden County Extension Column

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