Irrigation System Installation Problems & Maintenance: A Complete Field Guide

Runnong Irrigation · Field Guide · Updated 2026

1. Common installation problems (and how to avoid them)

These are the recurring issues we see in the field, and how to prevent them at installation time:

• No filter, or a filter that is undersized. Drip emitters clog on sediment, algae, and mineral deposits. Install a filter sized to your system flow — not your pipe diameter — before the first emitter.

• Skipping the flush. New lines contain debris from manufacture and transport. Flush every line before connecting emitters and after repairs.

• Over-long tape runs. Exceeding the tape's maximum run length causes the far end to emit less. Confirm the recommended run length for your tape and pressure.

• Undersized mainline. A mainline that is too small chokes flow and drops pressure across the field. Size the mainline and sub-main for the total zone flow.

• Wrong pressure. Drip tape runs best at low, steady pressure; rain guns need enough pressure to reach their designed radius. Confirm the pump and pressure match the system.

• Poor connections. Leaky connectors waste water and pressure. Use quality fittings that match the tape/pipe and seat them properly.

• Uneven terrain ignored. On slopes, water runs to the low end. Use pressure-compensating emitters or shorter zones where needed.

2. Troubleshooting common symptoms

3. The maintenance schedule that keeps it running

• Weekly during season: visual check of the field for dry spots, leaks, and standing water; clean screen filters as needed.

• Monthly: flush mainline and sub-main ends; check and clean emitters/nozzles; verify pressure at a few points.

• Season start: flush the whole system, inspect fittings and valves, and run a full-system pressure test before planting.

• Season end: flush, drain, and store tape/hose properly; inspect and repair for next season.

4. Seasonal and climate care

• Freezing climates: drain all lines and pumps before winter; store drip tape and layflat hose dry and out of sunlight.

• Hot, dry climates: monitor pressure (which rises as filters clog) and watch for algae in surface-water sources.

• Reuse decisions: strengthened drip tape lasts longer and can be reused across seasons, reducing cost on multi-season crops.

5. Who we are — and the projects behind this guide

Runnong (Baoding Runnong Irrigation Co., Ltd.), founded in 2012, manufactures the complete irrigation system — drip, micro, rain guns, filters, and fittings — with 15+ production lines and customers in 80+ countries. This guidance comes from supporting real installations, including:

• Iraq — 187.5-hectare wheat farm.

• Egypt — Nile Delta orange orchards.

• Ethiopia — Kerchanshe coffee.

• Malaysia, Thailand, Vietnam — dragon fruit, sweet corn, and chili pepper drip systems.

• China — grape, medicinal herbs, and mountainous-area projects.

See the project library for full details.

6. After-sales: what support should look like

• Installation guidance. A manufacturer that helps with layout, pressure, and zoning — not just shipping — prevents most field problems.

• Troubleshooting support. A named contact who can diagnose a symptom and recommend a fix.

• Spare parts. Filters, fittings, and emitters available so a repair does not become a shutdown.

• Reach us at rn-lqh@baodingrunnong.com for any field question.

7. Frequently asked questions

Why is my drip system watering unevenly?

The usual causes are clogged emitters, runs that exceed the tape's maximum length, or insufficient pressure. Flush the lines, check pressure, and split long runs into shorter zones.

Do I really need to flush the system?

Yes — before first use, after any repair, and at season start. Debris in the lines is the leading cause of early emitter clogging.

How often should I clean the filter?

It depends on water quality. Check weekly during the season and clean when pressure drops; upgrade to disc or sand-media filtration if you are cleaning constantly.

How do I keep rain guns spraying at full distance?

Maintain the correct operating pressure and replace worn nozzles. A drop in throw distance usually means a pressure or nozzle problem.

Can drip tape be reused next season?

Thin-wall tape is often single-season; strengthened tape is designed for longer life and reuse. Drain and store correctly to extend life.

Who do I contact for a field problem?

Email Runnong at rn-lqh@baodingrunnong.com with your symptom and a photo — our engineers will help diagnose and fix it.