The proper operation of a drip irrigation system depends not only on the quality of the equipment and installation but also, importantly, on the rational use and maintenance of the irrigation system.
① Inspect the filter regularly and perform sand removal and flushing after each irrigation. If the filter screen is found to be damaged, replace it with a new one immediately. It is strictly prohibited to continue operating the drip irrigation system if the filter screen is damaged.
② When operating the drip irrigation system, first open the valves on the lateral lines to allow water to flow from the drippers; then, sequentially open the valves on the upstream main lines to ensure the safe operation of all components of the irrigation system.
③ The operating pressure of the drip irrigation system shall be 0.05–0.10 MPa (equivalent to a water head of 5–10 meters). The pressure must not exceed the specified limit or fall too low, as this will adversely affect irrigation quality. Irrigation should be carried out according to the scheduled rotation schedule for each irrigation zone; when switching between adjacent zones, the valves for the next zone should be opened first, and those for the previous zone closed last.
④ Use of fertilizer applicators. In open fields, fertilizer tanks are typically used for application; for small-area fertigation, Venturi-type fertilizer injectors (valves) may be employed. When using fertilizer tanks or injectors, choose readily soluble, fast-acting fertilizers, or dissolve solid fertilizers in advance the day before use. During crop fertilization, dilute the fertilizer solution and load it into the fertilizer tank, then seal the tank lid. Next, adjust the dedicated fertilizer valve to create a pressure differential between the upstream and downstream sections of the pipeline, and open the two adjustment valves adjacent to the fertilizer valve to allow the fertilizer solution to enter the irrigation pipeline and be delivered with the water flow to the crop roots.
⑤ After irrigation is completed and the drip irrigation system is to be shut down, first turn off the pump and other power-driven equipment, then close the valves in sequence from the top down. When opening or closing valves, do so slowly to prevent water hammer in the piping, which could damage the pipes.
⑥ After installation is complete, the drip irrigation system should be flushed for 1–3 minutes by opening the end caps on the lateral lines and drip tapes (tubes) before first use. The system’s piping should also be cleaned in this manner every five uses.
⑦ During the non-irrigation season, accumulated water in the water transmission and distribution network should be drained promptly to prevent freezing of the pipes due to low winter temperatures, which could impair normal operation.