Maintenance of Microirrigation Systems

Biocides for biological clogging problems

Double-venturi injection system Photo: L. Schwankl

Treating irrigation water with a biocide will minimize the growth of organic contaminants and often destroy the organic material, minimizing the clogging hazard.

Three biocide methods are commonly used to treat irrigation water. In addition, use of acid is sometimes recommended for biological clogging problems. There are also a number of water treatment devices on the market which claim to control biological clogging problems.

Chlorination
Copper products
Ozone treatment
Acid
Miscellaneous water treatment devices and chemicals