What is considered major maintenance in an irrigation system?

Major maintenance in an irrigation system is characterized by tasks that involve significant intervention or repairs, particularly those that impact the integrity or functioning of the system as a whole. Opening the mainline to the atmosphere signifies a substantial procedure that often involves diagnosing and repairing serious issues within the system. This process is critical not only because it may involve structural changes to the irrigation infrastructure but also because it can affect water flow, pressure, and the overall efficiency of the system.

In contrast, changing sprinkler heads regularly and performing minor adjustments and settings are considered routine maintenance tasks. These activities are essential for the ongoing effective operation of the irrigation system but do not reach the level of major maintenance, as they do not typically require extensive repairs or significant alterations to the irrigation lines.

Similarly, conducting routine inspections without repairs falls into the category of preventive maintenance and does not constitute major maintenance since it does not involve any corrective actions or repairs requiring significant resources or modifications to the infrastructure.

Thus, the correct understanding of major maintenance encompasses the more complex and impactful tasks, such as repairs that require opening the mainline to the atmosphere, which address deeper systemic issues and can ensure the longevity and efficiency of the irrigation system.