What maintenance is required for pop-up heads in spray or rotor systems?

Periodic maintenance for pop-up heads in spray or rotor systems is crucial for ensuring their efficient functioning and longevity. This maintenance typically involves checking for clogs, cleaning the heads, and ensuring they are properly aligned. Pop-up heads can collect debris such as dirt, grass clippings, and other organic material, which can impede their operation and result in uneven watering. Regular maintenance helps identify any issues early, allowing for repairs before they affect the whole irrigation system.

While other options suggest actions that could be applicable in specific circumstances, they are not practical as routine maintenance. For instance, annual replacement is not necessary unless the heads are damaged or malfunctioning, and cleansing with acid is an extreme measure that may not be suitable for most maintenance needs. Full system shutdown is also not a practical approach for maintaining just the pop-up heads; it could lead to unnecessary downtime and inconvenience. Therefore, the emphasis on periodic maintenance effectively ensures optimal performance of the irrigation system.