What Dripline to Use If You Have Lime in Your Water
If your water contains lime (calcium carbonate) or other minerals, your irrigation emitters are at risk of clogging over time. In South Africa, this is a common problem — especially for farms using borehole or groundwater sources. Choosing the right dripline type can make the difference between a system that clogs mid-season and one that runs reliably from planting to harvest.
Why Lime Affects Dripline Performance
Lime and other minerals dissolve in water and then settle inside emitters when pressure drops or when the system cools. Over time, this creates a hard white crust that narrows water flow paths, eventually blocking the emitter entirely. Even small amounts of lime build-up can lead to uneven watering and poor crop performance.
- Emitters may clog or discharge unevenly.
- Pressure loss occurs along longer runs.
- Maintenance and flushing become more frequent.
The Best Dripline for Lime-Rich Water
For water with lime or high mineral content, Afriq Water recommends our Disposable Drip Tape range. It’s specifically designed for environments where clogging is inevitable over time — offering farmers a practical, affordable solution that doesn’t compromise irrigation quality.
- Wall Thickness: 0.15 mm – 0.20 mm.
- Ideal Use: Seasonal crops and lime-affected borehole water.
- Benefits: Lower cost per metre, lightweight, and easy to replace annually.
When to Consider Upgrading
If your filtration system improves over time or your water quality stabilises, you can upgrade to a medium or heavy-duty dripline with thicker walls and longer lifespan. But as long as lime remains in your water, disposable lines are the most cost-effective and efficient choice.
- Short-term crops: Use disposable drip tape.
- Permanent systems: Use heavier dripline only once water quality has improved.
- Pressure compensation: Not necessary for short runs, but available for specific layouts.
Installation Tips for Lime-Affected Water
- Always install a proper filtration system to remove sediment before the water enters your dripline.
- Flush lines regularly to remove mineral deposits.
- Run your system long enough each cycle to push clean water through the full line.
- Replace disposable dripline after every growing season to prevent clogging from residual scale.
Where to Find Dripline Irrigation in South Africa
Our Afriq Drip range is proudly manufactured in South Africa, offering reliable, value-for-money irrigation solutions for farms of all sizes.
You can find our dripline rolls and fittings at most agricultural Co-Ops and irrigation suppliers across the country. Stock availability may vary, as we manufacture to order, so please allow 2–3 weeks lead time.
Prefer to buy online? Visit:
www.irrigationonlinesa.co.za
Or contact our distributor to find your nearest retailer:
www.iunlimited.co.za/contact/
