A water filter for the CS soaker hose is important to prevent dirt particles and sediments from entering the soaker hose and clogging the microporous pores. Clogging would impair even water distribution and could reduce the efficiency of irrigation or damage the soaker hose. The filter helps to increase the longevity of the soaker hose and ensures consistent irrigation performance.

The optimal irrigation duration with a CS soaker hose depends on various factors, including the type of plants, soil condition, and weather conditions. Since soaker hoses provide slow and even watering directly to the roots, the required irrigation time is typically longer than with conventional methods, but with the advantage of more efficient water use. Here are some general guidelines to help estimate the irrigation duration:

Type of Plants

• GeVegetable Garden: Vegetable plants usually need deep and regular watering, especially during the growth phase. Around 20 to 30 minutes per irrigation, 3-4 times per week, may be sufficient, depending on the weather.
• Ornamental Plants and Flower Beds: For flowers and ornamental plants, a shorter irrigation time of 10-20 minutes may be sufficient, as they often do not root as deeply as vegetables.
• Hedges, Trees, and Lawns: For these, an irrigation time of 25 to 30 minutes should be sufficient, as they generally require more water.

Soil Condition

• Clay Soils: These retain water longer and may require less frequent irrigation, but longer durations to allow water to penetrate deeper into the soil.
• Sandy Soils: Permeable and quick-drying, sandy soils require shorter but more frequent watering cycles.

Weather Conditions

• Hot, Dry Conditions: During periods of low rainfall or high heat, daily watering may be necessary to meet the plants' moisture needs.
• Cooler, Humid Weather: Less watering is required when the weather is cooler or when rainfall meets the moisture needs of the plants.

Final Tips

• Check Soil Moisture: It is always advisable to check soil moisture before watering. The soil should be moist, but not overwatered.
• Water in the Morning: Watering in the early morning or late evening reduces evaporation and ensures that water reaches where it is needed.

The CS soaker hose is frost-resistant and can remain laid out during winter without any issues, as it self-drains through its tiny pores. All other components, such as water filters, pressure regulators, irrigation controllers, or devices where water can accumulate, should be removed and stored in a frost-proof location.

Water consumption varies depending on irrigation needs and settings. However, soaker hoses are known for their efficiency and can save up to 70% of water compared to traditional irrigation methods. The CS soaker hoses Startup, Premium, and Profi release about 6 - 8 liters per meter per hour, while the CS pressureless soaker hose releases about 8 - 10 liters per meter per hour.

Example: 7 liters/hour x 10 meters of Premium soaker hose x 20 minutes of irrigation = approximately 23 liters of water consumption.

The choice of pump is crucial for providing the required water pressure. Soaker hoses typically operate at low pressure, so pumps that can deliver consistent, low pressure are most suitable. It is important that the pump either has an expansion vessel that releases additional water during the soaker hose irrigation, or that a second circuit is set up to return part of the water to the intake point. This prevents overheating and potential damage to the pump.

One problem that soaker hoses might face is rapid calcification, especially with hard water. This can ultimately lead to breakages or clogging of the hose's pores. Therefore, it is particularly important to bury the CS soaker hose to allow sufficient time for the lime to be flushed out. If the soaker hose is laid on the surface and exposed to direct sunlight, it dries too quickly, causing lime deposits in the tiny pores, which leads to blockages and uneven irrigation. If you are unsure whether your water is suitable for operating a soaker hose, we recommend buying a small roll for testing before undertaking larger irrigation projects.

The choice between surface and subsurface installation of CS soaker hoses affects irrigation efficiency and effectiveness in the garden. While surface installation is quick and easy, it increases water loss through evaporation and the risk of clogging the soaker hose with particles present in the water. In contrast, subsurface installation is more aesthetically pleasing and minimizes water loss since water is delivered directly to the plant roots, enabling more efficient water use.

CS soaker hoses can significantly reduce water consumption, leading to long-term cost savings. Additionally, plants are watered directly at the root, which minimizes diseases and pest infestations.

The connectors can be coated with a bit of cooking oil to make it easier to push them into the soaker hose. Be sure to push the connectors straight in without twisting, as the edges could otherwise damage the soaker hose.