Irrigation Filter
An irrigation filter protects emitters and nozzles from debris and sediment in the supply water. Place one on the supply line and set the filter type in the Inspector.
Irrigation FilterThe Filter object places a dedicated filtration symbol on your irrigation supply line. In the Inspector you record the Type (Screen, Disc, Sand Media, Centrifugal, or Custom), the Mesh (micron), and the Flow (L/min) capacity, so the plan communicates the exact filtration the installer must fit. Place filters between the water source and the first valve or drip zone so the installation sequence is clear.
Set the filter type in the Inspector
With the filter component selected, open the Inspector and set the filter type: 'mesh' (woven stainless steel screen, good for general use), 'disc' (layered disc stack, good for higher flow rates), or 'screen' (flat screen filter for low-flow drip lines). The mesh size or filtration rating can be noted in the label or annotation.
Connect with pipes
Use the Draw Pipe tool to ensure the supply pipe passes through the filter point. The pipe should enter and exit the filter symbol, showing a continuous inline assembly in the plan. Label the filter location with the Annotate tool if the installer needs to access it for periodic cleaning.
Set the filter type
Select the placed filter to open the Filter section in the Inspector. Set the Type to Screen, Disc, Sand Media, Centrifugal, or Custom to match the product you intend to specify.
Set the mesh rating and flow capacity
Enter the Mesh (micron) rating and the Flow (L/min) capacity in the same section. Common ratings are coarser for spray heads and finer for drip emitters; record the value recommended by the emitter manufacturer.
Connect the supply pipe through the filter
Place a Pipe from the Distribution section and route the supply line through the filter location, continuing downstream toward the pressure regulator, valve, or drip zone.
Add zone-level filters where needed
For drip zones, place a second Filter just upstream of the zone valve rather than relying solely on the mainline filter. Drip emitters are more sensitive to debris than spray heads, so a dedicated zone filter is standard practice.
Record a consistent specification format across all supply-line filters — type, mesh, then flow capacity. This makes the plan easy to read in the field and helps when generating a materials list.
Place the filter upstream of the pressure regulator. Most manufacturers require the filter to protect the regulator's internal seat from sediment damage.
The Water tab is a schematic planning tool and does not simulate real-world pressure or flow. The recorded filter specification is for documentation and handover — consult a qualified irrigation designer for hydraulic sizing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a dedicated filter object with a type or spec field?
Yes. The Filter object is in the Water tab under Sources & Supply. Place it on the supply line and set its Type, Mesh (micron), and Flow (L/min) in the Inspector.
Where should I place the filter on the supply line?
Downstream of the backflow preventer and upstream of the pressure regulator and zone valves. For drip irrigation, also add a filter immediately upstream of each drip zone valve.
What filter types are available?
Screen, Disc, Sand Media, Centrifugal, and Custom. Choose the type that matches the product specified for the system.
What mesh rating should I specify?
Record the specification recommended by the emitter manufacturer rather than a generic value. The Mesh field accepts a micron rating. The object is for documentation — the designer or installer is responsible for hydraulic sizing.
Will the filter appear on PDF exports and client deliverables?
Yes. Placed water objects appear in plan exports and printed plan sets. Name each filter clearly so it reads unambiguously on the sheet.