If a valve is suspected of being damaged, which part should be examined for tears?

• A. Flow knob
• B. Diaphragm
• C. Connection wire
• D. Filter screen

Answer: (B)

The diaphragm is a crucial component of irrigation valves as it regulates the flow of water and functions as a sealing element. When a valve is suspected to be damaged, the diaphragm should be examined for tears or other signs of wear. Any damage to the diaphragm can lead to improper sealing, resulting in water leaks or failure to open and close the valve as needed.

In contrast, while the flow knob is important for manual adjustments, it typically does not impact the core functioning of the valve in the same way. The connection wire is relevant for electrically controlled valves, but damage to a wire would affect electrical connectivity rather than the mechanical operation of the valve. The filter screen's role is to prevent debris from entering the valve, and while it can become clogged or dirty, it is not where tears would form. Therefore, focusing on the diaphragm is critical when assessing valve integrity.