Get a healthy, thriving lawn—the easy way
Are you tired of lugging around hoses and spending hours watering your lawn and garden? A sprinkler system can be a game-changer, making lawn care a breeze. In this comprehensive guide, we'll walk you through the process of how to install a sprinkler system so you can have a lush lawn without all the tedious manual watering. Whether you're a seasoned DIY enthusiast or a beginner, we've got you covered.
Before you start digging trenches and laying pipes, there are several important preliminary steps to consider.
Before you begin any excavation or installation work, check with your local municipality for regulations or permits required for installing a sprinkler system. Depending on where you live, specific guidelines and permits may be needed to ensure your project complies with local building codes and water conservation regulations.
Before you dig any trenches, call 811 or contact your local utility companies to mark the location of underground utilities such as gas lines, electric cables, and water lines. This crucial step will help you avoid accidental damage and potential hazards during excavation.
To ensure you purchase the correct parts for your sprinkler system, you'll need to gather some essential information about your property.
Water pressure: Measure your water pressure in pounds per square inch (PSI). This will determine the type of sprinkler heads and system design you can use effectively.
Water meter size or well pump size: Know the size of your water meter or well pump to determine the system's water supply capacity.
Water service line size: Determine the size of your water service line to choose the appropriate mainline pipe diameter.
Water flow rate: Measure your water flow rate in gallons per minute (GPM). This is crucial for sizing the pipe and valve components correctly.
Backflow prevention: Check the type of backflow prevention device required by local building codes. This device prevents contaminated water from entering your drinking water supply.
Now that you've gathered all the necessary information and obtained the required permits, it's time to roll up your sleeves and start installing your sprinkler system.
Before you start digging trenches and laying pipes, take some time to plan your sprinkler system layout. For example, you’ll need to determine the areas of your lawn and garden that require watering and create zones accordingly. Sprinkler heads will need to be positioned strategically to ensure even coverage and avoid overlapping.
A zoned sprinkler system also means you’ll need to plan the locations of your zone control valves for easy access and maintenance. Map out the path of your mainline pipes, taking into account the water supply source and backflow prevention device. You’ll also need to decide where to install your sprinkler system controller for convenient access and programming.
With your system layout in mind, start to dig trenches for your pipes. Use a shovel and trenching spade to excavate the trenches following the planned path and ensure that the trenches are deep enough to comfortably accommodate the pipes and valves. It's essential to maintain a consistent slope to prevent yard drainage problems.
Now comes the fun part—assembling your sprinkler system. Start by cutting your PVC pipes or PEX tubing to the required lengths using a PVC pipe cutter or hacksaw. Remember to account for pipe fittings and connectors when measuring.
Connect the pipes using appropriate fittings, ensuring a secure and leak-free connection. Use pipe glue and primer for PVC pipes and crimping tools for PEX tubing. Apply Teflon tape to threaded connections to prevent leaks.
Zone control valves play a crucial role in your sprinkler system. These valves allow you to control the flow of water to different zones, optimizing water distribution and conservation. Install the zone valves at the predetermined locations you mapped out earlier.
Make sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions for sprinkler valve installation and wiring. You should also secure the valves using pipe straps or clamps to keep them in place.
Now that your valves are in place, connect the valve pipes and sprinkler heads. Use riser pipes to elevate the sprinkler heads to the desired height. Attach the sprinkler heads to the risers and connect them to the valve pipes using appropriate connectors.
Ensure that the sprinkler heads are level and aligned correctly for even water distribution and secure them in place with pipe straps or clamps.
Connect your mainline pipes to the water supply source, which may be your water meter or well pump. Use the appropriate fittings and connectors to establish a watertight connection and ensure all connections are secure to prevent leaks.
To automate your sprinkler system and ensure efficient watering, you can install a programmable timer or controller. Follow the manufacturer's instructions to wire and program the controller according to your desired watering schedule. This step allows you to customize watering times and how long to run sprinklers based on your lawn and garden's specific needs.
When deciding whether to install a sprinkler system yourself or hire a local sprinkler installation company, several key factors come into play. Opting for a DIY installation can save costs by avoiding labor charges. It also provides a valuable learning experience and allows you to customize your sprinkler system to suit specific needs.
On the other hand, professional installation brings expertise, ensuring optimal performance and water conservation. It saves time with efficient completion and often includes warranties for your peace of mind. Your choice depends on your comfort with DIY projects, your budget, and how complex the project is, considering the size, slope, and other factors related to your lawn.
Sprinkler lines should be buried at a depth of six to 12 inches underground. This depth helps protect the pipes from potential damage caused by frost during cold weather while allowing for proper water distribution to the lawn or garden. However, the specific depth may depend on local regulations and climate conditions, so it's essential to check local guidelines and consider factors like freeze depth and pipe diameter when determining the appropriate burial depth for your sprinkler lines.
Using PEX tubing instead of PVC pipes offers several advantages. PEX is more flexible, making it easier to work with and allowing for fewer connections, reducing the risk of leaks. PEX is also less susceptible to freezing and bursting compared to rigid PVC pipes. Additionally, PEX is corrosion-resistant, which prolongs the lifespan of the plumbing system. Its versatility and durability make it an excellent choice for various water distribution applications, including sprinkler systems.
The type of controller you use for your sprinkler system depends on your specific needs and preferences. Options range from basic timers that provide manual control to smart controllers with app-based control and weather-based features. A basic timer is cost-effective and straightforward, while smart controllers offer convenience by allowing you to adjust settings remotely and adapt to weather conditions for efficient watering. Consider your budget and how hands-on you want to be with your system when selecting the right controller for your sprinkler system.
