How To Locate Sprinkler Lines Without Digging?

Considerations When Locating Your Sprinkler Line

If you have more than one circuit, rectangular or triangular sprinklers are the most popular. Knowing the number of circuits will allow you to locate the lines without digging.

The majority of sprinkler circuits are rectangular in design. The pop-up sprinkler heads will be facing each other at regular intervals along the long edges of the rectangle. In a rectangle, the first two sprinkler heads on opposite sides will turn on at the same time, followed by the next two pairs.

With a rectangular configuration, there will likely be a single pipe from the valve box with a T-junction between the first two sprinkler heads.

Mark Out Your Sprinkler Lines And Heads

There are numerous ways to physically mark sprinkler lines. Start at the valve box and follow the water flow direction. You can determine this by turning on the system and observing the pattern in which the sprinklers activate. The one nearest to the valve box will emerge first, while the one farthest away will emerge last.

Mark the sprinkler lines between each sprinkler head using spray paint. Alternately, colored string or thin rope might be tied to pegs. You can use tent pegs or you can bend the ends of short lengths of wire to prevent the string from falling off. If your sprinkler heads are not visible, place a little flag alongside each one.

How close can sprinkler heads be placed to one another?

When trying to locate your sprinkler lines, it is helpful to know how close your sprinkler heads might be. This expertise is also necessary if you wish to repair, upgrade, and maximize the efficiency of your system. The water flow rate, the type of sprinkler head, and the demand for "head-to-head" coverage dictate the number of sprinkler heads and the distance between them.

To gain maximum efficiency from your irrigation system and to guarantee that each sprinkler head functions optimally, you should utilize no more than 75% of the available water flow from your source, whether it be a borehole or municipal supply. If the area you want to water is big, you can build more than one circuit. In this case, set your timer so that each circuit gets watered at different times for the best results.

Electronic Water Detection To Find Sprinkler Lines

The most reliable and scientific method for locating sprinkler lines is to locate a microphone-equipped electronic radio detection device. The microphone can detect the flow of water even in plastic sprinkler lines. It transmits electronic pulses whose intensity is proportional to the proximity of the probe to the sprinkler line. You could do it yourself if you are skilled with electronic gadgets, or you could hire a certified technician.

Conclusion

Using the design plan from the firm that installed your irrigation system is the simplest approach to locating the sprinkler lines. If you are unable to acquire a design plan, you can personally draw the lines. Alternatively, you can hire a specialist to utilize an electronic radio detection device.

Understanding the proper spacing for sprinkler heads will help you locate your sprinkler lines and maintain the optimal functioning of your irrigation system. When all else fails, call in the experts!