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How To Install A Sprinkler System Yourself - Dos And Don'ts

You can install a lawn sprinkler system yourself and save money if you have the proper equipment and knowledge. Rather than manually relocating a lawn sprinkler, it is preferable to purchase one that is self-installed.

How To Install A Sprinkler System Yourself

The Advantages of Installing Sprinkler Systems Yourself

You can install your own irrigation system if you are willing to put in the necessary time and effort.

Consider the following essential elements:

DIY Underground Sprinkler System Installation

It is essential to learn how to properly install a sprinkler system to prevent water from traveling to unneeded areas or not at all.

Before beginning, you must determine whether your do-it-yourself irrigation system requires a permit from the local building department. Additionally, you must notify 811 to ensure that you do not dig up any power lines, gas lines, or cable TV lines.

1: Gain an understanding of your water supply.

You need to gather information about your water supply to ensure you purchase the appropriate components and tools.Fortunately, manufacturers frequently design customized systems for your yard and region. They provide instructions on how to determine the appropriate sprinkler system by measuring the water pressure and velocity.

Here are the facts you must know about your water:

  • Dimensions of the water supply line
  • Water pressure in PSI (pounds per square inch) using an outside faucet-attachable pressure gauge
  • Dimensions of the water supply line
  • Rate of flow expressed in gallons per minute

2. Construct an irrigation map.

Include shrubs, trees, and flower gardens on your property's outline. Mark the locations of the sprinkler heads, pipes, and control valves. They are sufficiently dispersed to provide adequate coverage.

Manufacturers may also provide such templates. Once you email them a sketch, they will send you a detailed plan with specific instructions and a list of the hardware store items you will need.

3: Acquire Materials

Once you have your irrigation map and your water system's specifications, it is time to assemble the sprinkler system's components.

Each sprinkler system consists of the following components:

  • Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) or polyethylene pipe
  • Regulating valves
  • Risers 
  • Sprinkler nozzles
  • Programmable timer
  • Pipe snips

4: Facilitate Installation Utilizing Rope and Stakes

Use flags or stakes to indicate the location of each sprinkler in your yard. Then, connect them with twine to indicate where the pipe will be laid.

5: Dig Trenches and Connect Pipes

As you excavate your trench, use the string as a guideline. It must be four inches wide and eight to twelve inches deep.Then, place enough pipe within the trench to cover the entire yard. Using an adhesive and a primer, join the PVC pipe ends to the zone valve. Use a gooseneck connection for each sprinkler to maintain its position.

6: Connect the water source

After the pipe has been assembled, it is time to connect the primary water source. Then, connect the valve box directly to the supply line or an existing faucet. Turn off the water at the meter to prevent water waste and the resultant mud puddle.We advise employing a plumber if you intend to connect directly to the main line in order to avoid disturbing other underground wires.

If you feel confident doing this yourself, here are some guidelines:

Place the valve box in a gravel-lined trench that is two inches deep. As you attach the zone valves, glue the manifold together. Place the manifold within the valve chamber. Before connecting the main water supply line to the manifold, connect a 1 inch schedule 40 PVC pipe to a backflow preventer. According to the plan, excavate a shallow trench between the valve box and the timer. Place the wire in the trench and connect it to each valve's conductors.

Connect your PVC pipe to the control box as well. Multiple valves can be used to control the water flow to various areas of your yard. Attach a riser to each tee connection along your PVC pipe. Riser assemblies will connect your water supply line to the sprinkler nozzles.

7: Open the Water Supply

This phase ensures that any debris caught in the pipes during construction is flushed from the system. If left unattended, the heads' functionality will be compromised.Turn the water on before you install the sprinkler heads, and let the water clear the pipes until all the dirt has flowed out.

8. Connect Sprinkler Heads and an Automatic Timer

Put sprinkler heads on each riser. The best results come from facing the appropriate way and being at ground level or just above the soil. Pack earth around heads to secure them.

Wire the timer to the control valve via a weatherproof pipe on the home wall. Use the manufacturer's instructions or call a certified electrician to attach the wires.

Test each zone to regulate valves using the timer.

Instead of overextending a zone, add another line to avoid overwatering your yard.

9: Conduct a Trial Run

Now is the time to configure your timer with an appropriate watering schedule for your yard. Perform a test to ensure that all sprinklers and zones are receiving the appropriate volume of water.Adjust any sprinkler heads that are spouting erratically.

Once you are satisfied with your efforts and have confirmed that your system is leak-free, you can cover the pipe and enjoy your do-it-yourself system.

And with that! This concludes the installation of your sprinkler system and another successful do-it-yourself home improvement endeavor. Are you interested in beginner-friendly landscape design tips?

The Dos and Don'ts of a Sprinkler System:

Take advantage of the morning hours. Watering your yard at night can promote fungus growth. Your yard's side remains verdant with mildew and mold. Morning irrigation will assist.

  • Install a rain shutoff device or a humidity sensor to stop watering your yard when it has sufficient moisture.
  • Make use of your timers; some irrigation systems have timers retrofitted, saving you water and money.
  • Make sure your sprinkler nozzle only watered lawns and gardens and avoided watering the pavement. Every day, improperly located irrigation systems can waste up to four billion gallons of water.
  • Do not use your sprinkler during a rainstorm.
  • Your system should not leak water into the streets or sewers.