How to Install Underground Sprinkler System for Lush Landscapes

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Planning And Designing The Underground Sprinkler System

Planning and designing an underground sprinkler system is a crucial first step to ensure a lush and thriving landscape. The following steps will guide you through this essential process:

• Examine your yard: Carefully examine your yard and make a detailed sketch or diagram. This will help you visualize the layout of the sprinkler system and locate the ideal spots for each sprinkler head. Consider factors such as the shape and size of your yard, any existing structures or obstacles, the types of plants you have, and the specific irrigation needs of each area.

• Gather information: Gather information from manufacturers and conduct further research to choose the most suitable sprinkler system for your needs. Different systems offer varying features, such as adjustable spray patterns, varying flow rates, and coverage areas. Take your time to read reviews and consult experts to make an informed decision.

• Estimate cost and time: Estimate the cost and time required for installation. For a two-zone system, expect to spend between $1,000 to $1,400, and allocate approximately 16 to 20 hours for the installation process. These figures may vary depending on the size and complexity of your yard, as well as any additional features you may desire.

• Consult with manufacturers: Lastly, consult with manufacturers who can help design a system specific to your yard and region. They will provide valuable instructions on checking water pressure (30 to 35 psi) and water flow (10 to 13 gpm) needed for the system. Manufacturers may also provide a template for sketching property boundaries to ensure accurate installation.

• Use markdown bullet points at the end.

Excavating And Installing The Pipe Network

Now that you have planned and designed your underground sprinkler system, it’s time to begin the physical installation by excavating and installing the pipe network. Follow these steps to ensure a smooth and efficient installation:

1. Obtain any necessary permits and mark the location of buried electrical cables, gas lines, or sewer lines. This will prevent accidental damage and ensure safety during the installation process.

2. Excavate trenches to a recommended depth of 4 to 12 inches using a gas-powered trenching machine. Note that the depth may vary depending on the type of system and local regulations. Take care not to damage any existing structures or plants during this process.

3. Cut into the main water line and splice in a tee fitting using PVC cement and primer. This will serve as the connection point for the main pipe of your sprinkler system.

4. To install zone valves, dig a trench from the main water line to the valve box location as indicated on your plan. This trench will house the necessary pipes for controlling the water flow to different zones of your sprinkler system.

5. Remember to obtain necessary permits and mark the location of buried utilities before excavation.

6. Use a gas-powered trenching machine for efficient trench excavation.
7. Take care not to damage any existing structures or plants during the excavation process.
8. Splice in a tee fitting using PVC cement and primer to connect the main pipe.
9. Dig a trench for the zone valves to control water flow to different zones.

Connecting The Control Components

To ensure efficient and controlled operation of your underground sprinkler system, follow these steps to connect the control components:

1. Ensure that the valve box lid is flush with the grass for easy access and maintenance. This will also prevent any potential tripping hazards.

2. Glue together the manifold and attach the zone valves according to the manufacturer’s directions. The manifold is a central hub that controls the water flow to different zones.

3. Set the manifold in the valve box and secure it in place. This will provide ease of access and protection for the control components.

4. Run 1-inch Schedule 40 PVC pipe from the main water line to a backflow-prevention device and then connect it to the manifold. The backflow-prevention device is essential to protect your drinking water supply from contamination.

5. Dig a shallow trench from the valve box to the timer location and lay a 24-volt underground wire in the trench. Connect the wire to the wires leading from each valve. This will allow the timer to control the operation of each zone.

Installing The Sprinkler Heads

With the pipe network and control components in place, it’s time to install the sprinkler heads. Follow these steps to ensure proper installation and distribution of water:

1. Following your plan, lay PVC pipe in all the trenches leading from the valve box. Join pipe sections with couplings and use PVC cement if necessary. This will create the network of pipes that will deliver water to each sprinkler head.

2. Use tee fittings to splice in flexible piping wherever a pipe branches off to a sprinkler head. This will provide flexibility and ease of adjustment when installing the sprinkler heads.

3. Connect the PVC water pipes in the trenches to the zone valve pipes protruding from the valve box using 90-degree elbows. These connections will ensure proper water flow to each zone.

4. Before installing the sprinklers, turn on the water to flush any dirt or debris from the system. Then, turn off the water to proceed with the installation.

5. Attach a pop-up sprinkler onto the end of each length of flexible piping. The barbed fitting on the sprinkler can be simply pushed into the pipe without the need for glue or hose clamps.

6. Install the appropriate spray nozzle on each sprinkler as indicated on your plan. Different plants and areas may require different spray patterns and water distribution.

Adding Drip Irrigation For Flowerbeds And Trees

To ensure proper watering for flowerbeds and trees, it is important to include drip irrigation in your underground sprinkler system. Follow these steps to effectively incorporate this feature:

1. Connect drip-irrigation tubing to the pressure reducer and microfilter coming from the underground PVC pipes at flowerbeds and trees. This will ensure a controlled and consistent water supply.

2. Roll out the tubing along the flower bed, keeping it close to the base of the plants. Space the tubing 12 inches apart to ensure even distribution of water.

3. Use push-in couplings to join one length of tubing to another if necessary. This will help you customize the irrigation layout to fit your specific landscape.

4. Secure the irrigation tubing with plastic ground stakes, spacing them 18 to 24 inches apart. The stakes will hold the tubing down and prevent evaporation of water.

5. Consider using bark mulch to cover the area around the flowerbeds and trees. This will provide additional insulation, retain moisture, and deter weed growth.

6. Connect drip-irrigation tubing
7. Roll out close to the base of the plants
8. Space the tubing 12 inches apart
9. Use push-in couplings to join tubing
10. Secure with plastic ground stakes
11. Consider using bark mulch as ground cover.

Testing And Adjusting The System

After completing the installation of your underground sprinkler system, it is crucial to test and adjust the system to ensure optimal performance. Follow these steps for successful testing and adjustment:

• Mount a programmable timer on the house wall and connect 24-volt wires from the zone valves to the timer. This will enable scheduled and automated control of your sprinkler system.

• Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to properly attach the wires to the timer terminals. If needed, consider hiring a licensed electrician to assist with running power to the timer.

• Test the system to ensure that each zone and sprinkler head is operating properly. Observe the coverage area, spray patterns, and water pressure to identify any issues.

• Make necessary adjustments and fine-tune the system. If certain nozzles are spraying off course, adjust them accordingly to ensure targeted watering.

• Regularly inspect and maintain the system to prevent any leaks, blockages, or inefficiencies. Proper maintenance will ensure the longevity and effectiveness of your underground sprinkler system.

installing an underground sprinkler system requires careful planning and design, followed by precise excavation, installation of pipes and control components, and proper placement of sprinkler heads and drip irrigation. By following the steps outlined above and regularly maintaining your system, you will enjoy a lush and thriving landscape all year round.

Frequently Asked Questions

How to build an underground sprinkler system?

To build an underground sprinkler system, start by digging trenches in your yard to lay the pipes. Once the trenches are dug, make the necessary water connection and install zone valves. Carefully place the pipes in the trenches and connect them at the valve box. Next, install the pop-up sprinklers in strategic locations to ensure even water distribution. Finally, roll out the irrigation system and test it to ensure it is functioning properly. With these steps, you will have a functional underground sprinkler system that will keep your yard well-watered and maintained.

How hard is it to install underground sprinklers?

Installing underground sprinklers can be a physically demanding task, but overall it is a manageable process. The level of difficulty largely depends on the size of your yard. Although the work of digging trenches and connecting pipes will surely make you perspire, the lightweight components of a sprinkler system make installation relatively easy. For a small yard, the task might take around 16 to 20 hours, whereas a larger yard might require dedicating an entire weekend to complete the installation.

How deep do sprinkler lines need to be buried?

In order to ensure the proper functioning and protection of sprinkler lines, they should be buried at a depth that considers the freeze cycles and frost severity of the area. Generally, trenches for sprinkler lines are made to be relatively shallow, typically between 6 to 12 inches deep. This depth provides enough room for the sprinklers to retract underground, preventing any potential damage caused by lawn machines. It is recommended to either manually dig the trench or rent a trencher, which can significantly save time and effort in the installation process.

How many sprinklers per zone?

Generally, the number of sprinklers per zone in a sprinkler system ranges from 5 to 6 rotor heads and/or 8 to 10 spray heads. This configuration ensures effective coverage and distribution of water throughout the area. The combination of rotor and spray heads allows for a balanced irrigation system that accommodates different watering needs, providing optimal hydration for the designated zone.

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