How to Install a Sprinkler System

How to Install a Sprinkler System

Previously, we have discussed on how to plan your sprinkler system. We have mention on the preparation of a sketch with markings on your structures, ornaments, pathways, etc. The sketch would show the exact lay-out of your pipes on your lawn, as you would want it. We will now install your new sprinkler system basing on your prepared sketch.

1. Begin by building a manifold. The manifold consists of a group of control valves connected to a length of PVC pipe that is spaced 3 to 6 inches apart. The water would come to the manifold from the supply line and into the proper control valve then to the circuit by the controller. This manifold may be mounted above ground or buried but projecting the control valves above ground, but covered and enclosed in a box, for easy repair and maintenance needs.

2. Dig V-shaped trenches that are at least 8 inches deep for the PVC pipe. The trenches should be on level and in a straight line. This is where you will lay your pies and will follow your designed piping in your sketch. To dig a tunnel under a sidewalk, use a garden hose and connect a piece of galvanized pipe on its tip and wash away the soil by turning the water in full force. Insert and drive the PVC pipe cap with duct tape into the hole.

3. In taping the water supply line, install a tee at one of this three optional locations:

3.1 Just past or after the water meter in the basement;

3.2 Just behind an outside hose bibb; or

3.3 Or along the main water supply line just before it enters the house, after the outside meter if there is one. Add a stop-and-waste valve for emergency shutoff and be able to drain the system during winter.

3.4 Place the shutoff valve just past the connection to the supply line, and then run the pipe to the manifold. After curing the PVC connections, flush the system with water by turning it on for a minute or two.

4. To prevent contaminated water from getting back into your home’s supply lines, install anti siphon valves onto the control valves.

4.1 Begin laying the pipe in the trenches and make connections. But before you install every threaded riser tee permanently, temporarily screw them in place. Use a carpenter’s square against each riser to ensure the tee is at a 90-degree angle to the ground.

4.2 After the pipes are assembled and connections are cured, then you can install the risers. Carefully cut them to make sure the sprinkler heads have the correct height.

4.3 After the risers are installed, you can now attach the sprinkler heads.

4.4 Finally, install the controller which goes into the garage. Connect to the control valves using low-voltage wires. Program or set the watering controls for each circuit and then test the system, by opening and shutting off every circuit. Fill the trenches with soil then water the soil to compact it. You can add more soil until each trench is slightly elevated and replace the sod to cover the trench.

You now have your new sprinkler system.  (See related article on how to connect PVC Pipes)