The top-most secret of a lush and vibrant lawn is proper watering. Installing a lawn sprinkle system can fulfill the proper watering technique. Several homeowners hire a professional provider for sprinkler system installation services. But DIY sprinkler system installation, though a challenging task, can be completed with a little knowledge and understanding of the sprinkler system. With the know-how and the right supplies, a homeowner can install and save costs on installation charges.
Often homeowners consider installing a lawn sprinkler system as complicated and challenging. But it is not so, and the skill can be learned and thereby installation can be executed correctly. If the installation is not done rightly, water will be flowing from multiple places, or not flowing at all. Certain step-by-step processes need to be followed to assure that the installation process is a success. Before initiating the DIY project, it is suggested to check with the local municipality department so that the underground utility lines don’t get disrupted and the need for any special permission.
Gathering water supply information
To get hold of the right tools and equipment for DIY sprinkler system installation services, one must seek information about his/her water supply in detail. The following details are required:
- The size of the water service line
- Measuring water pressure in PSI
- The size of the pump or water meter
Creating an irrigation map
It is always a good idea to draw a diagram of the property considered for sprinkler system installation. The diagram must include flower beds, shrubs, and trees present and mark the locations from where the pipelines and control valves will pass. Furthermore, it is also important to mark the location of the sprinkler heads on the lawn. It is also necessary to space things so that there is necessary coverage. A simple drawing of the irrigation map can prove to be helpful and useful.
Gathering the sprinkler system installation supplies and using stakes and strings
Based on the irrigation map, and water system specifications, a homeowner should acquire the required components and parts for the sprinkler system. Some of the prime components include:
- Sprinkler heads
- Control valves
- Risers
- Automatic timer
- PVC pipe
Furthermore, the homeowner is suggested to place stakes and strings on the lawn where the sprinkler will pass. It is a smart move to interlink the stakes with the strings so that it is easier to identify the pipelines. It acts as a guide to the sprinkler system installation.
Digging the trenches and connecting the pipes
It is advised to follow the strings used and then dig trenches for the pipes. The trench must be around 8 inches to 10 inches deep, and at least 4 inches wide. This is followed by laying the pipe into the dug trench to ensure that it is adequate. Using adhesive and primer, the ends of the PVC pipe should be connected. The tee connection should be maintained for each sprinkler system. DIY sprinkler system installation services are challenging, but with the right know-how and understanding, the installation can be easily achieved.
Hooking the source of water
When the pipes are assembled, the homeowner can connect the pipes to the main source of water. It is suggested to connect the control valve to the existing faucet or directly to the service line. Connecting to the service line might be more challenging than connecting to the faucet, and thereby hiring a plumber is considered. The PVC sprinkler pipe can be connected to the control valve as well. A homeowner can utilize multiple valves to have control over the water flow to the different areas of the lawn.
Attaching the risers and flushing out the system
A homeowner is suggested to place a riser inro every tee connection that is made along the PVC pipe. Before the installation of the sprinkler system heads is done, one needs to flush the system of dirt that might have got into the pipes during the construction. Furthermore, the homeowner must turn on the main water supply to the system and continue till the debris is completely flushed out.
Installing sprinkler heads
After attaching the risers and the system is flushed out of the debris completely, it is time to install the sprinkler heads. It is recommended to attach a sprinkler head to every riser. It is necessary to ensure that they are placed pointed in the correct direction. Furthermore, they must be connected at or placed above the soil level. This assures proper functioning of the sprinkler system.
Installing an automatic timer and evaluating the sprinkler system
To install an automatic timer, it is needed to wire to the control valve with the use of a waterproof pipe. When considering sprinkler system installation services, a timer can be automated for different watering zone schedules at varying times in the yard. Once the homeowner ensures that the sprinkler system is working properly with proper flowing without any leaks, he/she can cover the pipe and bury it, thereby enjoying the new lawn sprinkler system.
Tools and products required for installing a DIY sprinkler system
- Using a top-notch PVC pipe plays a vital role in the successful installation of a sprinkler system. One also needs proper PVC primer, adhesive, and tee fittings.
- When a homeowner considers a multi-zone sprinkler system, he/she requires an orbit 3-valve heavy duty manifold that can control the water flow. It is suggested to combine with a sprinkler box so that it can be accessed after the pipes are buried.
- The sprinkler valve with flow control is designed for above-the-ground installation. It helps in preventing backflow.
- The pop-up sprinkler can be adjusted to a distance between 8 feet to 15 feet. The spray angle can range from 0o to 360o.
- The sprinkler controller or timer is useful for installing a multi-zone lawn sprinkler system. The smart sprinkler controller is also available in the market.
- The spray head riser is used to connect the sprinkler heads to the PVC pipelines.
Conclusion
DIY sprinkler system installation services are achievable if one is willing to give the effort and time. One mustn’t forget that installing a sprinkler system is one of the most challenging projects that a DIY enthusiast takes up in his/her home.