Easy Loc and Drip Tape Fitting Installation Tips

Drip irrigation has revolutionized the way gardeners and landscapers approach watering. This effective irrigation method saves water and time while providing essential nutrients to plants. However, installing drip irrigation fittings correctly, especially easy loc and drip tape fittings, is one of the most crucial components of a successful drip irrigation system.

Installing easy loc and drip tape fittings in your drip system is relatively simple, but careful attention is required to ensure a leak-free and effective setup. In this guide, our drip irrigation experts share the role of easy loc and drip tape fittings in the drip irrigation system and helpful tips for correctly installing both types of fittings to make your irrigation process smoother.

Role of Easy Loc and Drip Tape Fittings in Drip Irrigation System

Easy loc and drip tape fittings are game-changing components used in drip irrigation systems. They play a key role in quickly connecting multiple parts of the system and ensuring that plants receive the right amount of water without water wastage.

Let's take a closer look at each of these fittings!

Easy Loc Fittings

Easy loc fittings, also known as Perma-loc fittings, are versatile and user-friendly connectors designed for drip irrigation systems. They are easy to install and remove when winterizing, which makes them ideal for gardeners and farmers looking for an efficient way to assemble their irrigation system. These fittings provide a quick solution for system expansions or on-the-spot repairs.

Easy Loc fittings have barbed ends and a locking mechanism, and they can be connected by hand. Using these fittings, you can easily attach tubing to various components of the system, like drip lines, filters, and valves.

Easy loc fittings from a reputable brand have a secure, leak-resistant design for long-lasting performance. ½ Easy Loc Coupler and ½ Easy Loc Tee at DripWorks are game changers that are designed with durable and high-quality materials to revolutionize how you manage your irrigation system. These fittings don't require any special tools for installation and play a significant role in enhancing the efficiency and productivity of the drip irrigation system.

Drip Tape Fittings

A drip irrigation system uses drip tape, a particular kind of dripline tubing, and drip tape fittings are designed to connect it. Drip tape fittings ensure a secure connection between drip tape and other components of the system. At DripWorks, we have multiple versions of drip tape fittings for ⅝ drip tape that are sturdy and easy to use.

Drip tape fittings come with lock rings that secure the fitting firmly onto the drip tape and prevent it from slipping out during usage. In addition, these fittings are easy to install and remove, making them highly useful for repairs and setting up effective watering systems for your plants.

Installing Easy Loc Fittings

Easy loc fittings are well-known for their ease of use and versatility. The Perma-loc fittings are available in ½, ¾, and 1" sizes. Here is how to install them in your drip system and tips to make fitting insertion easy:

Cut the Drip Tubing: Using a sharp knife or cutter, make a smooth cut in drip tubing where you need to insert the loc fitting. Make sure that the cut is clean and burr-free.

Prepare the Loc Fitting: Take a look at the easy loc fitting. It has a barbed end, which will be slipped into the tubing.

Insert the Fitting: When installing the Perma-loc fitting, the swivel collar isn't removed. Twist it back towards the fitting's center to expose the barb, then put the tubing onto the loc barb. Gently push the cut end of the tubing over the barbed end of the easy loc fitting. You should move around 0.5 inches of tubing over the barb for a secure fit.

Next, tighten the collar by pulling it over the tubing, and you're ready to go. However, make sure it is tightened enough to create a water-tight seal but not overtighten as it can damage the tubing.

Test the Fitting Insertion for Leaks:

Activate your drip irrigation system's water supply and look for leaks around the Loc fitting. If you notice any leaks, make necessary adjustments to the fitting for a secure, leak-free connection.

Expert Tips:

• Cut the tube using a clean and sharp tool. A smooth cut ensures a secure connection.
• Always double-check that the tubing is completely pushed onto the barbed end to avoid leaks.
• Lubricate the ends of the tubing with a few drops of oil-based lubricant before inserting it into the barbed end of the fitting.
• Additionally, heating the tubing works perfectly for perma-loc and barbed fittings. Use warm water to heat the tubing ends before inserting an Easy-loc fitting. It will make it easier to slide the tubing on the fitting.
• Be sure to tightly attach the fitting without overdoing it because this can damage the tubing.

Installing Drip Tape Fittings

Drip tape fittings are sturdy and easy-to-use components designed to be used with drip tape, a thin and flat tubing. These fittings come in many versions, including tees, elbows, and couplers. Let's see how to install these fittings into ⅝ drip tape.

Secure with Lock Rings: Drip tape fittings come with lock rings. Twist the lock ring over the fitting and onto the drip tape to fasten it in place. Make sure the lock ring is tight enough to keep the fitting in place but not over-tight. Avoid emitters in the Drip Tape to get a secure tight fit.

Punch Holes: When installing Drip Tape by barb start fittings, create holes in mainline where the fittings are to be inserted. Use a punch tool that is made particularly for drip tape fittings to create holes. The holes should be a little bit smaller than the barbs on the drip tape fittings.

Insert the Fittings: Gently insert the barbed end of the fitting into the hole you made in the mainline. Apply gentle pressure to ensure a secure fit.

Test for Leaks: After inserting the fitting, turn on the irrigation system and look for any leaks around the fittings.

Expert Tips:

• Use a special hole punch tool to create precise holes. Avoid using a sharp object like a knife, as it can harm the drip tape.
• Securely fasten the lock rings without overtightening.
• Read the manufacturer's instructions for the fittings you are using. It helps ensure proper and effective installation.
• Examine and maintain your drip tape fittings regularly to avoid any clogs or leaks that can disrupt the water supply to your plants.

Follow these steps and installation tips to effectively insert easy loc and drip tape fittings in your drip irrigation system.

At DripWorks, we offer a wide range of easy loc and drip tape fittings that work with ⅝ drip tape. If you're wondering what fitting is suitable for your drip tape or poly tubing, or you have any queries related to drip irrigation components, reach out to us via call or email on weekdays. Our drip irrigation experts are always available to help you make the most out of your irrigation system.