Sprinkler System: Common Sprinkler Set Up and Tools Used

A sprinkler system is an automated irrigation system that uses pipes, valves, and sprinkler heads to efficiently apply water to the garden and lawn. It applies water to the soil surface in a way that mimics rainfall. A sprinkler system is more convenient and effective than watering your lawn by hand, saving you time. A yard sprinkler system is crucial in growing a healthy garden and maintaining a beautiful, lush landscape. However, for proper installation and ongoing maintenance, you must understand the basic components and tools used to install the sprinkler system.

This irrigation system relies on different parts and tools for a complete setup, so we will look at the components of the sprinkler irrigation system and the tools used to set it up. Here is everything you need to know about sprinkler system setup.

Essential Components of Sprinkler System

These components are the nuts and bolts of the sprinkler system. With a few simple tools and knowledge, you can easily set up a sprinkler system.

Sprinkler Heads

Sprinkler heads are the most important part of the sprinkler system as these are the parts where the water comes out. There are different types of sprinkler heads available with varying spray nozzles, volumes, and flow rates. Sprinkler heads are positioned around the yard to provide uniform coverage to the entire area. The most common types of sprinklers include rotary, pop-up, impact, oscillating, and gear-driven sprinklers.

Backflow Preventer

The backflow preventer device prevents water from entering your drinking water. It is installed where you turn off the water to your irrigation system. If you're using fertilizers in the irrigation system, installing a backflow preventer is crucial to prevent water source contamination.

Irrigation Controller or Timer

The irrigation controller, also known as the timer, is the brain of the sprinkler system. The controller controls when the water will flow by sending a signal to valves open and close. Each valve controls a set of sprinklers, known as a zone or station. When the controller reaches a start time, it tells the valve to open by sending a signal. The valve opens and releases water into the zone. Water flows through piping to sprinklers. The water pressure activates the sprinkler heads, and they start applying watering.

When the runtime ends, the controller signals the valve to close. Water stops entering the piping, water pressure decreases, and the sprinklers disengage. The process repeats for each irrigation zone in the sprinkler system.

Read More: All About Irrigation Controller or Water Timer

Piping and Fittings

Piping is the network of PVC or polyethylene pipes that carries water from the main source throughout the yard. Your lines will either be placed below or above the ground. The pipes connect to the valves using fittings and are connected to sprinklers. Use a PVC pipe from the water source for your valves. After the valves, you can use PVC or polyethylene tubing, a funny pipe, or a swing pipe. There are short vertical pipes called risers that extend from horizontal pipes. The sprinkler heads are attached to the risers at the required position. The other components used to install piping include adapters and swing joints.

Valves

Valves control the water flow through each zone of an irrigation system. They divide the different zones and help them run independently. The grouping of irrigation valves is called a manifold. When the valves are grouped, they reduce the wiring time and make maintenance convenient. All valves are connected to a valve box and controller.

Valve Box: A valve box is used to house and protect underground irrigation valves. It has a green cover with beveled edges, allowing for easier access and minimizing damage to valves from lawn equipment.

Water Meter: This measures how much water is used in each irrigation zone of your yard. A flow sensor or meter determines how quickly or slowly water is moving through the irrigation system. The meter then sends the information to the controller, which helps detect water issues.

Water Source: This can be a local water supply, pump, well, or another water source.

Tools Used in Sprinkler System Installation

Sprinkler tools are essential for installing and maintaining sprinkler systems. DripWorks' cutting tools, hand tools, and sprinkler adjustment tools allow you to easily and quickly assemble your sprinkler irrigation system. Here are the tools you will need to set up a sprinkler system.

PVC Pipe Cutter: The pipe cutter is a must-have tool as it helps to make straight, smooth cuts. It allows you to make cuts easier with advanced comfort. Its polished blades are directly guided at right angles and cut neatly.

Thread Sealant Tape or Teflon Tape: Thread sealant tape, also called PTFE tape, plumbers' tape, and Teflon tape, is used to seal every pipe threaded fitting securely. When installing piping and sprinklers, many joints or couplings don't have an end seal. To make the connection water-tight, wrap 3-4 layers of thread sealant tape around the threads to make the connection water-tight. This tape works on PVC, plastic, brass, iron, copper, and aluminum piping.

Hand Tools: These include a shovel, screwdrivers, and pliers. These tools are useful for every sprinkler system installation as they allow you to connect the required components and do small digging tasks.

Get High-Quality Sprinkler System Components and Sprinkler Tools at DripWorks

Choosing the right products for your lawn sprinkler system's installation and maintenance is crucial for efficient irrigation. DripWorks carries all types of sprinklers, sprinkler tools, and components used to set up a sprinkler system. We stock high-quality irrigation products from top brands like K-Rain, Rain Bird, Hunter, Toro, and Hydro-Rain Blue Lock.

By choosing the best sprinklers and other products from top industry brands at DripWorks, you can ensure successful installation and reduce water wastage and high utility bills. If you have any questions about products, contact our irrigation experts to help you find the components suitable for your garden and lawn. Visit our Blog for helpful tips, tutorials, and sprinkler system instructions!