Installing a sprinkler system can do wonders for your lawn and garden. What may initially feel like a complex task can be done with some knowledge and patience. In this guide, we will walk you through an easy-to-follow process of installing a sprinkler system in your yard. The inclusion of rain sensors in your irrigation setup can significantly enhance its efficiency.
Planning the Sprinkler System
Before anything else, it is integral to plan your system. Sketch out your yard, indicating areas such as the lawn, flower beds, shrubs, and trees. Highlight the spots where you want to install your sprinklers. Consider the type of sprinklers you plan on installing. Spray sprinklers work best for smaller lots while rotary sprinklers are great for larger lawns. You will also need to locate your water source and check its pressure using a pressure gauge. This will inform you how many sprinklers each zone can handle.
Acquiring Essential Materials
Once your plan is in place, purchase the necessary materials. The major items will include sprinkler heads, valves, pipes, and fittings including a backflow preventer to keep your water supply clean. Do not forget about the rain sensors. These devices are designed to automatically shut off your system during rain and can contribute significantly to water conservation.
Installing the Sprinkler System
Begin by connecting the system to your main water supply. Install the backflow preventer and a shutoff valve for easy control of the system. Next, start digging trenches for the pipes. Aim for a depth of about 8 to 10 inches to protect pipes from regular lawn activities and winter freeze-thaw cycles.
Lay PVC pipes in these trenches, ensuring to connect all the sprinklers in each zone before proceeding to the next. Install the valves in valve boxes at the start of each zone. Make a connection from the controller to each valve using multi-conductor wire. Next, screw the sprinkler heads onto risers.
Now it’s time to install your rain sensors. Locate them in an open site where they’ll quickly respond to rainfall. Connect the wires from the rain sensors to the corresponding wires on the controller. Once you’re done with the installation, fill the trenches back with soil and replace the sod.
System Check
Finally, test your new sprinkler system. Turn on one zone at a time to check that all the sprinkler heads are functioning as they should. Adjust the spray direction as needed. Remember to test your rain sensors too. They can be manually stimulated using a tuning fork or a small amount of water.
Installing a sprinkler system might require considerable effort and time, but the results are satisfying. Moreover, the integration of rain sensors will make it not only efficient but also environmentally friendly by conserving water.