Should You Install Your Own Sprinkler System?

If you consider yourself handy around the house, you can install your own lawn sprinklers and save money! Installing or replacing your own underground sprinkler system is an option to conserve water and save money on irrigation. This system can be a complicated installation project, but it can be done with the right plan.

What To Know Before You Start

If you don’t like calculating numbers or getting down and dirty digging trenches install pipes and sprinkler heads), you may not want to tackle this project yourself. But, if you thrive with these DIY projects, it’s a doable but challenging job.

Map Out Your System

Replacing your system yourself is easier if you measure and map out zones to determine where the pipe and controls need to go on your property. Planning and purchasing the right components are essential to a successful sprinkler system.

Do Your Research

Before designing your system and purchasing components, you also need to identify your home’s water pressure, water meter size, flow rate, service line size and know whether a backflow preventer is required for your area. It’s also a good idea to double-check to see if you need a permit to install your system or not.

Time To Dig

Follow your design and coverage area and start digging your trenches. Once you’ve dug your trenches 8 to 10 inches deep and about 4 inches wide, lay your pipes out in the trenches and fit the ends together. Once you put the pipes together, attach the risers, where each sprinkler will be located, then screw the sprinkler heads onto the risers.

Connect To Water

There are a couple of ways to connect your irrigation system to the water supply.

Like a garden hose, connect the valve to an existing outdoor faucet, which is usually located somewhere outside your house.
Connect the system directly to your service line. It may be best to have a plumber do this for you, but you could do it yourself. First, shut off the water supply. Second, cut a 1-inch section out of the service line, which can be found between the main shut-off and your house. Lastly, add a valve and a compression tee fitting. This will allow your system’s water supply to be controlled independently of your home system.

Maintaining Your System

Once your system is installed and connected, you are good to go! However, you may come across a needed repair from time to time. But, don’t worry, repairs aren’t nearly as daunting as the entire installation process. The most common repair you’ll encounter is a broken sprayer head that could become damaged by a lawnmower or string trimmer. Sprayer heads can sometimes get clogged by dirt or gravel, so if you have one that’s spraying funky, unscrew it, rinse it out and screw it back into place.

Trust the Experts at Stephens Plumbing

Don’t forget, If you want to avoid the hassle, contact Stephens Plumbing and we will be happy to do the job for you! When you contact Stephens Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning, we will be ready to understand your sprinkler valve issues and prepare to visit your home to assess the situation.