How to Install a Sprinkler System: Homeowners’ Guide

Florida homeowners know the importance of watering schedules to keep grass healthy. Doing it manually, though, isn’t a viable long-term solution. That’s why many homeowners opt for an automatic sprinkler system. Not only will it save you the hassle of watering your yard, but it will also water your grass consistently in a sustainable manner. A sprinkler system does more than just fulfill a watering schedule; it saves your system from the damage time would do with inconsistent watering.

If you’re considering a DIY installation or just researching calling a professional for sprinkler system repair in Saint Johns, FL, you can find everything from planning to designing the system, installing it, common mistakes to avoid, and system maintenance to allow it to run for years with this guide.

How to Install a Sprinkler System

Designing irrigation zones, trenching and laying PVC irrigation pipes, adding a backflow preventer and zone valves, connecting sprinkler heads, planning the spacing and wiring the controllers, and conducting a leak and coverage flow test on the system describes the installation of a sprinkler system for most residential installations. By far, the planning and irrigation system design phase of the project is the most important step, as it will provide for long-term sustainability and efficiency of the system.

Key Takeaways

• A good irrigation system design evenly distributes water.
• Irrigation zones help deliver specific water needs to particular lawn zones.
• Underground irrigation systems minimize water loss compared to manual systems.
• Automated irrigation systems are more consistent and help cover entire lawn areas.
• Placement and spacing of sprinkler heads are key to effective coverage.
• Backflow preventers protect the water supply from potential contamination.
• System inspections and maintenance improve performance.
• Complex systems, or larger areas, may require professional installation.

What Is an In-Ground Sprinkler System?

An underground irrigation system works using technology to automatically supply water to specific zones based on pre-programmed data using a woven network of pipes and sprinkler heads located below the lawn surface. The main components are the controller, valves, PVC irrigation pipe, sprinkler heads, and a backflow preventer.

To get to the sprinkler heads, the water flows through the main supply line and the controller-activated valves, and then through the now-buried pipes. Compared to using the hose, a manual watering system is less efficient, whereas a built-in setup gives the user an opportunity to plan coverage for the entire system ahead of time. Additionally, automatic systems have been proven to give a better, more even coverage, which reduces waste.

How Does an In-Ground Sprinkler System Work?

The system is fed from the house’s main water supply. It works by moving water through different zones called zone valves. Each zone can be programmed differently for watering schedules with the controller. When it’s time to water a zone, the corresponding valve opens. Water then flows through the PVC pipe to the sprinkler heads for that zone. The sprinkler heads pop up, spray water, and then go back down once the watering cycle is finished.

The system works on a zone-by-month basis to improve watering efficiency. The different sections of the property, like grass, garden, shaded areas, and sunny areas, can have varying water needs, and irrigation zones customize watering for each of those sections to prevent wasteful overwatering or underwatering.

Section 1: Planning Your Sprinkler System Installation

Careful planning is the most crucial step for a successful sprinkler system installation. Good planning ensures that the system efficiently uses water throughout its lifetime and gives good performance.

The first step to planning is measuring the lawn. Make a scaled diagram of the lawn and all features, including the house, driveway, and garden. In lawn planning, all features need to be accounted for, as they determine how the pipes and sprinklers will be positioned.

• Identify Watering Needs: Plant categories such as grass, flowers, shrubs, and specialty plantings have unique watering needs. To minimize the incidence of overwatering and underwatering, group plants with similar watering needs.
• Determine Irrigation Zones: Use the property map to help determine how many zones are required. Typically, residential properties have between 2 and 6 irrigation zones. This number will vary depending on the size of the property and landscaping.
• Check Water Pressure and Flow Rate: Outdoor calibrated gauges can be used to check the water pressure of the residential system. A majority of homes have a water pressure between 30 and 50 PSI. Water flow rate is used to determine the number of sprinkler heads used within a zone, but it is typically measured in gallons per minute.
• Select the Right Sprinkler Heads: There are many styles of sprinkler heads, and as a result, different watering zones will require different sprinkler heads. For instance, large open turf zones will require rotary heads, whereas smaller garden turf zones will require fixed spray heads. Narrow or sloped zones may require specialty heads.
• Create a Formal Irrigation System Design: This is the final system overview to document the planned design before purchasing any of the system components. A design will include pipe routes, sprinkler head locations, valves, and irrigation zones.

Section 2: Tools and Materials Needed

The quality and selection of materials and tools will impact the efficiency of the system design and installation process. Using quality irrigation components pays off, and quality components mean quality construction, which leads to durable, low-maintenance systems.

Tools Required:

• Shovel or earth mover
• Pipe cutter
• Marking tape
• Wire connectors
• Pipe glue and primer (PVC)
• Utility knife

Materials Required:

• PVC irrigation pipe
• Some sprinkler heads
• Zone valves
• Valve manifold
• Fittings
• Backflow preventer
• Irrigation controller
• Control wire

Sprinkler head type is important for system efficiency. Knowing the various types of lawn sprinkler nozzles and their applications, such as the fixed spray, rotary, bubbler, drip, and others, enables the selection of the right sprinkler head for the needed coverage for each zone.

Section 3: Sprinkler Installation Instructions

Sprinkler Installation Prep Checklist

1. Measure and map the lawn.
2. Design irrigation zones.
3. Measure water pressure and check flow rate.
4. Mark utility locations.
5. Dig trenches.
6. Install pipes.
7. Install valves and the backflow preventer.
8. Install the sprinkler heads.
9. Connect and install the controller.
10. Test and adjust the system.

Step 1: Design the Irrigation Layout

Using your lawn map, designate the start and endpoints of all irrigation zones and place heads on the map. Draw the pipe route on the map. Your zones should be grouped by similar plants, and head placement should be done to ensure coverage and eliminate dry areas.

Step 2: Mark Utility Lines

Call the utility locating service in your area (in the U.S., that is 811) to mark the underground utility lines for gas, electricity, water, and cable. Failing to take this precaution can lead to dangerous and costly accidents. Be sure to wait the designated amount of time after calling before starting to dig.

Step 3: Dig Trenches

You need to dig trenches 8 to 12 inches deep for an irrigation system to keep the pipes safe from trampling and surface damage. However, it shouldn’t be so deep that it is hard to access the pipes for repairs later. In Florida, the depth of frost is irrelevant, but having a consistent depth for your trenches will help support the pipes to prevent sagging that will affect the flow of water. Make sure to follow the layout plan of the property to avoid cutting through places that you shouldn’t and to make servicing the pipes in the future easier.

Step 4: Install PVC Irrigation Pipe

Start with the main supply and install the pipes for each irrigation zone. Use a pipe cutter to avoid leaving jagged edges and to ensure the cuts are straight. For corners and junctions, be sure to use the appropriate fittings, which are elbows, tees, and couplings. Each joint needs to have PVC primer applied before the glue. Take time with this step of the process as the joints are the most likely place for a system to fail.

Step 5: Install Valves and Backflow Preventer

Before valves and backflow preventers can be installed, a 1-inch supply line must be run from the backflow preventer. The backflow preventer is critical in keeping the potable water supply free and clear from contaminants such as soil and fertilizer. Once the valves and backflow preventers are installed, route your control wires to the controller location. The control wires determine the operation of each of the individual zone valves.

Step 6: Install Sprinkler Heads

Sprinkler heads are now to be installed at the designated locations per the irrigation design plan. A common method of attaching a head is to use a riser pipe or a swing joint. When you install the sprinkler heads, make sure the heads are positioned at or slightly below ground level. This is to prevent the heads from being obstructed or damaged during watering. The placement of sprinkler heads is necessary to prevent dry spots and ensure adequate watering of each zone.

Step 7: Connect Controller and Wiring

The irrigation controller is usually installed in the garage, a weatherproof irrigation controller box mounted on the exterior wall, or some other sheltered area. Attach control wires to the appropriate terminals for each zone. Modern irrigation controllers can be programmed to control individual zones, have a rain delay feature, and integrate with smart home technology. Program the run time for each zone, considering the needs of the plants and the rate of water distributed by the irrigation heads for that zone.

Step 8: Test the System

Make sure to test all zones and control features before covering the trenches. Test each zone from the controller and observe the area while the zone runs. Confirm all heads extend and retract properly, there are no leaks in the system, no dry or uncovered spots, and no areas with too much water. Adjust the head angle or arc as needed to cover wet spots. Once all zones have been properly tested, cover the trenches and lightly compact the soil to fill in the area.

Section 4: Common Sprinkler Installation Mistakes to Avoid

Irrigation systems are very complex, and mistakes can plague even the most carefully thought-out designs. Here are a few of the more critical and common mistakes that result in significant repair costs, inefficient systems, and the cumbersome task of dealing with dry and overwatered areas:

• Inefficient Design of the Irrigation System: Effective zoning requires careful planning and should not be done in a rush. Lack of effective zoning will result in dry areas and areas that are overwatered. It will also require more water to operate the design.
• Incorrectly Spaced Sprinklers: Leaving gaps is a result of placing heads too far apart. Too close together, and you waste water through overlap. Aim for head-to-head coverage.
• Not Factoring Water Pressure: Too many heads on a single zone without factoring pressure and flow will lead to inadequate coverage for all heads. Pressure should always be tested prior to flow and zone design.
• Trenching Too Shallow: Shoulders on the pipes leave the system vulnerable to damage from foot traffic, equipment, and shifting. Reinforced depths are advised.
• No Backflow Preventer: Not optional. This is a critical safety feature and a code requirement in many localities, provided for the safety of the water supply.
• Not Testing Before Backfilling: Covers gaps and leaks. Testing the system is a requirement before closing the installation.

Section 5: Can You Install a Sprinkler System Yourself?

If you are confident in your ability and committed enough to get the right tools and learn the basics of plumbing, a simple installation with few design constraints may be in your skill range. Largely, you are taking this on for significant savings.

Can you install a sprinkler system yourself? It isn’t just about being the first person on your block to have one. It takes planning, digging, precision, and more. You can’t just make a connection and hope for the best. You have to think about the layout to avoid waste, damage to your lawn, and other possible mistakes that may not become apparent until your system has run for a whole season.

If you have a larger property, multiple zones, or a more complex layout, you’ll probably want to hire a professional for your residential irrigation system. In the St. Johns, FL area, Johnny’s Lawncare can assess your property to see if you can get away with the DIY approach or if it’s better for you to hire a pro.

Section 6: Sprinkler System Maintenance Tips

Even the best systems need maintenance to perform well.

• Sprinkler heads should be inspected seasonally, and it’s best to run each zone to do this. You can also check for any damage caused by lawn tools.
• Nozzle obstruction should also be corrected. You may want to regularly check your heads and clean your nozzles as needed.
• Water pressure can drop for a number of reasons, but if the pressure drops and coverage becomes inconsistent, it may be time to check for a leak.
• Update schedules for seasonal changes. Florida summer months require more watering than the spring and fall months. Instead of keeping a stagnant watering schedule all year, adjust the controller settings to match the seasonal changes.
• Check sprinklers for leaks after cutting or edging the lawn. After edging, mowing, or aerating the lawn, check the lawn for damage. These also help you spot if the equipment has damaged any sprinkling lines.
• Make sure to check the settings on your sprinkler controllers periodically to ensure each zone is watering for the proper time. During outages, the controllers have been known to lose their settings.

Conclusion

Building your own sprinkler system can be a very rewarding experience. It can save you the daily hassle of watering the lawn yourself and can save you money in the long run. It also allows you to create an automatic irrigation system that waters your lawn while conserving water to the best of your ability. Creating an automatic sprinkler system involves a lot of little tasks, like completing your irrigation system design, determining the number of zones, and laying down PVC piping.

All of those tasks eventually lead to the same goal of having a working setup. The most important part of the process is the system design. Everything else is minor compared to that task. If that is something you are not able to do yourself, or if you want to avoid the hassle of a DIY project, Johnny’s Lawncare is available to provide the best irrigation services and installation in St. Johns and Jacksonville. For a closer look at your hardware, check out our guide on how to install the Sprinkler Heads.

Frequently Asked Questions