Drip Irrigation Design Guide-Installing Drip Irrigation System
| Installing Drip Irrigation Systems Content Covered in this Section: Connecting to Water Source-All Types Installing Different Water Devices - All Types Flushing Out the System, End of Lines & Final Preperations Go To HOME
Connecting to Water Source - All Types Also known as the head assembly, the starting point of your drip irrigation system will consist of assembling your water source connection components. The parts you need will be based on the type of water source connection you have available. Most connections will fall into two categories: hose bibb, and irrigation valves. Hose bibb: For most backyard drip irrigation systems, connecting to a hose bibb is the most common connection. First, determine if this connection will be dedicated solely to your drip system or if you will still need access for a garden hose. Installing a Y style ball valve will split you existing connection into two. Be sure to install each component in order and in the proper direction of flow.
Use Teflon tape to make watertight connections between components with pipe threads and o-rings or hose washers with components with hose threads. Hand tighten each part to make a water tight seal. Be sure not to over tighten any hose thread connections, over tightening can cause the threads to strip and become damaged. Irrigation Valves: For an above ground installation, start with installing anti-siphon valves. An anti-siphon valve combines a valve and vacuum breaker in one device, so there is no need to install a separate vacuum breaker. On the downstream of the valve, you will need to install a filter, pressure regulator and hose tubing adapter. These parts can be installed just below the valves outlet or in a valve box for access to the filter. Inline valves need to be installed in conjunction with a back flow preventer. Back flow preventers are larger versions of the vacuum breaker and are mainly installed and large residential or commercial installations. Check with your local municipality for any code requirements concerning the use of backflow preventers. Inline valves will require a filter, pressure regulator and tubing adapter. Irrigation Direct offers preassembled drip zone kits.
Ref 2013 |
