Common DIY Mistakes When Installing Your Irrigation System

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Common DIY Mistakes When Installing Your Irrigation System

Common DIY Mistakes When Installing Your Irrigation System

30 March 2023
 Categories:
, Blog


Installing an irrigation system on your own can save you a lot of money — but it can also be a really challenging task. With all the different components, variables, and details to consider, making mistakes is easy. 

Here are some of the most common mistakes you might make when installing your own irrigation system.

Choosing the Wrong Sprinkler Heads

Sprinkler heads are the most visible part of an irrigation system, but they are also one of the most important. Choosing the wrong type can mean that your lawn isn't getting enough water, or it could be getting too much.

Selecting heads with too high of a spray radius may result in over-watering, while heads with too low of a spray radius may not provide enough coverage. In some cases, selecting a head with the wrong pressure rating can also cause problems. The pressure rating refers to the amount of water pressure needed for a sprinkler head to operate properly.

Remember that sprinkler heads operate through the water pressure from the main line. They rotate and spray water in a particular pattern but can only do so if the main water line has enough pressure to drive them.

Incorrectly Measuring Pipes

Another serious mistake that people make when installing their own irrigation systems is incorrectly measuring pipes. The pipes are the main line through which all the water is delivered to each sprinkler head. They also account for most of the cost in an irrigation system, so it's important to get the measurements right.

If your pipes are too small, you'll likely experience a decrease in water pressure, which can greatly reduce the effectiveness of your irrigation system. If your pipes are too large, you'll be wasting money on parts that you don't really need.

Experience, research, and good measuring habits are the best ways to prevent this common mistake. But it isn't always easy. Hire a professional to ensure the pipes you have are the right size and length.

Neglecting to Install a Backflow Preventer

Backflow preventers are essential components of any irrigation system. They keep the water from flowing back into your home's plumbing system, which is important for safety reasons. The backflow preventer is a valve that prevents water from flowing backward through your pipes. This helps ensure that any chemicals, bacteria, or other contaminants aren't introduced into your home.

You should install this valve right after the main shut-off valve so that any water that flows through the line doesn't reach your home. This is sometimes a requirement for many local building codes, and failure to do so could result in hefty fines or even liability issues later on.

To find out more, contact a company like Waterford Irrigation Supply Inc.

About Me
Learning About Agricultural Equipment

Hello, my name is Nora. Welcome to my site. I am excited to talk to you about agricultural equipment. I was raised on a farm where we grew all of our own fruits and vegetables. As a family, we maintained the farmland together. We all learned how to operate the agricultural equipment to tend the fields of fresh produce. I will talk about the different types of equipment we used for each task. I will also discuss the maintenance and repairs required for those items. Please visit my site again soon to learn more about this important topic. Thank you.