Sprinkler Connections: Proper sprinkler connections are essential to efficient operation and damage prevention. The typical rigid connection between sprinkler and pipe affords no flexibility of the assembly. If contacted by enough force such as from mowing equipment, foot traffic or vehicle tires, the inability to absorb the shock will cause a fitting failure or damaged sprinkler and pipe. See Figure 1 for an example of a widely used, but potentially problematic connection technique. A far superior connection can be seen in Figure 2. Note that the sprinkler is connected to the pipe via a flexible assembly of fittings and “swing pipe”. This allows a wide range of movement, resisting damage from being struck. It also allows the sprinkler to “float” during the freeze/thaw cycles of many climates. Also, as the lawn matures and thatch builds up, the sprinkler height is easily adjusted when necessary. The assembly of fittings and swing pipe will promote much more “laminar” flow of the water, reducing friction loss and increasing system efficiency. Again, this method requires a little more up front installation cost but results in maintenance savings in future years.

Valve Box Installation: The electric control valves of a lawn sprinkler system control the flow of water from the source to a number of sprinklers. Referred to as “zones” or “stations”, the automatic timer signals these valves at the appropriate time and for the programmed duration. They are typically buried in the ground but need to be accessed for system troubleshooting and system maintenance. Direct burial, although still practiced, is unacceptable. Burying in a “valve box” is the more common practice, but methods vary widely.

A Typical Installation		Water-Tech’s Method For Valve Box Installation
The valve box is placed over the valves in direct contact with the soil. The problem here is the lack of a solid foundation and the opportunity for soil to flow into the box. As the soil softens, the box can shift in the ground and fill with mud. This can result in some safety issues and lengthy repairs.		After selecting the best location for the box, a hole is excavated to about twice the volume needed for box placement. This provides ample space beneath and around the box for the foundation. Once the valves and piping are assembled, the bottom of the excavation is filled with compaction rock. The valve box is then set on this firm base and the space around the box is backfilled with rock to within 6” of the surface. Note that the rock covers all openings under and around the box preventing any soil or mud encroachment. The rock also promotes drainage, eliminating stagnate water.

These are just a few examples of the higher quality standards employed by Water-Tech Irrigation. For more information or for an estimate, contact us.

For information on the high technology, water conserving features of our installations, visit our page: high technology components.

To learn about our “FREE water” storage and re-use systems, visit our page: rain water harvesting.