After 40 years installing Residential Irrigation systems, I thought it was time  I put the steps in writing.  Here are the most asked questions about how systems are installed and the components.

Irrigation Terms

Controller - The Brain of the system - Solid state device used to operate (turns on/off valves) the system using multiple programs.  There are many new models such as Smart Controllers that can more efficiently use water.

Valves - The Heart of the system -  Each zone (area) can be controlled separately.  Each valve has underground wiring connected to the controller.

Heads - Devices that emit the water

• Rotary heads - Rotates as water sprays
• MP Rotators - multiple mini-streams rotates as water sprays
• Lawn Spray - Heads that have fan type spray from 2 feet to 17 radius
• Shrub spray - Fixed riser heads or pop-up heads that have fan type spray from 2 feet to 17 radius
• Drip - low flow, low pressure device that delivers water  through a small inline pipe of single deice to apply water at rootline

Backflow Preventors -  Device attached to main water line to allow water to enter system but not return to your water line to the home or city water main.  They are installed above ground and must be protected from freezing.

Sensors - Device installed to shut off system during and after rain fall or below freezing temperatures.  These devices automatically reset after the rain or cold event occurs.

Other sensors are avaiable that measure the soils dampness.  Most sensors work indepentdant of the controller.  We even have weather stations that will measure and compensate for conditions and readjust your schedule.

Steps for Professional Installation

1. Tap the existing water line.  We install a tee in the water service line to your home & set a shutoff valve.  We extend this piping to the corner of your home where we install the backflow preventer between 18"-30" tall (above ground).

2. Trench the yard. Install valves for each zone. Install proper headsand piping for each zone. Add wiring to the controller usually installed in the garage.

3.  Backfill the soil and compact trenches using a water settling technique.

4. Install Controller, Sensors, backflow preventer heatape.

5. Start up system running each zone.  Flush, test & adjust system.

6. Instruct you how to schedule your system &  operate the controller.

7.  Follow up adjustments at 30 days, 90 days, and one year.  We will also touch up any settling that might occur in the trenches.

There you have it.  This covers about 70% of the questions clients have asked me about installing their sprinkler system in Tulsa.

I know I have missed something.  Comment or ask a question below!

Or click below to get your Free Estimate!