Sprinkler System Installation Difficulty

Pipes

• Sprinkler pipes are used to deliver water underground to the sprinkler heads. Installing pipes requires the use of a mechanical trencher, which can be heavy and noisy. You also must use chemical cements to glue the connections between pipes, which can be a tricky process that requires planning to ensure the pipes are the right size and shape for the task at hand. In general, installing sprinkler pipes requires a basic knowledge of plumbing and being comfortable with chemical cements and saws.

Manifold

• The heart of your irrigation system, sprinkler manifolds control the flow of water from the main line to each zone on the system. Installing a sprinkler manifold is one of the most labor-intensive processes. You must dig out a hole for the manifold underground, connect the sprinkler valves to the pipes and glue together pieces of pipes, which is generally considered to be the most difficult part of the entire installation. You may want to employ a helper during this part of the process.

Vacuum Breaker

• Vacuum breakers are brass devices that are installed above the manifold. The breakers prevent water from flowing from inside the sprinkler lines back into the main line. Most areas require the use of a vacuum breaker as water that enters a sprinkler line is considered to be nonpotable. Installing a breaker is a simple process that requires the use of a pipe wrench and push-to-fit fittings. You may want a helper during this part to hold the breaker in place while attaching it to the main line pipe and the manifold below.

Control Timer

• Installing a sprinkler timer requires you to work with low-voltage electrical wires. These systems generally do not present much risk of electric shock as the currents are low and the system will be unplugged during the installation process. Installing the timer requires you to strip wires, connect wires and install grease caps to keep the connections watertight. Installing a control timer is not particularly difficult, however. Most systems come with instructions that are fairly easy to follow, and you will only be required to use a pair of wire strippers and a screwdriver.