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Getting Started

When installing a low volume irrigation system, please remember: drip systems and micro sprinklers require clean water and operate at lower pressures than regular sprinkler systems. During installation, using a filter and a pressure regulator will insure that your system remains trouble free for years to come.

Components of a low volume irrigation systems are: controller, valves, filters, pressure regulator,drip fittings, drip tubing, micro tubing, drippers, drip soaker tape, laser drilled soaker hose, micro sprinklers, sprayers and accessories

Review of the parts you may need to start your system:

• AC Powered Controllers: AC powered controllers are usually used in systems with more then one zone. They offer more expandability than battery operated controllers but they require more time and effort to install.
• Battery Powered Controller: Battery powered controllers will many times incorporate an "all-in-one" design that can be hooked directly to a faucet or other water source. These types of controllers are ideal for small systems with a single zone.
• Electric Valve Assembly: If you use an AC powered controller, you will need the valve assembly to go with it. Think of a valve assembly like an Erector set, you build and expand it as needed. Need more zones? add more valves.
• Backflow Preventer: Required in many areas, a Backflow Preventer keeps dirty water from re-entering your household water system, and should always be used when applying fertilizer. Backflow Preventers, when used, are the first item in your line after your faucet or hose bib.
• Filters: All drip systems require a filter (MANDATORY) at the beginning of the system to protect the small orifices of drippers and micro sprinklers from clogging. Choose the correct thread (hose or pipe) and the size for your system, and remember to periodically remove and rinse the screen to keep the filter clean. Standard 155 mesh screen is recommended.
• Filter/Fertilizer Applicator: If you choose to apply fertilizer directly through your system, a filter/fertilizer applicator may be used with either hose or pipe thread. It will keep incoming water clean, and can apply granular or tablet fertilizer. It will accommodate up to four spoons of any water soluble granular fertilizer at one time and the only maintenance required is to remove and rinse the screen with fresh water after each use to keep the filter/ applicator clean.
• Pressure Regulators: Hose thread and pipe thread. Pressure regulator reduces the incoming pressure entering your system to the recommended operating pressure of the drip or micro sprinkler system. Pressure regulators are designed for use on your irrigation systems only and may be installed after your filter. Choose the correct thread (hose or pipe). Pressure regulators should never be installed on a mainline where it is under constant pressure.
• Conversion Elbow: If you choose to start from a 1/2" riser, use a conversion elbow to go from 1/2" male thread to 3/4" hose thread. Then add a pressure regulator and either swivel adapter for 1/2" poly tube or an adapter for 1/4" micro tube.

NOTE: When connecting your components, please make sure you are using the correct thread. Do not mix hose and pipe threads as they will leak.