How to Install an Outdoor Sprinkler System

If your lawn or garden seems lifeless and you're tired of watering it with a hose, you might consider installing an outdoor sprinkler system instead. By installing it yourself, you can save 30-40% of the cost a contractor would charge for installing it. Installing an outdoor sprinkler system is easier than you might think. Here's how to install an outdoor sprinkler system:

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• pen or pencil
• graph paper
• large bucket with measurements on the side
• pressure gauge
• internet connection

1. Measure the water pressure from the water source you will use for your outdoor sprinkler system. To do this, use a pressure gauge - you can buy one at your local home improvement store. Write down the water pressure measurement.

2. Measure the amount of water that comes out per minute by filling up a bucket that has measurements on the side. Let the water run in the bucket for one minute, then write down the water height measurement. This information is important to know when installing an outdoor sprinkler system.

3. Go to http://www.rainbird.com/diy/design/index.htm and download and complete Rain Bird's "Homeowner Sprinkler System Design Request Form" (link is listed in Resources below for your convenience).

4. On a piece of graph paper, draw a scale drawing of the property you want to install the outdoor sprinkler system on.

5. Send the measurements and the scaled drawing to Rain Bird Do-It-Yourself Irrigation (contact information in Resource links listed below). Rain Bird will send you a layout of a proposed sprinkler system along with a detailed materials list. Rain Bird's outdoor sprinkler system design package will include the following:
   
   1. Color-coded sprinkler head placement and spray patterns.
   2. Color-coded layout of zones, valves, pipe, timer and wire.
   3. A valve-by-valve parts list for easy installation.
   4. An itemized shopping list of all the parts you will need.

6. After you receive the outdoor sprinkler system design package, go to http://www.rainbird.com/diy/design/installguide.htm and follow the directions on how to install your outdoor sprinkler system (link is listed in Resources below for your convenience).

Tips & Warnings

• If you want to receive the outdoor sprinkler system layout faster, you can pay a fee of $29.95 to have it sent to you within 7 business days or $49.95 to have it sent to you within 3 business days.
• There are many sprinkler system manufacturers that will send you a proposed design for your outdoor sprinkler system - Rain Bird is only one example of the manufacturers you can choose from. I mention Rain Bird in this article because they have great service and outstanding online resources.

Resources

• Rain Bird Outdoor Sprinkler System Design Request Form
• Rain Bird Outdoor Sprinkler System Installation Guide
• Automatic Sprinkler Systems Interactive Guided Tour
• Contact Rain Bird

[athome]

on 5/5/2009 Installing a sprinkler system sounds like a lot of really hard work. I didnt even know you DIY it.

[makaksa]

on 5/5/2009 Nice article on installing outdoor sprinklers.

[tech411]

on 5/5/2009 Great tips! I may just have enough courage to go out and do it.

[kristara]

on 5/5/2009 I didn't realize you could actually install an outdoor sprinkler system yourself. 5*