Mister Landscaper Drip Irrigation Landscape Kit, Green, Fittings & Tubing Included, Water up to 250-sq ft of Landscapes Model #MLK-81

A drip irrigation system is a great way to conserve water, save money and efficiently maintain the garden and landscape plants around your home. This Do-it-Yourself irrigation system is a great weekend project. Kits can often be installed in under an hour.

This guide is for reference purposes only. Be sure to read, understand and follow all manufacturer instructions. Additionally, depending on the manufacturer, some products may differ in name but not function. Where applicable we have tried to note these variations. Also, when designing a system based around the flow rates of your outdoor hose bibb faucets, know that there may be some variation from one manufacturer to the next in product water usage. Be aware of any manufacturer-specific system restrictions.

 

In most instances, drip irrigation is a blanket term which encompasses several different low-volume watering methods and products. The terms “drip irrigation” and “low-volume irrigation” are often used interchangeably. Drip irrigation is a low-pressure, low-volume landscape and garden watering system that efficiently irrigates a plant’s root zone, using far less water than traditional, high-volume sprinklers. In some cases, water savings can be as much as 50%. Drip irrigation is green and easy, offering tremendous savings in time, water, and money. While drip irrigation systems use less water than underground sprinkler systems or lawn sprinklers, watering of any kind may be restricted in some areas. Learn your local water regulations before buying and installing any irrigation system.

Drip Irrigation Methods:Under the heading “drip irrigation” there are, generally, two unique product categories: drippers and micro sprinklers. Sometimes, with some products, the line between these two is blurred. We’ll take a closer look at each category. Choosing the right product for a specific application is crucial for obtaining the best results with the highest savings.

What are Micro Sprinklers? Micro sprinklers are a form of low-volume irrigation that use small diameter tubing and small orifice micro sprinkler heads to help limit water output. Some manufacturers utilize flow controllers and on/off valves to further limit water consumption. Micro sprinklers, in many ways, sound like what they are: small sprinklers. Micro sprinklers deliver water in a way that is useful to your plants: The droplets land gently, and deliver water more directly to the root zone. Depending on manufacturer, micro sprinklers may also be called micro sprays, micro sprayers, or misters.

Ideal Applications for Micro Sprinklers: Micro sprinklers can be used to water just about anything in your landscape and garden. Varied patterns, spray angles, and, in some cases, adjustable flow rates mean the creative possibilities are endless. To get you started, here are a few ideal applications for micro sprinkler irrigation: flower gardens, vegetable gardens, trees, shrubs, and all your landscape plants and flowers. With micro sprinklers, one of the big advantages is coverage. And with that coverage comes a lot of flexibility, especially in the way of spray pattern selection. Some micro sprinklers are great for general purpose watering, while others are designed for a specific purpose or space (Fig. A).

Micro Sprinkler Water Usage: Micro sprinklers use only slightly more water than drippers, but they offer much greater coverage. Exact GPH figures depend on a number of factors. Some manufacturers offer violet flow controllers with their micro sprinklers. These limit water usage to just 10 gallons per hour. If a flow controller is not used, water output will change with variations in water pressure, number of micro sprinklers on a line, and changes in elevation down the length of a line. Also, for more flexibility, some manufacturers offer on/off valves. On/off valves allow you to adjust the water output of individual micro sprinklers. Refer to the manufacturer for exact GPH usage.

Kinds of Micro Sprinklers: Micro sprinklers can be divided into three different categories: One-piece micro sprinklers (no moving parts), spinners (water pressure causes the rotating head to spin), and swap tops (a removable top allows for three patterns to be created). While all micro sprinklers deliver water in a similar way, what makes each unique is the pattern it creates. Choosing the right micro sprinkler for the job helps you get the most from your drip irrigation system.

Anatomy of a Micro Sprinkler: Micro sprinklers have a very simple water delivery system. Water travels through the threaded stem then out the orifice, where it contacts the head of the micro sprinkler, resulting in a spray pattern (Fig. B). Spinners also function in this way. The only difference is the spinning head. Water is forced out the channel/channels, causing the head to spin (Fig. C).

 

What are Drippers? Depending on region and manufacturer, drippers may also be called emitters. There are various kinds of drippers, but all emit small amounts of water from tiny orifices where it is delivered directly to a plant’s root zone.

Ideal Applications for Drippers:Drippers are hugely versatile in that they are perfect for small jobs, yet they can still be used in larger, more demanding situations. Here are just a few ideal applications: Potted plants, hanging baskets, row gardens, tree rings, raised beds, and stand-alone plants and shrubs (Fig. D). Drippers tend to be a bit more specialized. Use them in places where a micro sprinkler may be overkill, or where you prefer a lower profile.

Dripper Water Usage: Depending on the kind of drippers you choose, water usage can be anywhere from a half gallon of water per hour all the way up to ten gallons per hour. That said, generally speaking, expect to use between one half to two gallons per hour, per dripper, in most applications. Kinds of Drippers: There are several different kinds and styles of drippers on the market. To get the most out of your drip irrigation system, it’s important to understand the differences, capabilities, and advantages of each. Here’s a brief overview to get you started:

• PC or pressure compensating drippers control water output regardless of the water pressure in a particular line. This helps maintain consistency from dripper to dripper and plant to plant.

• Standard drippers, like in-line drippers and flag drippers, can be great additions to any low-volume irrigation system. But be aware, they are not pressure compensating.

• Drip tubing has pressure compensating drippers placed every foot. Each dripper delivers the same amount of water, regardless of where it is in the line. Drip tubing is available in 1/4-in and 1/2-in diameters.

Anatomy of a Dripper: Though there are multiple kinds and styles of drippers, they all function in a similar way. Water must enter. It must be slowed down (some amount of pressure reduction). And finally it must exit. To accomplish this, most drippers employ some type of labyrinth (turbulent flow) system (Fig. E). Note that just because some pressure reduction does occur, not all drippers are labeled “pressure compensating”.

When a dripper is labeled “pressure compensating”, it uses a diaphragm in conjunction with the turbulent flow system (Fig. F). This diaphragm adjusts to pressure fluctuations in the line.

One final point about drippers: Most drippers have a very definite inlet and outlet (Fig. G). If you attempt to install the wrong end, you are likely to encounter blowouts. Most drippers have a barbed inlet. This barb will make all connections secure.

Not Just a Dripper, Not Just a Micro Sprinkler: There are several drip irrigation emitters which can be classified as both drippers and micro sprinklers. Because their flow rate can be adjusted, these adjustable dripper stakes, adjustable drippers, and bubblers can both drip and spray. These emitters can be used anywhere other drippers and micro sprays are used and are extremely versatile. Adjustable dripper stakes, adjustable drippers, and bubblers can be turned on and off, and can be adjusted to deliver a 1 GPH drip all the way up to a delicate 10 GPH 5-8 stream spray. These drippers are adjusted by rotating the head. Pot stakes are small micro sprinklers and are also adjustable up to 7.6 gallons of water per hour. Be aware that none of these products are pressure compensating. If too many are in use on a single line, more water will be delivered from the first drippers than from those at the end, resulting in uneven watering. Refer to the manufacturer for all maximum run restrictions.

How to Choose:There are, certainly, some applications where one type of low-volume irrigation is more suitable than the other. But, there are a number of applications where either is perfectly acceptable. Know and understand the benefits of each micro sprinkler and dripper to design a system that works best for you and your garden or landscape. To further assist with the decision making process, below are lists of advantages and potential disadvantages to both drippers and micro sprinklers.

The benefits of using drip irrigation are significant. You play an active role in conserving water, a precious natural resource, while also saving time and money. Here are just some of the ways in which drip irrigation can be a benefit.

Water Savings: A single traditional sprinkler head can use up to 144 gallons of water per hour. A drip irrigation system can use up to 50% less than a traditional sprinkler system. With Drip irrigation you get gentle and precise root-zone watering that minimizes runoff, erosion, over spray and evaporation.

Time Savings: With no gluing and digging required, and with the overall ease of installation, the time commitment for this DIY project is minimal. And the time saved by using a drip irrigation system, compared to hand-watering your landscape, garden, and potted plants, is significant.

Money Savings: A traditional irrigation system can be expensive and difficult to install, often requiring the help of a professional contractor. A drip irrigation system, on the other hand, is an inexpensive do-it-yourself project, which does not require the added cost of glues and special tools. And, if you have to pay for your water, less water used in your landscape and garden translates to more money left in your pockets.

Convenience and Flexibility: A complete drip irrigation system is easy to install, connects directly to an outdoor hose bibb faucet, and can be expanded and customized to meet your exact watering needs. Supply lines can be left on the surface or buried under a layer of mulch. There are no messy glues and no need to dig trenches or to cut into your home’s water lines. A drip irrigation system can be completely customized to water everything in your landscapes, flower gardens, vegetable and row gardens, raised beds, potted plants, hanging baskets and much more. The possibilities are endless.

Plant Health:Over-watering can lead to drowning, and an overly moist environment can promote fungal diseases. A drip irrigation system efficiently and effectively delivers water directly to the root zone, minimizing the potential for over-watering, making for happier, healthier plants.

Start with a Kit: By far, the easiest way to get started with drip irrigation is by installing a kit. They’re fast, affordable, and a fun DIY project that can typically be completed in less than an hour. Kits come with all the parts and accessories needed to complete a drip irrigation project. And most of them can be expanded, so your system can grow as your needs increase. There are kits available for your flowers and landscapes (Fig. A). Some kits are geared toward patio potted plants and hanging baskets (Fig. B). And others are perfectly designed for row gardens and raised beds (Fig. C). There are a number of kits available to meet all your landscape, patio, and garden watering needs. Choose the kit that’s best for you, and get started today.

Simple Installation: One of the biggest advantages to using a kit is that all the guess work has been removed. Necessary parts and easy-to-follow installation instructions are all included. When you’re done, it just works. Kits help make getting started with drip irrigation extremely simple and straight forward.



Easy Steps for Installing Micro Sprinklers:With a kit and easy to follow instructions, installing micro sprinklers in your landscape and/or garden is quick and simple.

Easy Steps for Installing Pot Stakes:Pot stakes are small, adjustable micro sprinklers. Like Adjustable dripper Stakes and Bubblers, their small size makes them ideal for use in potted plants.

Easy Steps for Installing Adjustable Dripper Stakes and Bubblers:Adjustable Dripper Stakes and Bubblers are well suited for a number of applications, but their size and adjustability make them ideal for patio potted plants, window boxes and hanging baskets.

Easy Steps for Installing In-Line Drip Tubing:In-Line Drip Tubing Kits are perfect for row gardens of any kind. A quick and easy installation helps make watering and growing your own fruits and vegetables using drip irrigation simple and convenient.

Starting from Scratch: Of course, you can always build a system from scratch, from the ground up. Here are the basics for getting started without a kit: Begin with a backflow valve or anti siphon valve (Fig. D). Next, install a 1/2-in hose fitting for use with a 1/2-in poly tubing main line (Fig. E), or a 1/4-in faucet adapter for use with 1/4-in tubing (Fig. F). From there, use 1/2-in fittings or 1/4-in fittings to customize the layout of your system. Finally, end a 1/2-in poly line with an end fitting or end crimper (Fig. E).

With 1/2-in tubing, micro sprinklers, pot stakes (Fig. G), drippers, adjustable drippers, adjustable dripper stakes, bubblers and drip tubing can all be run (Fig. H).

With 1/4-in tubing, drippers, adjustable dripper stakes, bubblers, drip tubing, and pot stakes can be run. (Fig. I)

Pressure Regulators / Filters / Timers: When building a system from the ground up sometimes the order of installation can be confusing. Here’s a quick guide to help: At any hose bibb faucet, always begin with the timer (Fig. J). Next, install the backflow valve / anti siphon valve (Fig. K). Then the pressure regulator is installed, followed by the filter (Fig. L). From there, installation is standard: Use either a 1/2-in hose fitting to connect 1/2-in main line tubing or a 1/4-in Faucet Fitting to connect 1/4-in tubing.

 

Even if you have an existing high-volume PVC system in place, it’s easy to convert to low-volume irrigation. There are two basic ways to retrofit your system. Option one allows you to replace a single sprinkler head with a sprinkler converter. With this option, you are swapping one high-volume sprinkler for up to nine micro sprinklers or drippers. In option two, a single high-volume sprinkler head is replaced by a system converter. With this option, you are swapping one sprinkler for an entire drip irrigation system. Here’s how it works.

Option One: Sprinkler Converters: Select the appropriate adapter—options are available from one to four outlets (Fig. A)—and replace your existing high-volume irrigation head with drippers or micro sprinklers (Fig. B).

There are also converters available that offer up to nine outlets (Fig. C). Some come with built-in pressure regulators and also feature shut-off valves for each outlet. Unused outlets can be capped if desired.

Instead of replacing a high-volume sprinkler head, you can add a single drip irrigation outlet. Some adapters work in conjunction with high-volume sprinkler heads. These adapters allow a single 1/4-in line to be run from a PVC riser. These allow you to run a dripper or a micro sprinkler with the high volume sprinkler head (Fig. D).

 

Option Two: System Converters: Select the appropriate adapter. Replace the existing sprinkler head (Fig. E), then connect 1/2-in main line tubing (Fig. F) Now run micro sprinklers through your landscape or garden (Fig. G).

 

For drippers, a pressure regulator and filter are recommended. Retrofitting with these accessories requires a 1/2-in PVC to 3/4-in hose adapter. Replace the existing sprinkler head (This may require a PVC threaded coupler)(Fig. H). Next, connect the pressure regulator and filter (Fig. I). Now connect a 1/2-in hose fitting and run 1/2-in tubing and drippers through your landscape or garden (Fig. J).

 

 

Design a drip irrigation system from the ground up, or get started with a drip irrigation kit. No matter how you start, there are a number of products with which to familiarize yourself. The following list is not exhaustive, but it does offer enough information to get you well on your way to designing and building the perfect system. When purchasing drip system components, buy from a single manufacturer to ensure compatibility. In some instances below we have tried to include manufacturer-specific titles for similar or like products.

Kits - Some kits are designed for specific applications, like vegetable gardens or patio and potted plants. Other kits can be used more generally, covering everything from trees and shrubs to flower beds and landscape plants. System kits include all the necessary parts to install a complete drip irrigation system. Retrofit or PVC Conversion kits contain all the necessary parts to convert a high-volume PVC sprinkler head to low-volume drip irrigation. There are also replacement part kits available which contain a number of useful accessories to help keep your system running flawlessly. Often kits allow for later expansion, meaning you can get started now and build as you go.

Timers - Timers allow for a more hands-off approach to your watering routine. Timers can help prevent over watering and minimize wasted water. Digital timers turn the water on and off at preset times, while mechanical timers (egg timers) must be started but will shut off automatically. In either case, the timed watering function can also be bypassed. Some timers can connect to home automation systems for control from a computer or smart device. Certain smart devices can even regulate watering schedules based on weather activity and provide reports on water usage, making them ideal smart home solutions.

Backflow Prevention Valves / Anti-Siphon Fittings - These valves and fittings prevent the irrigation system's water from re-entering your household water supply and contaminating your drinking water when the system is turned off. They are a requirement in most areas.

Pressure Regulators - Pressure regulators help maintain consistent pressure as water exits your outdoor hose bibb faucet. Many drip and micro sprinkler irrigation systems require a lower operating pressure to prevent blowouts. Pressure regulators will reduce water pressure at a specific hose bibb faucet, making the water output compatible with the drip irrigation system. Without these devices the typical home water supply has too much pressure.

Filters - Filters prevent debris from entering your irrigation system. Unfiltered debris can clog tubing, drippers, micro sprinklers and other emitters. Filters are available with different mesh screen sizes. Most filters have removable screens for easy cleaning. Some pressure regulators even have built-in filters.

Hose Fittings - Hose fittings and adapters have 3/4-in female hose threads. They can be used to connect 1/2-in poly or 1/4-in tubing directly to an outdoor hose bibb faucet or to any other fitting or adapter with 3/4-in male hose threads.

1/2-in Tubing (includes: 1/2-in Poly / 1/2-in Distribution Tubing) - This tubing is typically used as a main water supply line. 1/2-in tubing is available in various lengths and can usually be buried under mulch or left exposed. Inner and outer diameters can vary depending on manufacturer (e.g. Mister Landscaper® 1/2-in poly is larger than Raindrip® 1/2-in poly), so be sure of system compatibility before purchasing.

1/2-in Fittings (for: 1/2-in Poly / 1/2-in Distribution Tubing) - Use a 1/2-in elbow fitting to create tight 90º corners, a 1/2-in tee fitting to send tubing in two opposing directions, or a 1/2-in coupler to extend a length of tubing or to repair damage. Some manufacturers offer reusable fittings, while others offer compression-style fittings. These fittings allow you to customize your system to meet your exact watering needs.

1/4-in Tubing (includes: 1/4-in Vinyl Tubing / 1/4-in Feeder Line / 1/4-in Distribution Tubing) - This tubing is typically used to take water from the main line to a dripper, micro sprinkler, or some other emitter. This tubing is available in various lengths and colors, allowing for further customization of your drip system.

1/4-in Fittings (for: 1/4-in Vinyl Tubing / 1/4-in Feeder Line / 1/4-in Distribution Tubing) - Use a 1/4-in elbow fitting to create tight 90º corners, a 1/4-in tee fitting to send tubing in two opposing directions, or a 1/4-in coupler to extend a length of tubing or to repair damage. These fittings can be removed and reused and help you to create your ideal drip irrigation system.

Flow Controllers - Flow controllers limit the amount of water used by an individual micro sprinkler and are available through some manufacturers.

On/Off Valves (for: 1/2-in Tubing / 1/4-in Tubing) - On/Off valves can be installed so that individual lines or zones can be turned off independent of the rest of the system.

Stakes (includes: Micro Sprinkler Stakes / 1/2-in Support Stakes / 1/4-in Support Stakes) - In a drip irrigation system, specially designed stakes are used to hold micro sprinklers, or to hold in place 1/4-in and 1/2-in tubing.

Risers - Risers—also called extensions—elevate micro sprinklers above the tops of plants for broader water application.

Micro Sprinklers (includes: Micro Sprays / Micro Sprayers / Misters) - Micro sprinklers are low-volume sprinkler heads that create various patterns for watering landscapes and gardens.

Micro Stakes (includes: Pot Spray Stake / Bubbler Stake / Adjustable Dripper Stake) - Micro stakes are generally smaller stakes with adjustable heads, which allow water output to be adjusted individually. They are ideal for a wide range of applications but are well suited for use in potted plants.

Drippers (includes: PC Dripper / Adjustable Dripper / Emitters / Bubblers / Drip Tubing) - Drippers emit small quantities of water directly to a plant’s root zone.

Emitters - Often, the word “emitter” becomes a catch-all term for many different types of drip irrigation. Most often it simply refers to some type of low-volume, end-of-line, water distribution product, like a dripper or micro sprinkler.

Tools (includes: Hole Punch / Cutters) - Drip irrigation systems are quick and simple to install with just a couple easy-to-use tools. Connect emitters and 1/4-in tubing using a hole punch to create insertion points in 1/2-in tubing. Use a cutter to make clean cuts in different size tubing. Some manufacturers offer multi-tools, which can do or assist with a number of specific installation jobs.

Plugs (includes: Goof Plug / Hole Plug / End Plug Fitting) - Plugs securely stop up holes in 1/2-in tubing, which may have been punched by mistake or left after removing a dripper, micro sprinkler, or other emitter. Plugs can also be used to end a line of 1/4-in tubing.

Replacement Parts - Sometimes small parts are lost or broken or simply need to be replaced. Spare parts are nice to have on hand. Some manufacturers offer replacement part kits.

Drip irrigation systems are simple and easy to install and maintain. Here are a few tips and considerations to make the most of your drip irrigation system and to keep your system up and running for years to come.

Manufacturer Guidelines: As with any home improvement project, be sure to follow all manufacturer-specific instructions for installation and use. There are often system restrictions, such as maximum recommended water pressure and maximum number of drippers or micro sprinklers on a line. Other considerations may be the spacing of emitters and/or the combining of drippers and micro sprinklers on the same line. To get the most out of any system, it’s important to know and follow all manufacturer guidelines.

Flushing the System: A stopped line or plugged emitter can shut down a drip irrigation system. If it happens and you aren’t aware, landscape and garden plants can be jeopardized. Flush the lines to clear debris during installation and before you begin using the system again in the spring. Clean filters regularly and be aware of the added potential for clogs if your water supply contains a lot of minerals.

Winterizing the System: In cold climates, it’s often recommended that a drip irrigation system be winterized. This can be as simple as allowing the water to drain from the end of a main line. Follow all manufacturer instructions for winterizing to prevent damage in freezing conditions. It is also recommended that battery operated timers be removed and stored indoors for the winter.

System Zones: Drip irrigation systems offer a lot of flexibility, but a single zone may not work for all of your landscape and garden plants. Separate zones let you accommodate plants with different watering needs. Zones can be created by using separate outdoor hose bibb faucets or by incorporating tee fittings and on/off valves.

Cleaning Drippers and Micro Sprinklers: Sometimes, despite your best efforts to keep your system free of dirt and debris, a dripper or micro sprinkler may become clogged. Some manufacturers offer specific tools for cleaning. But often, a small, straightened paper clip is all that’s needed to fix a clogged micro sprinkler. Clogged drippers usually need to be replaced. Follow manufacturer-specific instructions to prevent damage to product.

Repairing the System: Whether it’s because of a shovel, a lawnmower, an animal, or simply a change made to the layout, there may be times when you need to repair or replace part of your drip irrigation system. Some manufacturers offer kits with replacement parts. Regardless of the damage or change, drip irrigation systems are simple and easy to get back up and running. Couplings allow you to replace and/or extend sections of tubing. Smaller parts that are missing or broken can just as easily be removed and replaced. And holes punched by mistake or left after an emitter has been moved can quickly be filled using a goof plug or hole plug.

Soil Type Considerations: Not all soils are created equal. Be aware when designing and building a drip irrigation system that some soil types are better suited for drippers and other soil types for micro sprinklers. Here is a simple jar test to help determine your soil type. Begin by taking a soil sample from the area you wish to irrigate. Take that dirt and fill a glass jar approximately halfway (Fig. A). Now fill the jar the rest of the way with water (Fig. B). Finally, place the lid and shake the jar well (Fig. C).

Now let the jar rest for 24 hours. Once the soil settles, the results can be classified in one of three ways: sand, loam, or clay. Use the chart below (Fig. D) to help determine your soil type and which kind of irrigation might be best for your situation. Note: Contact your local county extension agency for best watering practices in your area.

 

Due to the low pressures and low volumes associated with drip irrigation, there are often system restrictions which limit the length of a line or the number of drippers and/or micro sprinklers that can be used on a single line. Products can vary from one manufacturer to the next. The following maximum runs are only recommendations based on product testing done with a single brand. The data was collected using pressure compensating drippers and micro sprinklers with 10 GPH flow controllers. Always refer to your system’s manufacturer for exact limits.

Increase Maximum Runs with Pressure Compensating Drippers: Pressure compensating drippers regulate the pressure from one dripper to the next. Water output is managed and stays the same at each dripper, regardless of PSI fluctuation or elevation changes. This feature is particularly important when running very long lines with lots of drippers, or when a line of drippers is run uphill away from the water source. In the example below (Fig. A)you can see what happens when non pressure compensating drippers are used. Water delivered at the beginning of the line, nearest the water source, is greater than the what is being delivered at the end of the line.

Increase Maximum Runs with Flow Controllers: Much like pressure compensating drippers, flow controlled micro sprinklers are more consistent and more efficient. To get the maximum number of micro sprinklers on a single line or to run a line uphill, moving away from the water source, it is recommended that you use flow controllers. The example below (Fig. B)shows what can happen without them.

Maximum Runs:To get the most out of any drip irrigation system it’s important to know the limits of that system. The following recommendations will help you get started. Pressure regulators and filters are, also, always highly recommended for optimal performance.

 

Suggested Maximum Runs for Micro Sprinklers on 1/2-in Main Line (.600-in I.D. x .700-in O.D.)

Run up to 300 feet of 1/2-in main line tubing and install up to 50 (at 50 PSI / with 10 GPH Flow Controllers)

Run up to 300 feet of 1/2-in main line tubing and install up to 32 (at 25 PSI / with 10 GPH Flow Controllers)

Suggested Maximum Runs for PC Drippers on 1/2-in Main Line (.600-in I.D. x .700-in O.D.)

Run up to 500 feet of 1/2-in main line tubing and install up to 500 .5-GPH PC Drippers

Run up to 500 feet of 1/2-in main line tubing and install up to 250 1-GPH PC Drippers

Run up to 250 feet of 1/2-in main line tubing and install up to 125 2-GPH PC Drippers

Suggested Maximum Runs for PC Drippers on 1/4-in Main Line

Run up to 100 feet of 1/2-in main line tubing and install up to 20 .5-GPH PC Drippers

Run up to 100 feet of 1/2-in main line tubing and install up to 13 1-GPH PC Drippers

Run up to 100 feet of 1/2-in main line tubing and install up to 5 2-GPH PC Drippers

Suggested Maximum Runs for Adjustable Drippers / Adjustable Dripper Stakes / Bubblers - 1/2-in

Run up to 300 feet of 1/2-in main line tubing and install up to 32 (wide open at 25 PSI)

Run up to 300 feet of 1/2-in main line tubing and install up to 100 (2-GPH flow at 25 PSI)

Suggested Maximum Runs for Adjustable Drippers / Adjustable Dripper Stakes / Bubblers - 1/4-in

Run up to 30 feet of 1/4-in main line tubing and install up to 3 (wide open at 25 PSI)

Run up to 30 feet of 1/4-in main line tubing and install up to 8 (2-GPH flow at 25 PSI)

Suggested Maximum Runs for Pot Stakes on 1/2-in Main Line (.600-in I.D. x .700-in O.D.)

Run up to 300 feet of 1/2-in main line tubing and install up to 65 (wide open at 25 PSI)

Suggested Maximum Runs for Pot Stakes on 1/4-in Main Line

Run up to 30 feet of 1/4-in main line tubing and install up to 8 (wide open at 25 PSI)

Suggested Maximum Runs for 1/4-in In-Line Drip Tubing (.5 GPH Drippers / 12-in Spacing)

Run up to 50 feet of 1/4-in drip tubing (Connect up to 10 individual 50-ft lines of drip tubing from a 400 foot run of 1/2-in main line tubing. Up to 15 feet of 1/4-in feeder line can be used before the 1/4-in drip tubing.)

Suggested Maximum Runs for 1/2-in In-Line Drip Tubing (1 GPH Drippers / 12-in Spacing)

Run up to 240 feet of 1/2-in in-line drip tubing (Connect up to 8 individual 30-ft lines of drip tubing from a run of 1/2-in main line tubing.)

Suggested Maximum Runs for In-Line Drippers on 1/4-in Main Line

Run up to 30 feet of 1/4-in feeder line tubing and insert up to 30 .5-GPH In-Line Drippers (Connect up to 13 individual lines from a 300 foot run of 1/2-in main line tubing.)

Drippers and Micro Sprinklers Together:Sometimes a drip irrigation system will have both drippers and micro sprinklers running off the same line. This method offers the most system design flexibility, but it’s important to learn how a micro sprinkler will affect a line of drippers or how a number of drippers will affect a line of micro sprinklers. Be aware that for this section we are ONLY addressing pressure compensating drippers and micro sprinklers with flow controllers.

 

How Many Drippers Equal One Micro Sprinkler? When incorporating pressure compensating drippers, the maximum number of micro sprinklers will be reduced. The more drippers added, the lower the maximum recommended number of micro sprinklers. As an easy guide, each flow controlled micro sprinkler is equal to 5 2-GPH pressure compensating drippers, 10 1-GPH Pressure Compensating Drippers, or 20 .5-GPH Pressure Compensating Drippers (Fig. C). Use this formula when determining how to effectively mix micro sprinklers and drippers.

Two Basic Approaches: When combining micro sprinklers and drippers, there are two approaches that fit most circumstances. As a general rule, anytime drippers are installed, the use of a 25 PSI pressure regulator is highly recommended. This holds true, even when micro sprinklers are being used. This approach offers enough flexibility for most garden or landscape irrigation needs.

Connect a 1/2-in main line (up to 300 feet) and run it through your landscape or garden, installing flow controlled micro sprinklers and pressure compensating drippers as desired (Fig. D). Up to 32 micro sprinklers can be installed. Refer back to “How Many Drippers Equal One Micro Sprinkler” to calculate how many drippers can be used.

If, instead, you desire to run micro sprinklers at higher pressures (40 to 50 PSI), the system needs to be split using a 1/2-in tee fitting (Fig. E).

Connect a 50 PSI pressure regulator to the hose bibb faucet. Then connect a 25 PSI pressure regulator to one of the lines after the tee fitting. This line can then be used for Drippers, while the remaining 50 PSI line can be used for micro sprinklers.

Alternatively, a “Y” fitting could be installed at the hose bibb faucet. Connect the 50 PSI Pressure Regulator to one side and the 25 PSI Pressure Regulator to the other, splitting the system.