How to Add to a Sprinkler System

Occasionally you need to add to an existing sprinkler system because of additions to the landscape, a change in the current plants or a drier season. This project is fairly easy to accomplish but hand-digging trenches for the new sprinklers can be hard on the back. You can rent a trenching machine that will take hours off the project, especially if you are not used to the work. Once you've dug the trench, the project is simple.

Marking flags, 8 to 12
Tarp
Shovel/pick axe
Trenching machine
Cutting tool for flex hose
Flex tee combo fitting
Clamps
Flex hose
Sprinkler head

Instructions

- 1
  Locate the proper poly pipe in the zone where you will place the addition. Dig around the area where you will add the splice, at least 12 inches down each side to give yourself room to work.
- 2
  Mark where the line will run with flags. Dig the trench along the path of the flags 3 or 4 inches wide and 6 inches deep. To make clean-up a snap, lay plastic bags or a tarp along the edge of the trench path and place the removed dirt on it. There is no need if using a trenching machine.
- 3
  Cut the poly pipe at the location for the tee. Attach a reducing tee combo fitting by pushing the cut ends into the fitting and clamping.
- 4
  Measure the length from the fitting to the placement of the new head. Cut a flex line to the proper length and lay out along the top of the trench ensuring that the ends do not get dirt in them. Attach a flex fitting to the tee by threading it on. Attach one end of the flex line and clamp in place.
- 5
  Attach the flex line to the new sprinkler by pushing the line on the fitting and clamping. Place the sprinkler head in the hole and add dirt to lift head to proper height. Pack dirt around the head to secure it in place. Push the line into the trench and check for leaks. If none are present then fill the trench back in with the dirt. Adjust the head to proper spray area.

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