How to Convert a Sprinkler to a Drip

Shut off the main power supply to the sprinkler zone you will be working on. This usually requires temporarily resetting the sprinkler control for an individual zone. If you are not sure of the correct zone to shut off, unplug the power supply to the sprinkler control panel. There is usually an electrical outlet plug near the sprinkler control panel. In some cases, you may need to follow the electric cord for some distance in order to find the outlet. If you have a digital sprinkler panel, just turn off the main power switch.

Switch the sprinkler head from spray to drip. Using a sprinkler repair tool, lift to center pop-up head from the sprinkler body you are converting. Grasp the pop-up section with one hand, and remove then unscrew the spray head from the top of the pop-up. Turn the spray head counterclockwise to remove the sprinkler tip. Screw on the new drip system converter to the top of the pop-up. Screw the drip converter on clockwise by hand only. Do not use pliers or any other tools; the pop-up is plastic and easily broken. Slowly lower the pop-up section of the sprinkler down into the pop-up body.

Install the drip lines to each of the ports you need to use on top of the drip converter. You may need to cut each port open with a pair of garden scissors before installing your drip lines. This depends on the brand of your converter. Run you drip lines to each section or individual plant you need to water. Install the drip or bubbler ends you need according the manufacturer's instructions. Stake the drip lines down with drip line stakes. Turn the power back on to the sprinkler zone or main control panel. Turn the zone on you have converted to test your drip irrigation installation. Adjust the drip heads as required.