How to Repair Breaks in Drip-Zone Tubes

Drip irrigation is an alternative to or addition to in-ground irrigation systems. The system is uncomplicated and can be installed and maintained by most home gardeners. It comes with emitters which can be set to deliver slow amounts of water to individual plants or send out small controlled sprays of water. The system is based along a main line to which are added secondary lines and then fittings. Provided the line is only buried under mulch and not under the soil, access and maintenance are simple, and you can replace broken drip-zone tubes in a matter of minutes.

Shovel
Drip tubing
Utility cutters
Punch
Coupling
Emitter
End cap

Instructions

- 1
  Use a shovel to unearth the drip tube in the area where the break has occurred. It is best to just bury it under mulch, but you may have buried it in soil. In the latter case you will need to do a little excavation to access the entire length of tube from the emitter end to the connector at the main line.
- 2
  Turn off the water and remove the end cap on the main line to drain the water from the entire system. This should be done annually anyway to flush the system of debris. Replace the end cap.
- 3
  Cut off the drip tubing where it is broken. Push a pipe coupling into the remaining end. Roll out a section of drip tubing and cut it to size. Push the other end of the coupling into one of the ends of the drip tube.
- 4
  Lay the drip tube along the area where you want irrigation, and use the punch to install emitters where you want them. There are drip or spray emitters, and you can also install risers. It depends on your needs.
- 5
  Push an end cap into the end of the drip line. Make sure you have one that matches the diameter of your line. Turn on the water and test your work. Cover up the line if all works as planned.

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