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Irrigation Installation

IRRIGATION INSTALLATION

Tired of struggling to keep your lawn and garden looking its best?

Let We Love Lawns and Gardens take the hassle out of watering. Our premium irrigation installation services ensure your plants receive the precise amount of water they need, when they need it. With our expert design and installation, you can enjoy a lush, healthy landscape year-round.

Trust us to create a beautiful outdoor oasis that will enhance the value of your property and provide endless enjoyment.

Important basics to get right

Controller

The irrigation controller serves as the central command unit for your automated watering system. It allows precise programming of watering schedules for multiple zones, optimising water usage across your landscape. Modern controllers offer advanced features such as:

Wi-Fi connectivity for remote access and updates
Weather-based adjustments using local meteorological data
Smartphone integration for on-the-go control
Flow sensing capabilities to detect leaks

When selecting a controller, consider the number of stations required, expandability options, and compatibility with smart home systems. Install the controller in a sheltered location with easy access to both power supply and valve wiring. Ensure proper grounding to protect against electrical surges.

Wiring

Proper wiring is essential for a reliable and long-lasting irrigation system. Key considerations include:

Wire type: Use UF (Underground Feeder) rated, direct burial irrigation wire, typically 18-gauge multi-strand
Common wire: Run a single common wire (usually white) to all valves
Station wires: Use individual coloured wires for each valve
Connections: Employ waterproof wire connectors at all splices
Controller connections: Strip 1/2 inch of insulation and secure each wire in its corresponding terminal
Labelling: Clearly mark wires to identify zones
Depth: Bury wires at least 6 inches deep, using conduit for exposed sections

For larger systems or long runs, consider using heavier gauge wire (14 or 12) to minimize voltage drop.

Master Solenoid Valve

A master valve provides an additional layer of protection for your irrigation system. It's installed at the point where the irrigation system connects to the main water supply. Key features include:

Operation: Opens when any zone is activated, closes when all zones finish
Benefits: Keeps system depressurised when not in use, reducing potential leaks
Wiring: Connect to the controller's master valve or pump start terminal (usually labelled "MV" or "P")
Type: Normally closed, low-flow activation recommended

Consider installing a flow sensor in conjunction with the master valve for enhanced leak detection and water management.

Solenoids

Solenoid valves control water flow to individual irrigation zones. They operate using electromagnetic coils activated by the controller. Important aspects include:

Power: Typically operate on 24V AC supplied by the controller
Wiring: Connect one lead to the common wire, the other to its designated station wire
Installation: Mount on valve manifolds, ensuring proper orientation for flow direction
Maintenance: Include manual bleed screws for manual operation and purging

Choose low-power, high-efficiency solenoids to maximize the number of valves that can be operated simultaneously.

Isolation Tap and Check Valve

The isolation tap and check valve are crucial components for system maintenance and water supply protection:

Isolation Tap:

Purpose: Allows shut off of water to the irrigation system for maintenance or winterisation
Location: Install between the main water supply and the backflow prevention device
Type: Full-port ball valve recommended for unrestricted flow

Check Valve:

Purpose: Prevents backflow, protecting water supply from contamination
Location: Place immediately after the isolation tap in the main line
Type: Spring-loaded swing check valve suitable for most installations

Consider installing additional isolation valves for major system sections to facilitate targeted maintenance.

Main Supply Pipe

The main supply pipe distributes water from your source to the valve manifolds. Key considerations include:

Material: Use PVC Schedule 40 or polyethylene pipe rated for your system's pressure
Sizing: Calculate based on maximum flow rate and acceptable pressure loss
Depth: Bury at least 12 inches deep to protect from freezing and damage
Thrust blocks: Install at sharp bends to prevent pipe movement under pressure
Expansion loops: Include to accommodate thermal expansion in long runs

For areas with high water pressure, consider using Schedule 80 PVC for increased durability.

Sprinklers

Sprinklers are the final distribution point for your irrigation system. Selection and placement are critical for efficient watering:

Types: Choose based on area size and shape (rotors for large areas, spray heads for smaller zones, drip for gardens)
Spacing: Aim for head-to-head coverage, ensuring even water distribution
Pressure regulation: Use pressure-regulated heads to maintain consistent performance
Nozzles: Select for appropriate precipitation rate and droplet size
Adjustment: Fine-tune arcs and radii to avoid overspray onto hardscapes or structures