If you are going to be installing your own sprinkler system in your lawn or garden, it's important to get the parts you need to get the job done right. Nothing is more frustrating than when you are in the middle of a job, running out of parts or missing a critical piece of equipment. By doing your homework and finding out everything you need before beginning your sprinkler system installation, you will end up saving yourself time and even money. This sprinkler system parts list is available to give you the insight you need to design the ultimate system for your lawn needs.
Essential List of Irrigation System Parts
There are a few essential parts that you cannot afford to leave off your sprinkler parts list. These parts are a must-have for every sprinkler system installation:
- PVC Pipe - Almost all systems today are designed with PVC pipe. It might be a good idea to order a little extra just in case you measured wrong. That way, you won't have to go out and purchase more pipe in the middle of your installation. You can always save your extra PVC pipe for repairs later on down the road.
- Fittings - Fittings are pieces of extruded plastic which are designed to allow you to bend, shape, and build your system the way you want it. Elbows, tees, and more will allow you to structure the PVC pipe to reach every corner of your yard.
- Controllers & Timers - Every automatic sprinkler system needs a control unit to program it. The control unit is what tells your sprinklers when to turn on and how long to run. You can program your controller to run the way you want it to.
- Pop-up Sprinklers - Your water will shoot out like a geyser without working sprinkler heads. There are different sprinkler heads that you can buy depending upon how much coverage you want, the direction you want them to go, and the style of spray you want.
- Tubing - You may need a funny pipe to connect sprinkler heads to the PVC pipe and tubing for your drip lines. Your sprinkler heads and drip lines will not work without these essential parts.
- Valves - A valve is what controls the flow of water. It opens and closes and allows the water to enter your irrigation system. Without a valve, you cannot operate.
- Wiring & Electrical - You will need wire to run from your valves to your control center. Your control center can't signal when to open and close your valves without the wire.
- Drains - You put manual and automatic drains at low spots and the end of your sprinkler lines. They are designed to keep water out of the pipes as soon as there is no more pressure in them.
Additional Sprinkler Parts to Consider
With every sprinkler system, there are auxiliary parts that you can add to make your system run flawlessly and make your life easier. Here are some that you might want to consider putting on your list of necessary components.
- Backflow Devices - Backflow devices are designed to keep lousy irrigation water from entering your drinking water. They give you peace of mind while keeping you and your loved ones safe from contamination.
- Remotes - Remotes make it easier to control your system inside your house. They are the perfect option for busy people.
- Weather Sensors - Weather sensors are a great add-on for those who live in a climate with diverse weather elements. Weather sensors will shut off your sprinkler system for conditions like rain, freezing temperatures, high wind speeds, and over-flow conditions.
- Landscape Tools - Depending what types of tools you have at home will determine what types of tools you might need for your installation. Sprinkler head adjustment tools, shovels, picks, rakes, PVC cutters, glue, primer, and a trench shovel are all great tools on hand.
- Sprinkler Head Filters - Keeps rocks, dirt, and debris from getting into the sprinkler heads and clogging them.
- Battery for Sprinkler Control Center - Even if a sprinkler control center runs off electricity, it may need a backup battery for an emergency. Check to see what kind of batteries your control center needs before making your purchase.
- Replacement Parts - Nothing is more frustrating than the inability to water your lawn because you are waiting for a replacement part. If you purchase replacement parts when you make your initial purchase, you will be prepared for any emergency which may come your way.
- Underground Fertilizer - There are certain kinds of fertilizer that you can buy that hook up to your sprinkler system. The fertilizer sprays through your sprinklers to give your lawn that lush green look it needs.
- Instructional Books & DVDs - If you are installing your sprinkler system, it wouldn't be a bad idea to read some books or watch some DVDs. That way, you know exactly what you are doing and the best way to install a flawless sprinkler system.
Find the Sprinkler Parts You Need for Your Install
As the above sprinkler system parts list indicates, there are many options to consider when planning out a lawn sprinkler system. It's important to do your research and identify what parts you really need. Make a list and make sure you have all the products you need on it before you even begin your installation. This will help you get your system installed in an appropriate amount of time for as inexpensive as possible. PlumbersStock offers discount sprinkler parts from Rain Bird, Toro, and more!
Related Resources:
How to Design a Sprinkler System
Planning a Sprinkler System
Setting Up Sprinkler Zones
The Best Pumps for Sprinkler Systems
All About Antisiphon Valves
When Should You Water Your Lawn?