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Underground sprinkler pipes are an essential part of various systems, such as building fire protection, agricultural irrigation, and urban gardening systems. Underground sprinkler pipes effectively control fires through automatic water spraying. These pipes also efficiently deliver water to areas that require consistent moisture without causing water wastage.
The rupture of sprinkler pipes can result in water waste, landscape destruction, and the inability to respond to sudden fires. Thus, sprinkler pipe repair should always be done in a timely manner to avoid costly replacements and maintain the effectiveness of the systems.
However, their maintenance is quite tricky as they are underground. This article will explore “What is the role of sprinkler pipes in different systems?” and “How can you do sprinkler pipe repairs.” Keep reading for more information!
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Sprinkler pipes are widely popular in modern irrigation and firefighting systems due to various advantages, including:
Underground sprinkler pipes deliver water directly to the plant roots, providing an efficient and precise irrigation method. Compared with traditional methods, this pipe irrigation method reduces water evaporation and loss. Meanwhile, the system can regulate irrigation based on the water demand of plants and soil conditions.
Sprinkler pipes help to conserve precious water resources. It adopts a closed-water delivery method. Compared to traditional flood or trench irrigation, underground sprinkler pipes may save up to 50% of water resources. This is particularly important in arid regions or environments with scarce water resources, achieving sustainable water resource management.
Once installed, the sprinkler pipes system operates autonomously, which eliminates the need for manual watering and, hence, no recurring labor cost. This is particularly useful in large-scale agricultural operations or extensive urban gardens, where the time and manpower required for traditional watering methods can get quite high.
Whether it's farmland, orchards, golf courses, urban parks, or green belts, underground sprinkler pipes can be flexibly deployed. The system can also adapt to various terrain conditions, such as slopes and flat ground. In addition to irrigating crops, these pipes can also be used for lawns, flowers, shrubs, and other uses.
When selecting the appropriate underground sprinkler pipe, the following key factors must be comprehensively considered:
lMaterial Selection: PVC pipes are lightweight, corrosion-resistant, and low-cost, making them suitable for general irrigation systems. PE pipes offer good flexibility and frost resistance, making them ideal for complex terrains. PPR pipes are resistant to high temperatures and pressure, suitable for high-demand scenarios.
lPipe Diameter and Flow Rate Matching: Calculate the required pipe diameter based on the sprinkler flow rate and water pressure to ensure even water distribution.
lPressure Rating: Choose pipes that can withstand the system's expected working pressure.
lCorrosion Resistance and Durability: Prioritize materials that resist chemical corrosion and UV radiation to extend service life.
lSoil and Environmental Adaptation: Select frost-resistant materials for cold regions and wear-resistant pipes for rocky soils.
While sprinkler pipes come with different benefits, the problem arises when these pipes are broken and need immediate repair. Let's see how to fix broken irrigation pipes.
The first step in the sprinkler pipe repair process is to locate the pipe's broken place. This helps to narrow down the excavation area. It can be done by the following methods:
The first step in locating a broken underground sprinkler pipe is to observe the ground for any abnormal signs.
lOne of the most noticeable indicators is unusual water accumulation or spraying in different areas, such as causing puddles or soggy patches in your lawn.
lDecreased or uneven water pressure from the nozzles signals possible water pressure loss caused by pipe rupture. It calls for a sprinkler pipe repair.
lAnother prominent sign of an underground busted sprinkler pipe is the rapid, uneven growth of some parts of the lawn due to moisture accumulation over time.
Having any of these signs determines the wide scope for sprinkler line repair.
If visual signs are not enough, professional testing equipment is the way to diagnose the problem before you start fixing sprinkler lines.
For example, acoustic testing is a noninvasive method that will pinpoint the location of a break by detecting abnormal noises from a damaged pipe. Additionally, groundwater pressure testing can be used to check for fluctuations in the pressure within the sprinkler system.
Once you have identified a broader location of a pipe break, the next step in the underground sprinkler repair process is to check the exact damaged location. It is usually located between the last functioning nozzle and the first malfunctioning nozzle. Thus, close each nozzle one by one to identify the precise leakage point.
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Repairing pipes requires taking corresponding measures based on their materials and degree of damage. Here is how to repair broken sprinkler pipes:
Underground sprinkler pipes are usually made of PVC, PE, or metal materials. Pipes made of different materials require corresponding fittings. In addition, check the extent and severity of the rupture, as some cases only require partial repair, while in severe cases, the entire pipe needs to be replaced.
Here is how to repair sprinkler line step by step:
lClose the water valve to prevent water from flowing while you are working.
lCarefully dig up the line around the broken section of the sprinkler pipe to expose it for maintenance. If it’s the pipe under the lawn that is damaged, try to ensure the soil integrity of the grassland during excavation so that the pipe can be repaired without affecting the aesthetics and the grassland can continue to grow.
lUse a pipe cutter or hacksaw to cut the damaged section of the pipe. After cutting, clean the ends of the remaining pipe to remove any dirt, debris, or rough edges.
lUsing the appropriate connectors or couplings, join the new section of pipe to the existing system. Generally, there are hot melt connections, electrofusion connections, and connections through glue. Choose the most suitable one according to the actual situation.
lOnce the new section of pipe is securely connected, turn the water valve back on and check for water leakage and whether the nozzle sprays water evenly. After there are no issues, backfill the soil and restore the ground to its original state.
While knowing the right sprinkler pipe repair techniques is important, what's even more important is to have top-quality pipes under the ground. LESSO pipes and fittings are an excellent choice for anyone looking for underground sprinkler pipes.
We offer pipes and fittings made of different materials, such as PVC, PE, CPVC, HDPE, etc. They are corrosion-resistant, pressure-resistant, flexible, and can adapt to various complex terrains. The smooth inner wall reduces water flow resistance and ensures efficient water transmission. In addition, LESSO plastic sprinkler pipes are lightweight, easy to install, and have low maintenance costs. Under proper use, their lifespan can reach up to 50 years.
Whether it's large-scale farmland, urban greening, or fire protection, LESSO sprinkler pipes can provide stable and efficient water supply solutions, helping to achieve efficient utilization and sustainable development of water resources.
Overall, timely sprinkler pipe repair is crucial to avoid costly replacements and maintain efficiency. Knowing how to conduct the sprinkler pipe repair process ensures your system remains functional. For lasting reliability, LESSO pipes and fittings are a recommended choice. Known for their durability and advanced technology, they ensure efficient performance in various applications. Contact us now for a customized solution!