This is a schematic of a basic irrigation system, using all the parts outlined below.
This is a list of parts that I have used in my personal garden to irrigate vegetable and flower beds in zone 5 and 7. Use this list as a suggestion on how to build your own system.
Good to know
The longer the line, the weaker the water pressure. To remediate this by adding an appropriate pressure regulator, consult The Drip Store’s experts.
The more emitters you add, the weaker the water pressure and spray will be. To remediate this by adding an appropriate pressure regulator, consult The Drip Store’s experts.
You will mess up. Get the goof plugs.
Fitting the 1/4 inch tube to the connector is hard. To make it easier to fit 1/4 inch tubing to connectors, heat the tube and use a tong to push in the connector. You can heat the tube by leaving it out in the sun or candling it.
Timer
You can get more advanced timers than this (wifi, app control), but this simple timer gets the job done.
Gilmour 804014-1001 400GTD Outlet Electronic Water Timer, Dual
Adapters
FHT swivel adapter with screen
This is the parts that connects the timer to the 1/2 inch polyethylene tubing (below). The screen inside of the adapter is important; it filters out any small debris that may exist inside the water pipes, preventing the irrigation nozzles from clogging. The screens can be cleaned and replaced annually.
Compression hose end cap
The cap prevents water from flowing out the end of the line, and is essential for optimal water pressure in the hose. This cap is removed in the fall when you winterize the system, preventing it from being damaged by freezing temperatures.
1/2 Inch Drip Irrigation Connector Fitting, Compression Hose End Cap, .700 OD (Fits Poly Tubing .680”, .700” & .704” OD)
Tubing
1/2 in polyethylene tubing
This is the main distribution line. It connects to the timer and is capped at the end. It can be cut to length, dug down or run above ground.
Tubing Size : 1/2” (0.600” ID x 0.700” OD) - Length : 100’
1/4 in blank distribution tubing
From the 1/2 inch poly tube, connect these smaller 1/4 inch distribution lines.
Emitters
1/4 inch stake emitter
These are the adjustable sprayers that connect to the 1/4 inch distribution lines. Stick into the ground or a planter.
1/4 inch plug emitter
Can be plugged into 1/2 inch tube or 1/4 inch tube.
1/2 inch connectors
1/2 inch elbow
Elbows allow you to direct the 1/2 polyethylene tube where you need it to go. Black insert fits all polyethylene drip tubing with .690 OD, .700 OD and .704 OD (OD = Outer Diameter, and this system is using .700 OD).
1/2 inch tee
For three-way connections.
1/4 inch connectors
1/4 inch Barbed Straight Coupling
Used to connect the 1/4 inch line to the 1/2 inch line.
1/4 inch goof plugs
The 2 ends of the irrigation plug are of different sizes; one end is suitable for a 5 mm hole, and the other end is suitable for a 7 mm hole; The multi-purpose plug is suitable for filling into a 1/2 inch drip irrigation pipe; Puncture hole or plug the end of the 1/4 inch tube.
Tools
Professional Gun Punch 3mm
One of the few tools used in drip irrigation installation, a hole punch tool is essential (literally!) to building a system that uses 1/4” tubing or fittings, or where drippers will be inserted into 1/2” or larger tubing.
