Expert Advice for Home Improvement & DIY Repair
Testing a Drip Irrigation System

Before you start using a new drip system, you need to test it. Begin by connecting the drip control valves to the timer.

To check individual circuits, open the shutoff valve and use the timer to turn on each circuit manually. If none turn on, make sure each valve was installed in the right direction and then inspect the wiring at the controller and valves. If just one circuit fails to come on, check the flow-control setting for that valve.

Once the water is flowing through all the circuits, check for leaks and fix any holes in the tubing by inserting goof plugs into them. Remove areas of tubing with any gashes and replace them with compression coupling. Clean out blocked emitters or sprayers.

Make sure all watering devices are near plants to avoid wasting water, and adjust sprayers and mini-sprinklers if they're throwing in the wrong direction. Once ou are sure water is flowing through all the circuits and there are no leaks, cover the system with mulch.

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