Slope and Drain Valves in sprinkler system?
I am installing an in-ground sprinkler system in Northern Indiana. I have read that it's a good idea to slope the lines downwards and put drain valves at the lowest point.
Is this really necessary, and if so, what is the best way to slope the trenches so the water drains down? It seems like a difficult thing to do.
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While it sounds like a good idea in theory, I personally would not recommend pitching the pipe to drain, especially if your using coiled supply tube (the tubing has memory and will not lay completely flat). Also most sprinkler systems are trenched and it is difficult to maintain a consistent depth for the trench. I would install the system in the normal fashion and pay a local sprinkler contractor to come and prepare your system for winter. I hope this helps.
regards,
Indy
This is a way to avoid blowing out the system for winter. The drain valves close when pressure is on the line and open when the pressure falls off to drain the line. they work great! To get the slope, just increase the depth of the hole at the end of the line about six inches or so. test it before you backfill to be sure. good luck
Absolutely need a slope. 1/4" per foot. Trencher has a setting for the depth. Drop that 2" every 8 feet. The soil it churns up will be soft, so rake in between. Not difficult.