Yes, there are a number of different drip tubing products available with emitters already installed. The most common types have 12”, 18” or 24” spacing. These are available with emitter flow rates of 0.6 or 0.9 GPH and come in two different lengths 100’ & 500’ rolls.
The most efficient way to connect two unconnected areas on the same zone is to run PVC pipe in between the two areas. Using PVC pipe is more efficient than simply burying the drip tubing because the pressure loss is less in the PVC pipe and it is more durable. You can connect the drip tubing to PVC pipe using special adapters.
An irrigation valve works based on the formula Pressure x Area = Force. If the force is greater on the top of the irrigation valve diaphragm the irrigation valve will close. If the force is greater on the bottom of the irrigation valve diaphragm the irrigation valve will open.
It is difficult to give a precise answer, as every drip system will be treated differently. There are many factors that will affect the run time such as flow rate, soil type, plant type, spacing, and environmental conditions. Below is a basic formula to determine how long you system should run in a hot and dry environment.
(Canopy Diameter x Canopy Diameter) x .01 = Plant Gallonage Requirement
Ex. Tree with a 15′ Canopy (15 x 15) x .01 = 22.5 gallons per day Ex. Shrub with a 3′ Canopy (3 x 3) x .01 = .9 gallons per day
Note: the above equation is for hot and dry environments, the water requirement will decrease during cooler conditions.
Pressure compensating emitters provide a uniform flow throughout a wide range of pressures. This insures that the correct flow of water is being applied by the emitter.
A pre-emergent herbicide is a herbicide that controls annual weeds that reproduce from seed. Pre-emergent herbicides create a chemical layer along the surface of the soil that inhibit annual weed seeds from germinating.
An emitteris a small bar that releases water from the drip system at a regulated flow rate. The most commonly used flow rates are ½ GPH, 1 GPH, and 2 GPH, although there are higher flow rate emitters available for purchase.
The purpose of the solenoid is to open and close the irrigation valve. It does this when a 24VAC electrical current is sent from the irrigation controller and the electrical energy is converted to magnetic energy raising the plunger inside the solenoid opening the irrigation valve. When the 24VAC electrical current is not being sent from the irrigation controller the plunger inside the solenoid is down causing the irrigation valve to be closed.
