Project Summary
- Duration: 1 hour and 30 minutes
- Duration: 1 to 2 hours
- Output: Substitute a single sprinkler valve.
- Proficiency Level: Intermediate
- Projected Expense: Between $20 and $40
Replacing a sprinkler valve becomes necessary when there are leaks in the system or when the water flow is inadequate. This task is relatively straightforward to moderately challenging and requires some familiarity with connecting PVC pipes using solvent cement.
Contents
When to Change a Sprinkler Valve
- Valve leaks: Leakage occurring near the valve or at the sprinkler head that is the most distant from the valve.
- Insufficient water supply: Inadequate water reaching the sprinkler nozzles.
- Malfunctioning sprinkler heads: Sprinkler heads that fail to activate or pop-ups that remain retracted.
Prior to Starting
Acquire a precise replacement component for the sprinkler valve. Before departing the store, verify that the PVC adapters are compatible with the valve sockets.
These adapters feature a male threaded connection for attaching to the valve and a female slip-fit end that is intended to be bonded to the PVC irrigation pipe using solvent glue.
Regulations and Licenses
Numerous regional plumbing regulations dictate that the anti-siphon sprinkler valve should be positioned no less than 6 inches above the highest sprinkler head within the same zone when the head is fully extended.
Consult your local building authority to determine the height specifications. If your valve does not reach the necessary height to comply with the regulations, you might need to incorporate couplings and extra piping to elevate the sprinkler valve.
Requirements for Your Task
Devices / Instruments
- Reciprocating saw, PVC pipe slicer, or hand saw.
- Box cutter or abrasive paper
- Channel-lock pliers
Materials
- New irrigation valve
- PVC MIP connectors (two or more, depending on requirements)
- Pipe thread tape
- PVC primer and solvent adhesive
Instructions
Turn Off the Water Supply
To stop the water flow to the irrigation system, turn the valve handle located on the main supply pipe. The valve is considered closed when the handle is positioned at a right angle to the pipe. If the irrigation system lacks a dedicated shutoff valve, you will need to turn off the water at the main shutoff valve of the house or at the water meter.
Unplug the electrical connections.
Once you have reached the sprinkler valve, take note of the locations of the wires connected to the current irrigation valve. It is essential to attach the wires to the new valve in the identical manner. When you are prepared, proceed to detach the wires from the sprinkler valve.
Tip
Prior to disconnecting the wiring, capture multiple images of the setup using a smartphone or digital camera.
Take out the old valve.
Utilize a reciprocating saw, hacksaw, or PVC pipe cutter to trim the PVC irrigation pipes just beneath the existing PVC adapters. Aim to cut as near to the old fittings as you can to maximize the length of the pipe. The new sprinkler valve will be positioned just a bit lower than the previous one. Eliminate any plastic burrs from the cut edges using a utility knife or sandpaper, ensuring that no debris falls into the pipes.
Get the New Valve Ready
Attach the new PVC male (MIP) adapters to the sprinkler valve by applying plumber’s tape to the threaded ends of the adapters and screwing them into the valve socket. Use tongue-and-groove pliers to tighten the adapters carefully to prevent any damage or cracking.
Set up the new valve.
Coat the interior of the female adapter sockets and the exterior of the pipe ends with PVC primer and solvent cement. Position the new valve onto the pipes, pressing down until the pipes are completely inserted into the adapter sockets. Allow the PVC solvent cement to cure for approximately two hours.
Link the electrical connections and conduct a test.
Attach the wires to the new valve following the same arrangement as the previous valve. Gradually reopen the water supply by turning the shutoff valve’s handle until it aligns with the supply pipe. Inspect the valve and all connections for any signs of leakage. Ensure the wires are properly connected by testing the timer with the new valve.
When to Seek Professional Assistance
If you require urgent assistance, contact an irrigation expert to replace the bulk sprinkler valves for the complete system. While swapping out one or two valves may be manageable for a novice DIY enthusiast, replacing all the valves can be a lengthy and labor-intensive task.
What is the typical expense involved in replacing a sprinkler valve?
The price of sprinkler valves ranges from $17 to approximately $100, varying by brand. Typically, most valves fall within the $20 to $40 price bracket. PVC MIP adapters are quite affordable, priced at only $1 or $2 each, and only two are required.
