Broken Sprinkler System Pipe? Here's How To Fix It
Posted on: 29 May 2017
If one of your sprinkler system's underground pipes has broken and is leaking water, then you need to repair it. Since most sprinkler systems use PVC pipe, this type of repair is simple and you can fix it yourself even if you do not have any plumbing experience, using this procedure:
Step 1: Turn Off the Water Main's Shut-Off Valve
Before you start repairing your sprinkler pipe, first you need to shut off the water using the water main's valve. This will prevent your pipe from leaking water while you are trying to repair it.
Step 2: Dig Out the Area Around the Broken Pipe
Carefully remove the grass above the leaking pipe using a shovel so it can be replanted when you are finished.
Dig out the pipe so that you have easy access to make your repair. You need at least a few inches on each side of the pipe and below it.
Step 3: Cut Out the Damaged Portion of PVC Pipe
Using a hacksaw or a PVC cutting tool, cut out the damaged section of pipe. Make sure you cut the pipe back far enough that there are no cracks or other damage.
Step 4: Prepare a Patching Piece of Pipe
Using a spare section of PVC pipe, cut a piece that is the right length to make the repair. Since you will need to attach the new section of pipe using couplers, make sure you leave enough room for them on each end.
Step 5: Sand and Prime Each Piece
Before you can glue the new section of pipe into place, first you need to sand:
- both ends of the old pipe
- both ends of the new pipe
- all four internal surfaces on the couplers
Once you have sanded each enough to rough them up, then you need to wipe them down with a damp cloth to remove any dust. Once cleaned, paint each piece with PVC primer and allow it to dry.
Step 6: Repair the Broken Pipe
Place PVC glue on each pipe end and inside of the couplers and patch the underground pipe. Hold the patch in place for a moment so it will cure correctly.
Step 7: Test the Repaired Pipe for Leaks
Let the PVC glue dry for a few minutes and then turn your water main back on and check the pipe for leaks. If you discover a leak then you need to cut the patched pipe section out and start again.
Step 8: Re-Bury the Sprinkler Pipe
Finally, once you are certain that the repaired pipe will not leak water, then you need to re-bury it with soil. Using the soil you removed, refill the hole and then place the lawn back into place.
For more tips on fixing your sprinkler system, contact a company like Arbor Landscape and Sprinklers!
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