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An irrigation system can be a great time-saving addition to your garden, automatically delivering water to your garden beds or lawn. Once you’ve planned your system, it’s time to install it. Our handy step-by-step guide will walk you through the process.
Safety tip: Always wear the appropriate safety equipment (safety glasses, ear muffs, gloves and mask, for example) and always follow the instructions for the product or equipment.
Attach the timer to a tap that is closest to where you’re installing your irrigation system. A timer will allow you to automatically turn the system on and off at certain times of the day or week, depending on your requirements.
Attach a filter to the timer. The holes in the drip system pipes are tiny so the water needs to be filtered to remove any particles that might cause blockages. Add a connector to the filter so that it can be secured to the timer.
Once you have secured the filter, cut a piece of poly pipe length to sit between the filter and an elbow that will sit on the corner of the garden bed. Attach the pipe to both the elbow and the filter. If the pipe is too stiff to insert, you can make it more malleable by placing it in hot water or in direct sunlight to warm it up.
Make sure the pipe goes right to the end of the elbow so that it forms a tight seal. Secure the pipe to the elbow with a clamp. Slide the clamp onto the correct spot on the elbow, clamp down and clip it into place. If it’s too difficult to clip by hand, use pliers. You can then slide the other end of the pipe onto the filter; remember to push it on tightly.
Now you can lay the poly pipe into position in the garden beds. Make sure it is close to the roots of most plants.
Once you’re happy with the layout, attach the poly pipe to the elbow and secure it with a clamp. When you get to a corner, attach an elbow rather than bending the pipe, as this will prevent kinks forming in the pipe. Secure it in place with a clamp.
If you run out of poly pipe, you can use a barbed joiner to connect two pieces of pipe together. If you want water to flow in two different directions, add a barbed “T” and connect another piece of poly pipe. Once you reach the end of your poly pipe, attach a stopper and a clamp to hold it in place.
Once all of the pipe is in place, secure it using irrigation pins. Place a pin every metre or so along the pipe to ensure there’s no movement over time.
Once the pipe is secured, insert the sprayers and drippers. Use a punch spanner to make a small hole in the poly pipe. If you’re inserting a sprayer, push and twist the riser into the pipe and then attach the sprayer to the top of it. Ensure that the sprayer head is facing the direction you want the spray to go.
If you’re installing a drip system, start by measuring and cutting a length of the 4mm poly pipe long enough to reach the base of the plant it’s watering. Use the punch spanner to create a hole on the side of the large poly pipe, insert the smaller poly pipe into the hole and pop the dripper onto the end of it.
Once the pipe is secured, insert the sprayers and drippers. Use a punch spanner to make a small hole in the poly pipe. If you’re inserting a sprayer, push and twist the riser into the pipe and then attach the sprayer to the top of it. Ensure that the sprayer head is facing the direction you want the spray to go.
Lastly, test your irrigation system to make sure that everything is in working order. In the first few weeks, keep a close eye on your garden to ensure your plants are thriving, thanks to proper irrigation. If you note any signs of thirsty or stressed plants, review your system and amend as needed.
Asbestos, lead-based paints and copper chromium arsenic (CCA) treated timber are health hazards you need to look out for when renovating older homes. These substances can easily be disturbed when renovating and exposure to them can cause a range of life-threatening diseases and conditions including cancer. For information on the dangers of asbestos, lead-based paint and CCA treated timber and tips for dealing with these materials contact your local council's Environmental Health Officer or visit our Health & Safety page.
When following our advice in our D.I.Y. videos, make sure you use all equipment, including PPE, safely by following the manufacturer’s instructions. Check that the equipment is suitable for the task and that PPE fits properly. If you are unsure, hire an expert to do the job or talk to a Bunnings Team Member.
