Your Ultimate Lawn Watering Guide: How to Set Up and Use a Sprinkler System

Having a lush, green lawn in Melbourne’s variable climate isn’t just about having a nice patch of grass—it’s about creating a space where you can relax, entertain, and enjoy the great outdoors. 

The challenge is that maintaining that vibrant green appearance can feel like a challenge, especially when you’re trying to figure out the best way to water it without wasting time, money, or precious water.

That’s where a well-designed sprinkler system comes in.

In Melbourne, where summers can be scorching and water restrictions are often in place, using a sprinkler system wisely is becoming more popular than ever.

More homeowners are switching to automated systems to ensure their lawns stay healthy, even during drier months. But, how do you make sure you’re watering your lawn efficiently without overdoing it or falling foul of local regulations?

In this blog, we’ll dive into everything you need to know about using a sprinkler system to water your lawn in Melbourne. 

From key considerations like the best time to water, and how to adjust your sprinklers for Melbourne’s weather, to essential steps in setting up and maintaining your system.

Let’s get started!

Understanding Your Lawn’s Size and Layout

A small, straightforward yard will have very different watering needs compared to a sprawling garden with trees, flower beds, and hard-to-reach areas.

For smaller or rectangular lawns, simple rotary or fixed spray sprinklers might do the trick, as they can cover these areas without wasting water on driveways or sidewalks. However, for larger properties or those with more complex shapes, a multi-zone sprinkler system might be necessary.

This allows different sections of your lawn to receive the precise amount of water they need, based on factors like sunlight exposure or the presence of garden beds.

Zones and Coverage

When designing your sprinkler system, it’s often recommended to divide your lawn into zones. Each zone should cover areas that have similar watering requirements.

For instance, shaded areas may need less water than sunny spots, and garden beds often require more frequent, gentler watering compared to grass.

Using this zoning method helps ensure efficient water distribution, and it’s especially handy if you’re using an automated system with programmable controls.

Soil Type and Drainage

Sandy soil drains water quickly, meaning you may need to water more often, but for shorter periods. Clay-heavy soil retains water longer but can become compacted, leading to drainage issues or water pooling.

Knowing how your soil absorbs water will help you adjust the sprinkler settings to avoid overwatering or underwatering certain areas.

If your property has uneven ground or slopes, you’ll also need to consider the natural flow of water to prevent water runoff or dry patches.

Choosing the Right Sprinkler Heads

Sprinkler heads come in various types, and selecting the right ones for your property is key to ensuring water is distributed evenly. For example, pop-up spray heads are ideal for small, flat areas, while rotor heads are better suited for large lawns.

Drip irrigation systems, on the other hand, are perfect for garden beds where plants require targeted watering at their roots.

Types of Sprinkler Heads

• Pop-up Spray Heads: Best for small, consistent watering areas. They pop up when in use and retract when off, helping with both aesthetics and safety.
• Rotor Heads: Ideal for larger lawns, these heads rotate to cover large distances, reducing the number of sprinkler heads you need.
• Drip Systems: Great for garden beds and shrubs. Drip systems deliver water directly to the roots, making them highly efficient and reducing the risk of overwatering.

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Tools and Resources for Installation

Setting up a sprinkler system involves more than just picking out a few sprinkler heads. You’ll need some basic tools and possibly some professional guidance if your property has specific challenges. Here are some key tools and resources to consider:

• Measuring Tape or Wheel: Essential for measuring your lawn and determining where to place sprinkler heads.
• Shovel and Trenching Tool: This is used to dig out the trenches where your sprinkler pipes will be placed.
• Pipe Cutter and PVC Pipes: To properly cut and fit your sprinkler system’s piping network.
• Sprinkler Controller/Timer: A controller allows you to automate your system, setting schedules based on your lawn’s watering needs.
• Professional Assistance: While many homeowners can manage the installation themselves, a specialist might be necessary if your property has complex landscaping or if you need to ensure compliance with local regulations.

Sprinkler Heads

Sprinkler heads are the most visible part of your system and are responsible for delivering water to your lawn. Depending on your lawn’s size and layout, you’ll want to choose the right type of sprinkler head to maximise efficiency.

Types of Sprinkler Heads

• Pop-up Spray Heads: Best for small, flat lawns, these heads provide a consistent spray of water over a fixed area.
• Rotor Heads: Ideal for larger lawns or irregular shapes. Rotor heads slowly rotate and can cover a greater distance.
• Drip Irrigation: Drip systems are perfect for flower beds, shrubs, or areas where water needs to be applied directly to the roots. The Netafim range offers some of the best drip systems, and it’s great for water conservation.

Valves and Valve Boxes

Valves are a crucial part of your sprinkler system, as they control the flow of water to different zones in your lawn. These are often hidden underground, housed in valve boxes for protection.

Each valve corresponds to a specific zone, allowing you to water different areas of your lawn at different times.

Types of Valves

• Anti-siphon Valves: These prevent water from flowing back into your home’s water supply, protecting it from contamination.
• In-line Valves: These are commonly used in areas with flat terrain and are installed underground in valve boxes.

Sprinkler Controller (Timer)

A sprinkler controller is the brain of your system, allowing you to schedule and automate the watering times for different zones.

Modern controllers can be quite advanced, offering features like weather monitoring, rain sensors, and smartphone control.

Types of Controllers

• Basic Controllers: Ideal for small lawns or basic setups.
• Smart Controllers: Connect to your Wi-Fi and adjust watering schedules based on real-time weather data, which is particularly useful for Melbourne’s changing climate.

Piping and Fittings

The piping in your sprinkler system is what delivers water from the main supply to your sprinkler heads. It’s essential to choose high-quality pipes and fittings to avoid leaks or burst pipes down the line.

Types of Piping

• PVC Piping: The most commonly used material for underground irrigation. PVC pipes are durable and can withstand the pressure of your system.
• Polyethylene (Poly) Pipes: These flexible pipes are often used in drip systems and are more resistant to cracking.

Fittings and Connectors

• Elbows and T-Joints: Used to direct your piping around obstacles or corners. Always opt for high-quality PVC or poly fittings to prevent leaks.
• Couplers: These connect different lengths of pipe or repair breaks in the line.

Rain Sensors and Soil Moisture Sensors

These devices can dramatically improve the efficiency of your sprinkler system by preventing unnecessary watering.

A rain sensor shuts off your system when it detects rain, while a soil moisture sensor ensures water is only applied when the soil is dry enough to need it.

Step 1: Plan Your System Layout

Before you start digging, you’ll need to map out your sprinkler system to ensure efficient water coverage and avoid unnecessary complications.

Measure and Mark Your Lawn

• Use a tape measure or a measuring wheel to determine the size of your lawn and any garden beds.
• Sketch a rough diagram of your yard, including trees, paths, flower beds, and other obstacles.
• Divide your lawn into watering zones based on areas with similar water needs (e.g., sunny vs. shady areas, grass vs. garden beds).

Choose Sprinkler Head Locations

• Mark where each sprinkler head will go based on your zone map. Ensure heads are spaced properly to avoid overlap or dry spots.
• Place rotary heads in larger open areas and pop-up heads in tighter spaces like garden beds or corners.

Best Practice: Mark sprinkler head locations with small flags or stakes to visualise the system layout before installation.

Step 2: Gather Your Tools and Materials

Once you’ve planned the layout, gather all the tools and materials you’ll need for installation.

Tools You’ll Need

• Measuring tape
• Shovel and trenching tool
• PVC or poly pipe cutter
• Adjustable wrench and screwdrivers
• Wire connectors (for connecting valves to the controller)

Materials Required

• PVC or polyethylene pipes
• Sprinkler heads (rotary, pop-up, or drip as needed)
• Valves and valve boxes
• Pipe fittings (elbows, T-joints, couplers)
• Sprinkler controller (and optional sensors)

Step 3: Dig Trenches for the Piping

Now that you have your layout and materials, it’s time to start digging.

Digging the Trenches

• Using a shovel or trenching tool, dig trenches about 15-20 cm deep for the pipes. The trenches should run along the planned route of your sprinkler system.
• If your lawn has tree roots or large obstacles, use a trenching machine, which you can hire from local equipment rental stores like Kennards Hire.

Avoid Underground Hazards

• Call Before You Dig: Always contact Dial Before You Dig (DBYD), a free service in Australia, to ensure there are no underground utilities like gas or electrical lines where you’re digging.
• If you’re unsure or hit a utility line, stop immediately and call a professional.

Step 4: Install the Pipes and Fittings

With the trenches dug you can now begin installing the pipes.

Laying the Pipes

• Lay out your PVC or poly pipes in the trenches according to your diagram.
• Cut the pipes to length using a pipe cutter and connect them using PVC cement or poly pipe fittings. Ensure tight, leak-proof connections.

Installing Valves and Valve Boxes

• Place the valves at the start of each zone and install them in valve boxes for easy access.
• Connect each valve to the corresponding pipe for that zone, using T-joints or couplers as necessary.

Best Practice: Double-check each connection for leaks before covering the trenches. A leak here can lead to wasted water and higher utility bills.

Step 5: Wire the System to the Controller

Next, you’ll need to connect the valves to your sprinkler controller.

Connecting the Wiring

• Run low-voltage wires from the controller to each valve. Each valve should have two wires—one for the common connection and one for the individual zone.
• Use waterproof wire connectors to secure the connections and protect against moisture damage.

Setting Up the Controller

• Mount your sprinkler controller in a weather-protected area, such as inside your garage or on an exterior wall with a protective cover.
• Program the watering schedules according to the needs of each zone, considering Melbourne’s typical weather patterns and any water restrictions.

Tip: If you’re installing a smart controller, connect it to your home Wi-Fi and download the app to easily monitor and adjust your watering schedule from your phone.

Step 6: Install Sprinkler Heads and Test the System

Once the pipes and valves are in place, it’s time to install the sprinkler heads and make sure everything works as expected.

Attaching Sprinkler Heads

• Attach the sprinkler heads to the risers at the marked locations.
• Adjust the spray patterns to ensure proper coverage and avoid overspray onto paths or driveways.

Testing the System

• Turn on the water supply and manually activate each zone via the controller.
• Watch for leaks, uneven spray patterns, or dry spots, and make adjustments as needed.

Best Practice: Run the system for 10-15 minutes per zone to ensure everything is working smoothly. If you notice low water pressure, check for pipe blockages or improperly installed valves.

Step 7: Backfill Trenches and Final Adjustments

Once you’re satisfied with the system’s performance, it’s time to close up the trenches and make any final tweaks.

Backfilling the Trenches

• Carefully backfill the trenches with the dirt you initially removed, packing it down lightly to avoid air pockets.
• Replace any sod or grass that was removed during the digging process.

Fine-tuning the Sprinklers

• Adjust the height of any sprinkler heads that seem too low or too high.
• Set your controller’s watering schedule, keeping in mind Melbourne’s water restrictions and your lawn’s specific needs.

When to Call a Professional

While many homeowners can successfully install their sprinkler systems, certain scenarios may require professional assistance:

• Complex Landscapes: If your property has slopes, large trees, or other obstacles, a professional may be needed to design an efficient system.
• Electrical Issues: Wiring the controller and valves can be tricky, especially if you’re unfamiliar with electrical work. Call in an expert if you’re uncomfortable with this step.
• Permits and Inspections: If your local council requires an inspection, it’s often best to work with a licensed contractor who understands the legal requirements in Melbourne.

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For a small to medium-sized residential property (300-500 square metres), the total cost for a DIY installation may range from $1,000 to $2,500, while professional installation can push the total closer to $3,500 to $6,000.

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Tips for Budgeting and Cost Saving

Sprinkler systems can be a significant investment, but with careful planning and smart shopping, you can keep costs under control. Here are some tips for budgeting and saving money on your installation:

Do It Yourself (DIY) vs. Hiring a Professional

• DIY Installation: If you’re handy with tools and willing to put in the time, a DIY installation can save you thousands of dollars in labour costs. Just make sure to follow all safety and best practice guidelines.
• Hybrid Approach: If a full DIY project seems overwhelming, consider hiring a professional to handle the more complex aspects like wiring the controller or installing valves. You can take care of the trenching, pipe installation, and sprinkler head setup yourself.

Reduce Water Costs

• Smart Controllers and Sensors: Invest in smart technology to optimise water usage. A system like the Hunter Hydrawise can pay for itself by reducing your water bill through more efficient watering practices.
• Rainwater Harvesting: If you install a rainwater tank, you can significantly reduce your water usage, and in some cases, the water for your sprinklers can come entirely from harvested rainwater.

Tip: If you’re on a tight budget, start with a smaller system that covers the highest-priority areas of your lawn or garden. You can always expand the system later when you have more funds.

Your lawn deserves the best, and with a well-designed sprinkler system, you can enjoy a lush, green landscape all year round.

Whether you’re looking to install a new system, upgrade your current setup, or need help selecting the right components, Malvern Irrigation Supplies is here to guide you every step of the way.

For personalised advice or a detailed quote, reach out to the experts at Malvern Irrigation Supplies now.

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