You first need to consider how to design sprinkler system. First, you must consider the flow rate and pressure. Next, choose the location of your sprinklers and select the control valves—these steps ensure that your sprinklers do the job correctly. Finally, enjoy our new sprinkler system!

Calculate flow rate

In determining the correct number of sprinklers to install, it is helpful to know the flow rate in gallons per minute (GPM) and cubic meters per hour (m3/h). The calculation is based on the area inside the spacing between sprinklers and the average precipitation rate in inches per hour and cubic meters per hour. Sprinklers are typically placed in a circle to minimize overlapping.

You can measure this with the k-factor formula, which can be found online. It is essential to understand that the flow rate of a sprinkler head depends on the amount of pressure it is applied at. The higher the pressure, the higher the flow rate. Higher pressure will create a faster stream of water. When calculating the flow rate of your sprinkler system, remember to factor in the pattern’s height.

Calculate pressure

To design a sprinkler system, you should calculate water pressure. Each foot of elevation changes water pressure by 0.433 PSI. Therefore, every foot of elevation change in your sprinkler system should be added or subtracted from the total. Be sure to record these numbers in PSI or GPM. Changing elevation can also affect the pressure the sprinklers need to provide protection. Therefore, it is essential to consider how much water pressure your sprinkler system needs to prevent fires from spreading.

One of the most important factors for design is the available water pressure and flow. Therefore, it is essential to calculate the hydraulic demands of a sprinkler system before beginning the design process. This information will help the designer determine how much water is available to cover a building. Although municipal water supply is the most common source of water, there are other sources you can tap into. In addition, the pressure loss in the pipe and sprinkler system should be considered.

Place sprinklers

Before installing a sprinkler system, you should plan the installation of the pipes and accessories. First, they must be laid in trenches or staked out at the landscape. Once these parts have been applied, they can be attached to the sprinkler heads. Afterward, flush the system and pipes with water. You can rent pipe-pullers for $200 at a local machine rental store.

When planning the spacing between the sprinklers, it is essential to remember that the spray-type head will be placed in a 1/2-circle pattern. Therefore, the closest adjacent charges are approximately 13 feet apart, and the spacing should be at least 14 feet. Sprinklers with a 1/2-circle design should be spaced at a distance of 25 feet, but in some cases, you can space them closer together.

Select-control valves

When choosing the valves, you need to consider the required size and flow of the water necessary. Generally, 3/4-inch pipes can support water flow of up to 8 GPM. However, larger sprinkler systems typically use 1-inch pipes. It would help if you ensured that the valves were of high quality so the water could reach the sprinkler heads and the desired area. The valve size will depend on the size and flow of your water meter. The total GPM of all the sprinklers in the zone cannot exceed the service line size.

Sprinkler control valves can be either manual or remote. Manual valves are operated by hand, while remote valves use a signaling device. In most cases, the valves are electrical solenoids, which operate on 24-volt alternating current (AC). A controller is usually called an irrigation controller. You can also choose from anti-siphon valves or globe valves. Regardless of the type you choose, be sure to check local plumbing regulations to determine if they are required.

Preplan installation

You should preplan installation if you’re planning to attach a sprinkler system to a fixture. The more complicated part is hooking the sprinkler system to the main water line. Plumbers can help you determine which parts of the sprinkler system need to be hooked up to the main water line. You should tap into the main water line if installing a sprinkler system in a cold climate or with insufficient water pressure.

The preplan inspection is an essential part of the sprinkler installation process. It will help you determine the proper locations, fire flow, and sprinkler operation. You’ll need to know underground utilities and mark them with string. You’ll also need to know the maximum occupancy of the sprinkler system, which will help you determine its total capacity. Once you know the sprinkler system’s maximum occupancy, you can start installing it.