Welcome to part 4 of how to assemble a drip irrigation system! In this guide, we’ll share tips on how to assemble and use emitterline effectively in your garden or landscape. Whether you’re watering shrubs, perennials, or vegetable beds, emitterline is a great choice for moderate water coverage and precision irrigation.
What Is Emitterline?
Emitterline is a type of tubing with built-in emitters that release water directly to your plants. Unlike standard poly tubing that requires you to manually add emitters, emitterline already has small holes spaced at regular intervals—every 12 inches on the 1/2-inch line and every 6 inches on the 1/4-inch line.
This makes emitterline ideal for meandering lines in garden beds, shrubs, and landscaping areas, providing efficient water distribution.
Why Use Emitterline?
- Emitterline is easy to install and eliminates the need for separate emitters.
- It offers consistent water distribution, perfect for areas with moderate water needs.
- It reduces water waste by delivering water directly to the plant roots.
- Emitterline is available in two sizes: 1/4-inch and 1/2-inch, making it versatile for different setups.
Before You Begin
Before installing emitterline, ensure you check your water pressure. Emitterline requires a pressure of at least 15 PSI but no more than 60 PSI. Use a pressure regulator to maintain the proper range and avoid damaging your system. Depending on the length of your emitterline, you’ll need 25 to 55 PSI at the faucet to ensure even water distribution along the entire run.
How to Install Emitterline
Connecting Emitterline to Poly Tubing
Follow these steps to connect emitterline to your main poly tubing:
- Extend your poly tubing along the edge of the garden or landscape area.
- Cut the poly tubing where you want to branch off and insert a Power-Loc Tee. Reconnect the cut ends to the tee and leave the third opening for the emitterline.
- Connect the emitterline to the tee and lay it in straight or curved lines as needed.
Installing a Closed Loop
For a closed-loop system, you’ll need two Power-Loc Tees:
- Cut the poly tubing and insert the first tee as described above.
- Add a short length of poly tubing to the side branch of the first tee.
- Install the second tee at the end of the short poly tubing, connecting the two ends of the emitterline to form a loop.
Making Sharp Turns
If your emitterline needs to make a sharp turn, cut the line and reconnect it using an elbow fitting. Ensure the holes in the emitterline face upward for proper water distribution.
Tips for Working with Emitterline
- Lay the emitterline in the sun before installation to make it more pliable and easier to handle.
- Use water to help slide Power-Loc fittings onto the emitterline if needed.
- Install an End Cap or Flushable Valve at the end of the emitterline for easy maintenance and to flush out any clogs.
Using 1/4-Inch Emitterline
The 1/4-inch emitterline follows the same installation principles as the 1/2-inch line but uses smaller fittings punched directly into the side of the poly tubing. Keep in mind that the maximum length per run for 1/4-inch emitterline is 18 feet.
Additional Resources
For more information on designing and assembling your drip irrigation system, check out our Drip Irrigation Supplies collection. You’ll find everything you need to create a water-efficient garden!
Conclusion
By using emitterline in your drip irrigation system, you can achieve efficient, targeted watering for your plants while conserving water. Follow these tips, and your garden will thrive! Grow organic for life!
