Instructions for EF55AS

This micro sprinkler kit has all the parts needed to start the system connecting to a faucet.  The Drip Store also provides instructions on how to start the system from a PVC pipe or a pipe thread.

Starting the irrigation system from a faucet:

• Optional: If you wish to automate the system, first connect a battery-operated controller to the faucet (suggested model C000 - not included in this kit).

1. Connect the 3/4" FHT x MHT backflow device (model A015) to the controller or, if not using a controller, to the faucet.
2. Connect the 3/4" FHT x MHT pressure regulator (model A013) to the backflow device.
3. Connect the 3/4" FHT swivel adapter with screen (model LF003) to the 3/4" FHT x MHT pressure regulator.

Optional: Starting the irrigation system from a PVC pipe:

1. Glue to a 3/4" PVC pipe a PVC male adapter (model P357) (not included).
2. Use a 3/4" MHT x MPT nipple (model A010) (not included) to connect to the pipe thread making sure to use 3-5 rounds of Teflon tape.
3. If you wish to automate the system, connect a 3/4" battery-operated controller (model C000) (not included) to the nipple.
4. Connect the 3/4" FHT x MHT 25 PSI pressure regulator (model A013) to the nipple or to a controller (not included) using the 3/4" adapter included with the controller.
5. Connect the 3/4" FHT swivel adapter with screen (model LF003) to the 3/4" FHT x MHT pressure regulator.

Steps to connect all other components:

1. Connect the poly tubing to the swivel adapter by wiggling and forcing the drip tubing into the compression side of the adapter and lay out the drip tubing to the garden area. The 1/2" drip tubing is used as the main line to deliver the water to the plants.
2. Use 1/2" coupling .700 O.D. (model LF001) to connect additional 1/2" drip tubing, or for repair.
3. Use the 1/2" tee (model LF005) to split the 1/2" drip hose if needed or for making a loop from the 1/2" drip hose around a tree.

Note:Suggestion for connecting the 1/2" compression drip fittings: To install the 1/2" compression fittings, cut the drip tubing with a hand pruner, being careful to keep dirt from entering the line. Hold the compression fitting in one hand and the drip tubing in the other and force the drip tubing into the fitting by wiggling it from side to side. Make sure that the drip tubing is pushed into the compression fitting for about 1/2 to 5/8 of an inch for a very tight fit. No glue or clamps are required.

4. Turn the water on and flush the line, and then close the end of the 1/2"drip tubing (model T060) using hose end (model A006).
5. Use the 1/4" barb (model SF001) to connect the 1/4" micro tubing to the 1/2" drip tubing. To connect the 1/4" micro tubing to the 1/2" drip tubing punch a hole in the 1/2" drip hose using the punch (model A019) and insert the 1/4" barb, then connect the 1/4" micro tubing to the barb.

Micro sprinklers have small droplets and a low flow application rate. This helps to maintain a low water tension in the soil, preventing plant stress. Use the micro sprinklers to water groundcover, flowerbeds, and areas where drip emitters are not practical, such hillsides, or when low volume, overhead irrigation is desired. Like the drip emitters, the micro sprinklers operate at low pressure, but have a larger range of flow rates and diameters.

6. Install the micro sprinklers (model MSA004) every 8 to 12’ using the full circle, and every 5 to 6’ using any of the inserts.
   1. To install the 360-degree micro sprinkler assembly, first insert the micro sprinkler spike into the ground about 2-4”, then puncha hole in the drip hose and insert the 1/4" barb on the micro tubing into the drip hose.  Make sure the micro sprinkler is about 6-9” above the ground.
   2. For detailed information on how to replace the spinner with a spreader, please open this link: Instruction Manual.
7. Install the micro jet sprayers (model MS006) every 3 to 4’ using the full or part circle.
   1. To install the micro jet sprayer, first punch a hole in the drip hose and insert the 10/32 thread on the micro jet sprayer into the drip hose.
   2. To install a tip, position the tip on the top of the jet sprayer and snap it in.
8. Use the punch (model A019) to punch a hole in the 1/2" drip tubing for the insertion of the micro sprinklers, micro jet sprayers and the 1/4" fittings if needed.
9. The 1/2" stake (model S006) is used to secure the 1/2" drip hose to the ground. Place every 4' to 6' apart or as needed.
10. Use goof plugs (if needed) (model SF007) to repair small holes in the 1/2" drip tubing. The goof plug may also be used to close the end of the 1/4" micro tubing.

How much time to water:  Turn the water on for 45 minutes to an hour every two days, depending on your location and the soil type.  After a week or two check the soil and the health of the plants, and adjust the irrigation time as needed.  If you have an irrigation controller and you need to add more time, adjust the time on the controller or program the controller with additional start-times.