How to control automatic irrigation system zones?

[ledgo]

I am putting together an auto irrigation system for my yard. I have worked out the pop up sprinklers I need in relation to water pressure etc. I have divided up the zones. What I am not sure of is: the backyard has 11 turf zones (and will need 3 dripper lines), the front yard has 5 zones and will need 1 dripper lines).

How do I make all these controllers work? Can I have 2 controllers run off 2 taps??

I am confused about how to connect up all the zones and how to do the solenoids, manifoldsc irrigation cable and the connect to the controller.

i have read lots of info, watched videos and I can’t seem to wrap my head around this bit.

thankyou!

[EricL]

Hello @ledgo 

Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community. It's sensational to have you join us, and thanks for sharing your question about your irrigation system.

The best way to set up your system is to set them up as independent systems. The high-pressure sprinkler systems on their own, the drip systems on their own line and anything else that needs to be set up on its own. My best advice is to install pressure reducers on the drip systems and using larger 19mm pipes so that it can accommodate future fittings or change in its layout. This will make the setup much simpler, and you won't need to figure out how to reduce pressure along the irrigation line.

I propose installing a Garden Basics 4 Way Tap Adaptor Outlet or similar. You can double your outlet by adding an extra garden tap in your garden. Control can be achieved by using an electronic controller with solenoids or an integrated set such as the Holman QuikDial 4x Outlet Tap Timer. I propose drawing it on paper first so that you will have a firm idea as to what will be laid out and how it will be controlled. 
 

Here are some discussions that will help:

• How to install a simple irrigation system by @srobinson
   
• Understanding a drip irrigation watering system by @Adam_W
   
• Watering system for my backyard by @DryGarden
   
• Garden irrigation system by @GardenerJohn
   
• Watering system by @Brian
   
• Holman BTX1 watering system review by @TheSaltyreefer
   
• DIY irrigation system by @lushgardener.

If you need further assistance, please let us know.

Eric

[ledgo]

Hi Eric, thanks for your reply

I went into my local store but the irrigation specialist had gone for the day and I live rurally.

those articles were helpful thank you.

I’ve drawn out the zones in relation to pressure, I’m just confused how it all goes together- I.e. how I put the piping to the different zones and connect them to the solenoids/ manifold and controller. Would it be possible for someone to draw an example with a couple of different zones to help explain it?

[EricL]

Hello @ledgo 

Instead of an example, I propose instead having a look at this real-world project discussion - How to plan drip irrigation - Layout & zones by @tanveersattar. It is one of the most comprehensive discussions we've had in regards to setting up an irrigation system. A lot of questions and recommendations were made in this discussion. Plus, diagrams and tap set ups were clearly shown which should put your mind at ease in regards to how it is set up.

I also suggest looking at this discussion - Holman WX8 irrigation project by @Greenway. Another excellent example of how-to setup the Holman WX8 Wi-Fi Irrigation Controller.

In regards to linking the solenoids to the controller have a look at this guide - How to Wire a Solenoid Valve to an Irrigation Controller.

I propose sharing your diagram with the community and any specific question you might have of your set-up.

Eric