Irrigation Terminology

Irrigation Terminology

• Pipe 
  Used to move water from one location to another. There are a number of different sizes and types of pipe: Schedule 40, Class 200, Swing Pipe,  & Polybutelene Pipe.  
• PVC Solvent Cement, Primer, & Teflon Tape
  Used to join pipe and fittings together. 
• Water Proof Connectors
  Used to join wire together for a watertight connection.  
• Sprinkler Heads 
  Used to displace the water under pressure. Available in pop-up and fixed models as well as moving and stationary. There are a variety of types to choose from based on the size and conditions of the area to be watered. The two most common types are rotor style heads (moving) and mister, or spray, heads (stationary).  
• Fittings
  Used to: join pipe, change the direction of pipe, & allow attachments  
  to pipe (e.g.: sprinkler heads).  
•  Electric Valves 
  Used in conjunction with the electronic timer 
  to turn on and off water to  various zones.  
• Valve Boxes 
  Used to house electric valves, backflow preventers, and PRVs to enable  
  underground access and location.  
• Timer 
  The "brains" of the system. The user programs start times, duration, etc. into the timer and it operates the electric valves based on the program.  
• Rain Sensor 
  This device monitors rain and suspends the timer's operation of the electric  
  valves if enough rain has fallen.  
  
• Backflow Preventer
  This device protects drinking water from contaminated water in the sprinkler  
  system by only allowing water to flow into the system. Its installation is mandated by the applicable municipal jurisdiction.  
• Pressure Reduction Valve (PRV)
  Used to reduce the water pressure supplying a sprinkler system when it exceeds manufacturer's specifications.