The Ultimate Guide to Swapping Out Your Orbit Sprinkler Head


The Ultimate Guide to Swapping Out Your Orbit Sprinkler Head

Changing an Orbit sprinkler head is a simple task that can be completed in a few minutes. A sprinkler head is the part of the sprinkler system that sprays water onto the lawn. Over time, sprinkler heads can become clogged or damaged, which can affect the efficiency of your sprinkler system.

There are two main types of Orbit sprinkler heads: pop-up sprinkler heads and fixed sprinkler heads.

  • Pop-up sprinkler heads retract into the ground when not in use, while fixed sprinkler heads remain above ground.
  • To change a pop-up sprinkler head, simply unscrew the old sprinkler head from the riser pipe and screw on the new sprinkler head.
  • To change a fixed sprinkler head, you will need to dig around the sprinkler head to expose the riser pipe. Once the riser pipe is exposed, you can unscrew the old sprinkler head and screw on the new sprinkler head.

Changing an Orbit sprinkler head is a simple task that can be completed in a few minutes. By following these simple steps, you can keep your sprinkler system running efficiently and keep your lawn looking its best.

1. Tools

When it comes to changing an Orbit sprinkler head, having the right tools is essential. The three tools you will need are a flathead screwdriver, a pair of pliers, and a new Orbit sprinkler head.

  • Flathead screwdriver: The flathead screwdriver is used to remove the screw that holds the old sprinkler head in place.
  • Pliers: The pliers are used to grip the old sprinkler head and pull it straight up to remove it from the riser pipe.
  • New Orbit sprinkler head: The new Orbit sprinkler head is the replacement for the old sprinkler head.

Having the right tools for the job will make changing an Orbit sprinkler head a quick and easy task. By following the steps outlined in the previous section, you can keep your sprinkler system running efficiently and keep your lawn looking its best.

2. Safety

When it comes to changing an Orbit sprinkler head, safety should be your top priority. Water pressure in a sprinkler system can be very high, and if you are not careful, you could end up getting sprayed with a powerful jet of water.

  • Preventing injuries: Turning off the water supply to the sprinkler system before you begin working on it will help to prevent any injuries from occurring.
  • Protecting your property: A powerful jet of water can also damage your property, so it is important to turn off the water supply before you start working on the sprinkler system.
  • Making the job easier: Changing a sprinkler head with the water turned on is much more difficult and time-consuming than changing a sprinkler head with the water turned off.

By following this simple safety precaution, you can help to ensure that your sprinkler system is changed safely and efficiently.

3. Procedure

The procedure for changing an Orbit sprinkler head is a relatively simple one, but it is important to follow the steps carefully to ensure that the new sprinkler head is installed correctly and will function properly.

  • Removing the old sprinkler head: The first step is to remove the old sprinkler head. To do this, use a flathead screwdriver to remove the screw that holds the old sprinkler head in place. Once the screw is removed, you should be able to pull the old sprinkler head straight up to remove it from the riser pipe.
  • Applying sealant to the new sprinkler head: Before installing the new sprinkler head, it is important to apply a small amount of sealant to the threads. This will help to create a watertight seal and prevent leaks.
  • Installing the new sprinkler head: Once the sealant has been applied, you can screw the new sprinkler head onto the riser pipe. Be sure to tighten the screw securely, but do not overtighten it.

Once the new sprinkler head is installed, you can turn the water supply back on and check for leaks. If there are no leaks, then the new sprinkler head is installed correctly and will function properly.

FAQs about Changing Orbit Sprinkler Heads

Changing an Orbit sprinkler head is a relatively simple task, but there are a few common questions that people have. Here are the answers to some of the most frequently asked questions:

Question 1: What tools do I need to change an Orbit sprinkler head?

You will need a flathead screwdriver, a pair of pliers, and a new Orbit sprinkler head.

Question 2: How do I turn off the water supply to my sprinkler system?

The water supply to your sprinkler system is usually controlled by a valve located near the water meter. To turn off the water supply, simply turn the valve clockwise.

Question 3: How do I remove the old sprinkler head?

Use a flathead screwdriver to remove the screw that holds the old sprinkler head in place. Once the screw is removed, you should be able to pull the old sprinkler head straight up to remove it from the riser pipe.

Question 4: How do I install the new sprinkler head?

Before installing the new sprinkler head, apply a small amount of sealant to the threads. This will help to create a watertight seal and prevent leaks. Once the sealant has been applied, you can screw the new sprinkler head onto the riser pipe. Be sure to tighten the screw securely, but do not overtighten it.

Question 5: How do I check for leaks?

Once the new sprinkler head is installed, turn the water supply back on and check for leaks. If there are no leaks, then the new sprinkler head is installed correctly and will function properly.

Question 6: How often should I change my Orbit sprinkler heads?

Orbit sprinkler heads should be changed every 5 to 7 years.

Tips for Changing Orbit Sprinkler Heads

Changing an Orbit sprinkler head is a relatively simple task, but there are a few tips that can make the job easier and ensure that the new sprinkler head is installed correctly.

Tip 1: Turn off the water supply to the sprinkler system.

This is the most important safety precaution you can take. Water pressure in a sprinkler system can be very high, and if you are not careful, you could end up getting sprayed with a powerful jet of water.

Tip 2: Use the correct tools.

You will need a flathead screwdriver, a pair of pliers, and a new Orbit sprinkler head. Make sure that the screwdriver is the correct size for the screw that holds the old sprinkler head in place.

Tip 3: Be careful not to damage the riser pipe.

When you are removing the old sprinkler head, be careful not to damage the riser pipe. The riser pipe is the vertical pipe that connects the sprinkler head to the underground water supply line.

Tip 4: Apply sealant to the threads of the new sprinkler head.

This will help to create a watertight seal and prevent leaks.

Tip 5: Tighten the screw that holds the new sprinkler head in place.

Be sure to tighten the screw securely, but do not overtighten it.

Tip 6: Check for leaks.

Once the new sprinkler head is installed, turn the water supply back on and check for leaks. If there are no leaks, then the new sprinkler head is installed correctly and will function properly.

Summary:

By following these tips, you can change an Orbit sprinkler head quickly and easily. Changing your sprinkler heads regularly will help to keep your sprinkler system running efficiently and keep your lawn looking its best.

Transition to the article’s conclusion:

Changing an Orbit sprinkler head is a simple task that can be completed in a few minutes. By following these tips, you can ensure that the new sprinkler head is installed correctly and will function properly.

Conclusion

Changing an Orbit sprinkler head is a simple task that can be completed in a few minutes. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can ensure that the new sprinkler head is installed correctly and will function properly.

Changing your sprinkler heads regularly will help to keep your sprinkler system running efficiently and keep your lawn looking its best. A well-maintained sprinkler system will help to ensure that your lawn receives the water it needs to stay healthy and green.