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Move An Irrigation System Sprinkler Head

Move a sprinkler head to a different spot in the lawn with a length of flex pipe.

by Brett Martin

From The Family Handyman

Click Image to enlarge.
Q  Could you show how to move a sprinkler head? I had to replace the one next to my driveway twice last year because it was run over.

Kevin York, San Jose, CA

A  First decide where you want the sprinkler head. You can move it up to 4 ft. with flex pipe (available at plumbing and irrigation supply stores) without affecting performance. Dig an 8- to 12- in.-deep trench from the current head location to the new location. Turn off the irrigation system at the controller. Unscrew the sprinkler head from the riser (Photo 1) and then unscrew the riser. Insert a flex pipe elbow into the existing combination elbow or riser tee. Tighten the elbow until it’s hand-tight. Then attach a 3/8-in. flex pipe to the flex pipe elbow by sliding it over the nipple (the flex pipe has a smaller diameter than the water line pipe). The connection doesn’t require clamps.

Click Image to enlarge.

Fasten a flex pipe elbow to the other end of the pipe. Place the sprinkler head on the elbow, then turn it until it’s handtight. Hold the sprinkler head in the location you want it. The top of the head should be at ground level. Backfill around the head with your free hand (Photo 2). Once the head is secure, fill in the trench and replace the sod.

From The Family Handyman - June 2006