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How to install an irrigation system

A nice garden with a water sprinkler.

Overview

An irrigation system can be a great time-saving addition to your garden, automatically delivering water to your garden beds or lawn. Once you’ve planned your system, it’s time to install it. Our handy step-by-step guide will walk you through the process.

Safety tip: Always wear the appropriate safety equipment (safety glasses, ear muffs, gloves and mask, for example) and always follow the instructions for the product or equipment.

Steps

1Attach the timer to the tap

Attach the timer to a tap that is closest to where you’re installing your irrigation system. A timer will allow you to automatically turn the system on and off at certain times of the day or week, depending on your requirements.

A person attaching the timer to a hose outlet.

2 Secure the filter to the timer

Attach a filter to the timer. The holes in the drip system pipes are tiny so the water needs to be filtered to remove any particles that might cause blockages. Add a connector to the filter so that it can be secured to the timer.

A person holding the filter using one hand.

3Cut the pipe and attach the elbow

Once you have secured the filter, cut a piece of poly pipe length to sit between the filter and an elbow that will sit on the corner of the garden bed. Attach the pipe to both the elbow and the filter. If the pipe is too stiff to insert, you can make it more malleable by placing it in hot water or in direct sunlight to warm it up.
A person holding the elbow with two hands.

4Secure the elbow with a clamp

Make sure the pipe goes right to the end of the elbow so that it forms a tight seal. Secure the pipe to the elbow with a clamp. Slide the clamp onto the correct spot on the elbow, clamp down and clip it into place. If it’s too difficult to clip by hand, use pliers. You can then slide the other end of the pipe onto the filter; remember to push it on tightly.
A person installing a tap timer to the tap.

5Lay the poly pipe

Now you can lay the poly pipe into position in the garden beds. Make sure it is close to the roots of most plants.

Once you’re happy with the layout, attach the poly pipe to the elbow and secure it with a clamp. When you get to a corner, attach an elbow rather than bending the pipe, as this will prevent kinks forming in the pipe. Secure it in place with a clamp.

Green Bunnings hammer
Tip: You may need to ask for a hand to help you hold the poly pipe in position.
A person holding the hose with two hands.

6Attach the barbed joiner

If you run out of poly pipe, you can use a barbed joiner to connect two pieces of pipe together. If you want water to flow in two different directions, add a barbed “T” and connect another piece of poly pipe. Once you reach the end of your poly pipe, attach a stopper and a clamp to hold it in place.
A person connecting two pieces of pipe together using barded joinder.

7Pin down with irrigation pins

Once all of the pipe is in place, secure it using irrigation pins. Place a pin every metre or so along the pipe to ensure there’s no movement over time.
A person attaching irrigation pins to the pipe.

8Insert the sprinklers and drippers

Once the pipe is secured, insert the sprayers and drippers. Use a punch spanner to make a small hole in the poly pipe. If you’re inserting a sprayer, push and twist the riser into the pipe and then attach the sprayer to the top of it. Ensure that the sprayer head is facing the direction you want the spray to go.

If you’re installing a drip system, start by measuring and cutting a length of the 4mm poly pipe long enough to reach the base of the plant it’s watering. Use the punch spanner to create a hole on the side of the large poly pipe, insert the smaller poly pipe into the hole and pop the dripper onto the end of it.

A person making a hole in the pipe using punch spanner.

9Hide the poly pipe

Once the pipe is secured, insert the sprayers and drippers. Use a punch spanner to make a small hole in the poly pipe. If you’re inserting a sprayer, push and twist the riser into the pipe and then attach the sprayer to the top of it. Ensure that the sprayer head is facing the direction you want the spray to go.
A person covering the poly pipe with mulch.

10Test the system

Lastly, test your irrigation system to make sure that everything is in working order. In the first few weeks, keep a close eye on your garden to ensure your plants are thriving, thanks to proper irrigation. If you note any signs of thirsty or stressed plants, review your system and amend as needed.
Watering garden using the installed irrigation system.

11Ready to start on your irrigation system?

Come in-store and speak with one of our friendly Team Members about this project. We have all the tools and materials you need to get started!
Health & Safety

Please make sure you use all equipment appropriately and safely when following the advice in these D.I.Y. videos. You need to be familiar with how to use equipment safely and follow the instructions that came with the equipment. If you are unsure, you may feel it is safest to consult an expert, such as the manufacturer or an expert Bunnings Team Member.

Grave health hazards are linked to asbestos, which may be in homes built up to 1990. Health hazards may result from exposure to lead-based paints in older materials and copper chromium arsenic (CCA) treated timber. For information on the dangers of asbestos, lead-based paint and CCA treated timber and tips for dealing with these materials contact your local council's Environmental Health Officer.