How to Change a Sprinkler Pop Up Body.

Changing a Sprinkler Pop-Up: A DIY Guide

Learning Objectives:

• Understand the function of a sprinkler pop-up in an irrigation system.
• Gain the skills to replace a damaged or worn out pop-up body.
• Follow safe and effective practices for sprinkler system maintenance.
• Tips on environmental conditions and troubleshooting.

Introduction:

Sprinkler pop-ups are crucial components of an irrigation system. They are responsible for raising and lowering sprinkler heads to distribute water effectively. Over time, they can wear out or become damaged, impacting your system’s performance. Fortunately, replacing a pop-up body is a manageable DIY task with the right guidance.

Tools and Materials:

• Multi grips/pipe wrench
• Replacement pop-up body (matching size and thread type)
• Flushing nozzle (optional) these are usually part of a new body.
• Wet/dry vacuum (optional)
• Specific sprinkler tools like a small flat blade screwdriver (for sprinkler head adjustments)
• Sprinkler pliers. For pulling up and holding onto the shank to change the heads.

Safety Precautions:

• Turn off the water supply: Locate the shut-off valve for your sprinkler system and turn it off completely to prevent water from spraying while you work. If you have an automatic controller setup turn the system to the “Off” position
• Wear appropriate clothing and gloves: Protect yourself from dirt, debris, and potential scratches by wearing gloves and comfortable clothing. There are some brilliant gloves on the market that are thin and have good grip.

Steps:

1. Remove the old pop-up body:
   • Unscrew the old pop-up body from the sprinkler system. You may need to remove some dirt from around the base. See fig 3.
   • If the body is damaged or leaking, carefully remove it and purchase a replacement of the same size and thread type. If the main outer housing is good, you may be able to unscrew the top of the sprinkler body and replace all the innards without removing the main body or digging a hole.
2. Clean the hole:
   • Flushing nozzle: Attach a flushing nozzle, see fig 1 (this comes with some new sprinklers) to your pop-up and use the system water supply to remove debris.
   • Wet/dry vacuum: Use a wet/dry vacuum to suck out any dirt or debris from the hole.
   • Manual method: Carefully dig around the base of the pop-up, going beyond the connection point to avoid dirt entering the system. See fig 3.
3. Install the new pop-up body:
   • Ensure the new pop-up body matches the size and thread type of the old one and is the appropriate height for your sprinkler system. Refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for height recommendations. Stay away from the shorter pop-ups unless you really need them.
   • Screw the new pop-up body into place, being careful not to over-tighten or cross-thread (misalign the threads). Hand tightening is usually sufficient.
4. Attach and adjust the sprinkler head:
   • Select the correct size and type head as they come in many different configurations.
   • Screw the sprinkler head onto the pop-up body.
   • Adjust the head to ensure it sprays water in the desired direction, avoiding obstacles.
   • Be cautious when replacing the head to avoid dropping the pop-up shank down the hole.
5. Test and finalize:
   • Slowly turn the water supply back on and check for leaks.
   • Run the sprinkler system for a few minutes to ensure the pop-up body functions correctly and the sprinkler head sprays as intended. Turn the system on and off a couple of times to check if the pop-ups are working as intended without sticking.

Good quality pop-ups will last years if not decades. The Toro, Hunter and RainBird brands are a favourite among irrigators. There are many others on the market and most of them should be avoided. Hint, Holman and K-Rain, please make better gear. Check out this post on the most used types of sprinkler pop-ups and how they each work.

Troubleshooting:

• If the old pop-up body is stuck, try using a heat gun to gently heat the join. This makes it easier to remove. Certain tools like pipe wrenches or multi grips may also be used, but gently please. Or even asking someone with more strength may be the answer.
• If you have difficulty screwing in the new pop-up body, after digging down to where the issue is, check the threads for any dirt or damage. In such cases, either replace the damaged part or consult a professional for assistance.

Environmental Considerations:

• Regularly maintaining your sprinkler system helps prevent leaks and ensures efficient water usage. My recommendation is to do this at least once a year just before the watering season starts. Some systems like bore water users may need to do this more often.
• Consider using water efficient sprinkler heads like Hunter’s MP Rotators or RainBird’s R-Vans to conserve water and reduce your environmental impact. These sprinkler heads are great for all soil types.
• Choose the correct size, shape and spray pattern heads. This prevents over or under watering.

Disclaimer:

As always. The information provided in this guide is for educational purposes only. For complex repairs or any situations beyond your comfort level, it is recommended to consult with a qualified professional.