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Fixing a broken sprinkler line can be tricky. Accessing the broken section and patching in a new piece is awkward, at best. Getting couplings and a new segment of pipe to fit requires bending and flexing pipes, which can be nearly impossible when the sprinkler lines are buried.
A simplified method of repairing a broken sprinkler line is to use a telescopic repair coupling. During installation, the coupling can be shortened slightly to position the piece between the severed ends of the sprinkler line, then lengthened into place to secure the joints. It is an excellent method when you have limited space to make the repair.
What You’ll Need
Equipment / Tools
- Tape measure
- Pipe cutter
- Shovel or pickaxe
Materials
- Telescopic repair coupling
- PVC standard union coupling
- PVC solvent glue
- Marker
- Clean rag
Instructions
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Dig to Expose the Broken Pipe
Using a shovel or pickaxe, dig a small trench to expose the broken line. You’ll be able to find the right spot to dig because the ground will be wet from the water that is leaking out of the damaged pipe. Dig slowly so that you don’t cause any more damage. Sprinkler lines can be buried anywhere from 6-12 inches down.
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Turn Off the Water
Once you’ve exposed the problem area turn, off the water that feeds your sprinkler line. There is usually a valve between your main water line and the line that ties into the sprinkler system for this purpose. If you can’t find the valve, turn off your home’s water main.
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Measure and Mark
Extend the telescopic coupling all the way out and place it next to the broken pipe to use as a measurement gauge for how much pipe you will need to cut.
Make two marks on the PVC sprinkler line using a marker―one at the inside edge of the slip coupling and one at the end of the telescope base.
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Cut Out the Broken Pipe
Using a pipe cutter, cut the sprinkler line at the two marks. These cuts can also be made with a hacksaw or jigsaw, but make sure the ends are straight.
Clean away any burrs at the ends of the cut pipe. Make sure the pipes are completely dry. Moisture in or on the pipes will interfere with the glue bond.
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Glue the Joints
Glue a standard union coupling onto one end of the telescopic coupling, using solvent glue designed for PVC plastic.
Collapse the telescopic coupling so it can be positioned within the repair section. Apply solvent glue to the inside and outside of the joints, then quickly position the telescopic fitting between the ends of the sprinkler line, and expand it so the sprinkler lines slide into the sockets.
Hold it for a few seconds so it does not slip out of place as the glue hardens.
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Check the Seal and Back-Fill the Soil
Let the glue dry for the required time indicated on the packaging before testing the sprinkler lines.
Turn on the water and inspect the repair area carefully for leaks. Should you see leaks, the fitting will need to be cut away and a new patch installed.
Once you’ve tested the seal, you can back-fill soil into the hole and run your sprinkler system as usual.
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