How to Fix a Leak in an Underground Sprinkler PVC Tube
- 1). Identify potential leaks in your sprinkler system by looking for wet areas in the lawn.
- 2). Cut the sod with a shovel, roll it up and set it aside so you can patch the area after the pipe repair.
- 3). Dig down to the underground pipe and clean around it at least 4 inches in every direction to give yourself room for the repair.
- 4). Clean dirt off the PVC pipe with rags. The pipe must be completely clean.
- 5). Measure 4 inches on each side of the crack and mark the spots with the marker.
- 6). Grasp the pipe firmly in one hand and cut at the marks using a PVC pipe cutter or fine-tooth saw. Allow excess water to drain out of the pipe.
- 7). Measure the length of the broken pipe and cut a length of replacement pipe about 1/2 inch shorter to allow for the hubs on the connectors. Rub the inner and outer edges of the replacement pipe with 80-grit sandpaper to remove burrs.
- 8). Apply an even layer of PVC primer along the insides of both the slip joint connectors and the ends of the replacement pipe. Apply PVC glue over the end of a pipe and inside a fitting.
- 9). Push the connector over the glued end of the pipe, twist it lightly and hold it for 15 seconds. Repeat the process on the other side.
- 10
Glue an end of the replacement pipe to an end of the intact pipe and hold the joint for 15 seconds. Bend the replacement pipe in order to get the other connector in place. Pack dirt into the trench and patch the soil surface with the sod you rolled.
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