Above ground irrigation
How to make a do-it-yourself above-ground irrigation system
Claber has created a guide to help you create a do-it-yourself above-ground irrigation system .
Garden hoses
Aboveground irrigation is the simplest way to water your plants and lawn. By choosing the right products, you can make this solution even more comfortable, functional and efficient.
To transport the water you need a flexible hose, with an internal diameter proportional to the quantity of water and the distance. In medium-sized gardens, the diameter is usually 12 or 14 mm: a larger diameter is fine when the garden is large or the tap pressure is low.
How to determine the diameter of the pipe in inches? Here is a handy conversion table, for internal and external diameter.
Claber pipes are all equipped with an internal anti-algae layer and reinforcing mesh or mesh: the latter is more suitable when using "Aquastop" type fittings, because it prevents the pipe from twisting when the water flow is closed.
Sockets and fittings
To connect the water, you need to install a fitting on the pipe and a socket on the tap. Claber solves every connection problem, thanks to a complete choice of sockets that can be installed in an instant and last a long time, always ensuring a perfect seal. Threaded or smooth taps, lower or higher pressures: there is always an ideal solution for every need. Claber Quick-Click® fittings are tested millions of times and can be equipped with the Aquastop system which interrupts the flow of water when a spray lance, gun or sprinkler is disconnected.
Claber fittings have different diameters, depending on the pipe used: in addition there is a universal version that adapts to pipes of any diameter. There is also a specific fitting for joining two pieces of pipe, very useful in case of punctures. Furthermore, with the appropriate 3-way socket, it is possible to create a multiple above-ground irrigation circuit, using a single tap.
Spears and guns
Irrigation lances get their name from their ability to “throw” water from a distance.
They can vary the jet as needed, from completely closed to concentrated, to open, up to a jet of atomized water. Adjustment can be done by rotating the cap or with a knob on the handle. There are also shower lances, particularly suitable for watering flowerbeds, pots and terrines with a delicate jet; shower nozzles with extension, ideal for effortlessly reaching plants in difficult positions; pistol lances, with ergonomic handle and devices to vary and regulate the water jet.
Static and rotating sprinklers
To water the lawn, a sprinkler can be connected to the hose. The simplest are static sprinklers, i.e. without moving parts, with water coming out of one or more nozzles, with natural or atomized rain jets. They offer excellent performance under normal domestic pressures.
Rotating arm sprinklers, with fixed and adjustable nozzles, allow you to vary the size of the irrigated area and regulate operation depending on the water pressure.
Oscillating sprinklers
The oscillating sprinklers cover rectangular areas, to water with prediction only where needed, the irrigated surface is variable as desired with a selector. This system is the most similar to rain, because the swinging arm launches a fan of water upwards which falls gently, like natural precipitation.
With a simple battery-powered programmer, such as the Logica model which works by turning a single knob, it is possible to automate the operation of the oscillating sprinkler, to always water at the best time and with the right quantity of water: even when we are far away from home.
Swing sprinklers
Swing sprinklers have a hammer that breaks the water jet to distribute it more evenly. They are also equipped with a ring that selects the sectors to irrigate. They can be mounted on a tripod or a spike. They offer the longest range, therefore they are suitable for large, unobstructed green spaces.
Hose reel
To keep the hose efficient and tidy for a long time, after use it should be emptied of any residual water and stored neatly in a dry place, away from sunlight. Claber offers the most complete choice of hose reel trolleys on the market, from the most compact for the terrace or for a small garden, to the largest for green spaces of any size. Claber trolleys come in a simple kit to be assembled without tools, have an unalterable aluminum frame, a resistant and smooth-running drum and wheels designed to facilitate movement. Furthermore, they have a contained water passage, which allows you to use the hose without extracting it completely: just unwind the necessary length, the water passes through the hub of the trolley, enters the coiled hose and exits from the other end.
Rotoroll
Rotoroll Automatic automatically winds up the garden hose after use, keeping the green space always tidy. It is also equipped with a special Soft Block® System device which holds the hose while it is watering, preventing it from accidentally winding if it gets out of hand, for greater functionality and safety. Simply unroll as much hose as needed and apply a light pull to lock it, another light pull unlocks the hose. Alternatively, Rotoroll Manual is equipped with a crank for rewinding. Both models have a modern design and are equipped with a wall support that allows you to rotate the hose reel 180°, for maximum flexibility of use.
Winter protection
During the winter it is a good idea to store the irrigation tools above ground, in an environment protected from frost and bad weather. The hose must be wound neatly and emptied of any residual water.
The various accessories such as lances, pistol lances and above-ground sprinklers must be disconnected from the hose and placed under cover. If you use a programmer, you must remove it from the tap and place it in a closed place, while the battery must be disposed of in the appropriate containers for separate waste collection: with the return of warm weather, use a new alkaline battery.
See all Claber products