One essential component that can make an irrigation setup more efficient and resilient is swing pipe. This versatile tubing connects sprinklers to lateral pipelines, offering several benefits that streamline installation and enhance system performance. Let’s explore what makes swing pipe a must-have for irrigation needs.

What is Swing Pipe?

Swing pipe is flexible tubing crafted from high-quality polyethylene. The design ensures that exposure to UVA and UVB rays won’t damage it, even if installed above ground. Swing pipe connects pop-up sprinkler heads and rotors to underground pipelines, providing the necessary flexibility to navigate confined or restricted areas, such as those affected by hardscaping or other obstacles in the landscape.

Pro-Trade Swing Pipe is the perfect choice for irrigation systems, with textured material perfect for wet or dry conditions, kink resistance and flexibility. 

Advantages of Swing Pipe

1. Flexibility and Durability

It is recommended to use swing pipe in flow applications of 5 gallons per minute or less, due to significant friction loss at higher flows. Swing pipe offers greater flexibility than connecting to sprinklers with rigid piping. Despite being slightly more expensive, the durability and adaptability of swing pipe make it a worthwhile investment.

2. Ease of Installation

Installing swing pipe simplifies the process of setting up a sprinkler system. Swing assemblies, composed of a length of swing pipe with threaded ends, connect easily to both sprinkler heads and lateral lines. This setup allows for quick adjustments to achieve the correct riser length and finish grade, preventing damage from lawn equipment and ensuring proper coverage on slopes and uneven terrain.

3. Versatility in Applications

Swing pipe is ideal for connecting sprinklers to lateral irrigation lines in areas with limited space or heavy traffic. It is commonly used where lawn maintenance equipment frequently passes over the irrigation system. The flexibility of swing pipe makes it perfect for installing sprinklers near walls or landscaping elements.

Tools and Materials for Installation

To install sprinkler heads using swing pipe, you’ll need:

• Swing pipe
• Shovel
• Pipe cutter
• Swing pipe fittings 
• Thread sealant tape (optional)

Installation Steps

1. Plan and Layout: Before digging, ensure you have a landscape design and layout plan for the sprinkler system. Maintain proper distance between sprinkler heads for optimal coverage.
    
2. Dig Trenches: Start digging according to your plan, leaving space for the swing pipe at sprinkler head locations.
    
3. Place Lateral PVC Pipe: Lay the lateral PVC pipe or lateral poly pipe into the trench, which will connect to the swing pipe.
    
4. Measure and Cut Swing Pipe: Measure the required lengths for each sprinkler head and cut the swing pipe accordingly. Allow approximately 12-18” of swing pipe per sprinkler.
    
5. Warm the Pipe (if needed): In colder climates, warming the pipe slightly can make it easier to install fittings.
    
6. Connect Fittings: Use barbed fittings to connect the swing pipe to both the PVC pipe and the sprinkler head base.
    
7. Install Sprinkler Heads: Securely attach sprinkler heads to the swing pipe and ensure all connections are tight.

The Bottom Line

Swing pipe is a durable and flexible solution for any sprinkler irrigation system. By incorporating swing pipe, you ensure your client’s landscape stays properly watered without the hassle of constant maintenance and repairs. With the right tools and guidance, installing swing pipe can be a straightforward and rewarding project.

At SiteOne, we offer a comprehensive selection of high-quality components for irrigation systems. Explore our range of irrigation supplies and find the perfect fit for your needs at SiteOne.com or in store at one of our branches today!