Valve Manifolds: A Beginner's Guide

A valve manifold is a collection of irrigation valves connected in a central area. These valves control the water flow to multiple irrigation zones and grouping them together makes the sprinkler system easier to manage. A valve manifold simplifies irrigation system installation, management, and maintenance. It primarily acts as a hub by grouping valves that control water flow to different irrigation zones. This centralized connection point makes system troubleshooting and repairs easier by settling valves in one location. If you want to install your irrigation system quickly and easily, a valve manifold may be the best option.

This article explains what valve manifolds are and why you need them.

Why You Need Valve Manifolds

A manifold is a pipe that divides into multiple openings, each opening connecting a single valve that controls one zone. The manifold is usually fed by tubing or pipe directly connected to the water supply. Each valve controls water flow to a specific zone. When a valve is opened, water flows from the manifold to the associated zone and irrigates the designated area.

If your irrigation system has five zones consisting of rotors and spray heads. This means there are five valves in the sprinkler system. Now, you can install valves in two ways. Let's look at both ways.

Method 1 of Installing Valves (Single Valves)

You can install each valve in each zone. Single valves are installed separately to control the water flow through lateral pipes within a particular zone. Each inline valve is connected to the main line, and the lateral pipes are placed downstream. A valve box can be used to protect the buried valve manifold from dirt, harsh weather elements, and damage caused by mowers and other machinery.

Method 2 of Installing Valves (Manifolds)

The other option for placing your valves is to cluster them in a manifold. This keeps all the valves in one convenient location. Great for detection and makes maintenance easier. You can also group them to low traffic locations to reduce the damage risk. This is easier to install using pre-made manifolds.

Using Pre-Built Manifolds

Pre-made manifolds are available in various sizes (for example, 2-4 outlets), depending on the number of valves and zones required. Homeowners can also design and build their own manifolds using PVC pipes, tees, and elbows. PVC pipes are sometimes used to connect multiple manifolds together.

It is recommended that valve manifold assemblies be placed near the zones they serve, such as the front and backyard, and in an easily accessible location for maintenance. Grouped valves should be protected by a valve box rather than being buried directly in the ground. Avoid placing them near stairwells, utilities, or locations that slope downward toward the house. You also avoid placing them in the middle of play or walking areas.

How Irrigation Valves Work

Solenoid valves are the type most commonly used in automatic irrigation systems. They consist of a solenoid (a black cylinder with wires) that is directly connected to the controller and the valve. The controller sends a signal to the solenoid, which either opens or closes the valve. When the valve is connected to the water supply, arrows on both sides indicate the proper flow direction.

For single valves, the inlet side is connected to the main line. The inlet is under constant pressure and only allows water to come through when the controller opens it. On the other hand, the outlet side of the valve is connected to the lateral pipes that supply water to the sprinkler heads. Lateral lines are only under pressure when the water flows through an open valve.

For clustered valves, one side of the valve manifold connects to the main line, while the other side connects to piping that leads to other manifolds or capped off. The inlet side of each valve is connected to the manifold and receives constant pressure from the main line, allowing water to flow when the valve is opened. The outlet valve side attaches to lateral pipes that lead to a certain irrigation zone.

Features and Benefits of Valve Manifolds

Controlled Water Distribution

Manifold groups multiple valves together and provides centralized control over various irrigation zones. Irrigation valves, arranged in a manifold, distribute water to the right spots and prevent overwatering or underwatering.

Simplified Irrigation System Installation

Valve manifolds streamline the system installation by providing a single connecting point for multiple valves.

Easy Maintenance and Repair

Grouping valves in a manifold makes maintenance and repairs more manageable and less time-consuming, saving both time and effort.

Saves Space

Valve manifolds save space in your landscape by reducing the need for individual valve boxes.

Organized Irrigation System

Valve manifolds lead to an organized and efficient irrigation system, making it easier to troubleshoot.

Considerations When Buying Valve Manifolds

Valve Compatibility

The valves and manifold should be compatible to prevent leaks and improper flow.

Size and Capacity

Choose a manifold that can accommodate the number of valves required for your irrigation system. Manifolds come in various sizes depending on the required valves and zones.

Material

Manifolds are made of various materials, such as PVC and push-fit connections, all of which have pros and cons.

PVC is the most popular choice for professionals because it is customizable and long-lasting. Although little skill is required, fittings need glue and primer, which take 24 hours to set before pressurizing.

Pre-made manifolds are an excellent option. Several brands are available on the market, offering benefits such as fast installations and easy repairs. Popular brands are Dura, Action Machine, and Orbit.

Buy High-Quality Valve Manifolds at DripWorks

DripWorks has a large selection of valve manifolds, irrigation valves, and accessories to build, upgrade, or repair your system easily. You may choose from a wide range of configurations to suit your specific requirements. A PVC manifold allows you to group the valves closer together. Also, using a manifold will enable you to align valves and quickly expand your watering systems. Whether you're looking for a valve with two outlets, three outlets, or four outlets, DripWorks has all you need for your irrigation system.