INSTALL PRODUCTS WITH
BUILT-IN CHECK VALVES:
A Gamechanger for
Sustainable Irrigation
INSTALL PRODUCTS WITH BUILT-IN CHECK VALVES:
A Gamechanger for
Sustainable Irrigation
What is Low-Head Drainage?
When the irrigation system is turned off, the water leftover in the lines naturally flows downhill and exerts pressure on the emission device at the lowest point. Eventually, enough pressure will cause the water to force its way out—a phenomenon known as “low-head drainage.” Depending on the property topography and the size and length of the irrigation pipe, this recurring leakage can waste a significant amount of water and wreak havoc on landscaping.
Sustainable Benefits of Installing Irrigation Products with Check Valves
Conserves water
Prevents overwatering at the base of a slope
Eliminates unnecessary water
Minimizes land erosion from surface runoff
Reduces wear on system by minimizing water hammer
Guards against backflow contamination of water supply
Protects against property damage from puddling and pooling
Blocks air from entering the system
Not All Check Valves are Created Equal
Check valve performance will vary greatly depending on the manufacturer. Rain Bird is proud to offer check valves that provide the highest hold-back in the industry. Many Rain Bird products offer built-in check valves capable of holding back anywhere from 8 to 14 feet of water.
The Importance of Hold-Back
A check valve’s “hold-back” capacity is especially important when it comes to hills and slopes. For every 1 foot of elevation change, 0.433 psi is generated. Therefore, the greater the change in elevation, the longer the line will be and the more water it will hold. This puts more pressure on the low point emitter(s) and without adequate check valves significant water waste will occur in the form of low head drainage.
How to Put Check Valves to Work for You
Make the Most of Maintenance
Replacing a rotor or spray? Now is the perfect time to upgrade to a product equipped with Rain Bird’s check-valve technology. Start saving water and increasing sustainability immediately when you make the switch.
Be Proactive with New Irrigation Installs
Consider making check valves a priority for all new installations. You can’t go wrong with water-saving, check-valve technology. Opt for products like the XFS-CV dripline—even when elevation changes are slight. Integrating check valves into your design ensures maximum flexibility, should plans or topography change in the future.
Water-Saving Solutions for Every Project
Drip
Rain Bird patent-pending check valve keeps the line charged, providing 10 feet of hold-back—the highest in the industry.
Professionals:
Sprays
Rain Bird Seal-A-Matic™ Check Valve holds back up to 14 feet of water.
Professionals:
Rotors
All Rain Bird Rotors are available with built-in SAM check valves ranging from 7 to 10 feet of hold-back. Be sure the model you select has a built-in check valve.
Professionals:
Sustainability…Without the Stress
Sustainability requires commitment—not stress. Rain Bird makes it easy to conserve resources and improve water stewardship. Our goal at Rain Bird is to make sustainability simple for our customers. Call 1-800-RAINBIRD to see how we can help you save water and achieve your sustainability goals.