How To Cap A Sprinkler Head

Capping a sprinkler head is a simple but effective way to prevent water from escaping and potentially damaging your lawn or landscaping. By following a few simple steps, you can easily cap a sprinkler head and ensure that your irrigation system is functioning properly.

Firstly, gather your materials. You will need a sprinkler head cap, a flathead screwdriver, and a pair of pliers. Next, turn off the water supply to the sprinkler system. This is typically done by turning off the main water valve. Once the water is turned off, use the flathead screwdriver to remove the screw that is holding the sprinkler head in place. Lift the sprinkler head out of the ground and attach the sprinkler head cap to the bottom of the sprinkler head. Use the pliers to tighten the cap securely.

Finally, reinstall the sprinkler head into the ground and turn the water supply back on. Check for leaks around the sprinkler head and tighten the cap further if necessary. Capping a sprinkler head is a simple task that can help you save water and keep your lawn looking its best.

Identifying the Sprinkler Head Type

Identifying the type of sprinkler head you have is the first step in capping it. There are several different types of sprinkler heads, each with its own unique design. The most common types of sprinkler heads include:

In-ground Sprinkler Heads

In-ground sprinkler heads are installed below the ground’s surface and pop up when the water pressure increases. They are typically used for watering lawns and gardens. There are two main types of in-ground sprinkler heads: spray heads and rotor heads.

Spray heads

Spray heads emit a spray of water in a circular pattern. They are ideal for watering small areas, such as flower beds and shrubs.

Rotor heads

Rotor heads rotate to distribute water evenly over a larger area. They are ideal for watering lawns.

Above-ground Sprinkler Heads

Above-ground sprinkler heads are installed above the ground’s surface. They are typically used for watering patios, driveways, and other hard surfaces.

Once you have identified the type of sprinkler head you have, you can follow the instructions in the next section to cap it.

Shutting Off the Water Supply

Before you start capping the sprinkler head, it’s important to turn off the water supply. This will prevent water from spewing out when you remove the sprinkler head. Here are the steps on how to shut off the water supply:

Steps:

Locate the water shutoff valve. The valve is usually located near the sprinkler system’s main control panel or near where the water enters the property.
Turn the valve clockwise to shut off the water supply.
Open a faucet or valve downstream from the shutoff valve to release any remaining pressure in the system. You should hear the water stop flowing.

| Step | Description |
|:—|:—|
| 1 | Locate the water shutoff valve. |
| 2 | Turn the valve clockwise to shut off the water supply. |
| 3 | Open a faucet or valve downstream from the shutoff valve to release any remaining pressure in the system. You should hear the water stop flowing. |

Removing the Sprinkler Head

To remove the sprinkler head, you’ll need to use a pair of pliers to grip the head and pull it straight up. Be careful not to damage the sprinkler head or the pipe it’s connected to.

Once the head is removed, you’ll see a small hole in the pipe. This is where the water comes out of the sprinkler.

To cap the sprinkler head, you’ll need to purchase a cap that fits the size of the hole in the pipe. Caps are typically made of plastic or rubber, and they’re designed to seal the hole and prevent water from leaking out.

To install the cap, simply push it into the hole in the pipe. Make sure that the cap is seated properly and that there are no gaps around the edges.

Installing the Cap

Once you’ve chosen the right cap, follow these steps to install it:

Step	Instructions
1	Clean the threads on the sprinkler head and the inside of the cap.
2	Apply a thin layer of sealant to the threads of the sprinkler head.
3	Screw the cap onto the sprinkler head, making sure to tighten it securely.
4	Test the sprinkler head by turning on the water supply. If there are any leaks, tighten the cap further or apply more sealant.
5	Once the sprinkler head is capped, turn off the water supply and allow the sprinkler system to drain.

Capping the Sprinkler Head

Sprinkler heads are essential components of an irrigation system, distributing water evenly throughout your lawn or garden. However, when a sprinkler head becomes damaged or in need of maintenance, capping it off is crucial to prevent water loss and damage to your system.

Step 1: Turn Off the Water Supply

Locate the main water shut-off valve for your irrigation system and turn it off to prevent water from flowing through the system while you work.

Step 2: Identify the Broken Sprinkler Head

Thoroughly inspect your irrigation system to identify the damaged or malfunctioning sprinkler head. Once located, slightly adjust the surrounding sprinkler heads to avoid overwatering.

Step 3: Dig Around the Sprinkler Head

Use a small shovel or trowel to carefully dig around the sprinkler head, exposing the base and riser. Be cautious not to damage any surrounding pipes or wires.

Step 4: Remove the Sprinkler Head

Using a wrench, carefully loosen and unscrew the sprinkler head from the riser. Grip the riser firmly to prevent it from turning while unscrewing the head.

Step 5: Install the Cap

Apply a small amount of pipe dope or Teflon tape to the threads of the riser where the sprinkler head was attached. Screw on the cap tightly using a wrench, ensuring a secure seal.

Cap Type	Description
Vacuum Breaker Cap	Prevents water from siphoning back into the system
Frost-Proof Cap	Protects the riser from freezing
Standard Cap	Used for temporary closure or when replacing a sprinkler head

Reinstalling the Cap

6. Reinstalling the Cap

Once the head has been adjusted to the desired height and the set screw has been tightened, you can reinstall the cap.

1. Open the small lever on the side of the cap. This will allow you to remove the cap from the head.

2. Check the cap for any debris or damage. If there is any debris, remove it with a brush or rag. If the cap is damaged, you will need to replace it with a new one.

3. Insert the cap onto the head. Make sure that the cap is aligned with the head and that the small lever is closed.

4. Tighten the set screw on the side of the cap to secure it to the head.

5. Turn on the water supply and check for any leaks. If there are any leaks, tighten the set screw until the leaks stop.

6. Adjust the spray pattern of the head by turning the nozzle on the top of the cap.

7. Once you have adjusted the spray pattern, tighten the nozzle to secure it in place.

Tightening the Cap

To tighten the cap, you’ll need an adjustable wrench or pliers. Carefully grip the cap with the wrench or pliers, and turn it clockwise until it’s snug against the sprinkler head.

Avoid overtightening the cap, as this can damage the sprinkler head or the cap itself. Once the cap is tightened, wipe away any excess water or dirt from the sprinkler head and its surroundings.

Pro Tips for Tightening the Cap:

Step	Description
1	First and foremost, ensure that the sprinkler head is clean and free of debris.
2	Firmly grasp the cap using an adjustable wrench or pliers, ensuring a good grip.
3	Carefully apply clockwise pressure while gradually tightening the cap against the sprinkler head.
4	Avoid excessive force to prevent damage to the sprinkler head or the cap.
5	Once adequately tightened, remove the wrench or pliers and check if the cap is secure.
6	Wipe off any remaining water or dirt from the sprinkler head and its vicinity.

Safety Precautions

To prevent injury, observe these safety precautions while capping a sprinkler head:

1. Wear eye protection to avoid debris or water splashing into your eyes.

2. Avoid standing directly over the sprinkler head to prevent water or debris from falling on you.

3. Use a wrench or pliers that fit the sprinkler cap snugly to avoid stripping the cap.

4. Turn off the water supply to the sprinkler system to prevent water from spraying out when you remove the sprinkler head.

5. If the sprinkler head is buried underground, carefully dig around it to expose it before removing the cap.

6. Remove any debris or dirt from around the sprinkler head to prevent it from getting into the water system.

7. Inspect the sprinkler head for any damage or cracks. If the head is damaged, replace it before capping it.

8. Ensure that the sprinkler cap is compatible with the sprinkler head and fits snugly.

9. Hand-tighten the sprinkler cap until it is secure. Do not overtighten, as this could damage the head or cap.

10. Slowly turn on the water supply to the sprinkler system and check for any leaks or damage. If you notice any leaks, tighten the sprinkler cap further or replace it if necessary.

Sprinkler heads can be capped to temporarily prevent water from flowing through them. This is useful when you are working on the sprinkler system or when you want to prevent water from spraying in a certain area.

To cap a sprinkler head, you will need a sprinkler head cap. These caps are available at most hardware stores. Once you have a cap, follow these steps:

Turn off the water supply to the sprinkler system.
Locate the sprinkler head that you want to cap.
Unscrew the sprinkler head from the riser pipe.
Screw the sprinkler head cap onto the riser pipe.
Turn on the water supply to the sprinkler system.