While they may appear complex at first glance, drip systems can be broken down into easy-to-understand components. Every drip watering system is structured around three major aspects:

1. The water source, often called the point-of-connection.
2. The mainline, the main feeder artery that distributes water from the source to the planted area
3. Emitter devices – these apply water at each plant location, including devices like individual emitters, bubblers, micro sprays and dripperline.

   Every drip watering system begins from the water source, or point-of-connection.

The Point-of-Connection refers to the starting point of the system that connects to a water source. A drip system can connect to any of the following new or existing water sources:

1. Outdoor Hose Faucet
2. Valve from Sprinkler System (in-line or anti-siphon type)
3. Converted Sprinkler Head or Sprinkler Riser

The point of connection always incorporates two devices:

• A filter to protect the tiny emitter outlets from contamination from any particles in the water. Even in city water applications a filter is recommended to protect from occasional rust, sediment, or repair debris that may flow into the system.
• A pressure regulator to control the pressure supplied to the system to a specific setting. Typical house water pressures are too high for drip systems and can damage components over time if a regulator is not used.



In this system the point-of-connection is the faucet, which leads down to an anti-syphon device, a filter (hidden from view), and a pressure regulator.

An automated timer or controller, if used, would be associated with the point of connection. Raindrip offers timers for hose faucet systems and that control automatic sprinkler valves.

Anti-siphon devices are required by most local health codes. The device must always be at least 6" higher than the highest watering device on the circuit. Your faucet or sprinkler valve may already be anti-siphon equipped, or you can purchase a separate Raindrip anti-siphon device.

2) Mainline

The term “Mainline” refers to the primary tubing which supplies water to the entire drip system. Mainline, also known as “supply tubing” is typically about ½” in diameter to ensure the proper amounts of water can be delivered to all of the drip emitters. Drip emitters are either attached directly to this polyethylene mainline or are attached with short lengths of ¼” feeder tubing (also called spaghetti, micro or distribution tubing).

Various compression fittings such as tees, elbows, and couplers are used to connect and branch to accommodate other areas of the landscape. Tubing is inserted into the fittings which compress the tubing to create a water-tight seal without need for glue, solvents or lubricants.

Compression fittings with threaded caps are typically used to terminate the ends of the mainline tubing. The caps can be removed to flush the system or to empty the line before winter.

Metal stakes can be used to hold the mainline in place.

Metal stakes can be used to hold the mainline in place in landscaped areas.   Mainline tubing is treated for UV resistance, so it is not necessary to bury it.   Simply cover it with mulch. Clips are available to attach tubing to fences and structures (common for drip watering of container plants on decks).

3) Emitter Devices

This emitter branches from a ¼” tube. A stake in the ground hold the emitter in place.

Emitters are either installed directly onto the mainline or they are branched off from it using ¼” feeder tubing. These devices include individual drip emitters, bubblers, micro-sprays, and lengths of dripper line that supply water at a specified measured flow rate.

Pressure-compensating emitters deliver a consistent flow rate regardless of the incoming water pressure and are highly recommended for landscape applications. They assure emitters at different elevations (e.g. on slopes) perform identically.

Dripperline (also called soaker line) has emitters installed in it during the manufacturing process. These emitters have a specific GPH rate (typically ½ GPH or 1 GPH) and are spaced at regular intervals (usually 6” or 12”).   Dripperline is available in ¼ or ½ tubing.