DIY ;Step-by-Step Guide to Installing a Rainhose Irrigation System

Rainhose irrigation systems are efficient and cost-effective for most crops, including vegetables, grains, and fodder. However, they are not ideal for tomato families (e.g., tomatoes, peppers, and eggplants) due to their susceptibility to fungal diseases caused by overhead irrigation. Consider drip irrigation for such crops instead.
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Plan Your Irrigation Layout

Assess your farm size and layout.

Identify the location of the water source (tank, dam, river, or borehole).

Determine the number of rainhoses needed based on crop spacing and farm dimensions.

One line of rainhose can feed 4m . 2m on each side.

Gather Required Accessories

Rainhose Pipe: Available in rolls of 50m or 100m (approx. KES 2,500 for a 32mm, 100m roll).

Mainline Pipe: HDPE or PVC pipes to connect the water source to the rainhoses.

Water Pump: Diesel, petrol, or electric pump suitable for your system's pressure needs.

Filters: Prevent debris from clogging the system.

Pressure Regulator: Ensures consistent water pressure.

Gate Valves (Ball Cocks): Control water flow to individual rainhoses.
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Fittings and Connectors: Starter connectors, clamps, and end caps.

End Caps or Plugs: To close the ends of the rainhose.

Stakes or Pegs: Secure the rainhose in place.

Tools: Scissors or knife, measuring tape, Teflon tape, hand drill, and pliers.

Prepare the Land

Clear the field of debris and level it to prevent water pooling.

Mark the rows where the rainhose will be laid.
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Install the Mainline Pipe

Lay the mainline pipe from the water source across the field, aligning it with the rainhose rows.
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Connect the mainline to the water source using a suction pipe (if using a pump).
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Install a filter on the mainline to prevent clogging.

Lay the Rainhose Pipe

Unroll the rainhose along the rows where crops will be planted.
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Ensure the perforated holes face upward.

Cut the rainhose to match the length of each row.

Connect the Rainhose to the Mainline

1. Clamp the Mainline Pipe

Secure a clamp around the mainline pipe at the desired connection point.

Tighten the clamp slightly to hold it in place without deforming the pipe.

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2. Drill a Hole

Use a hand drill to create a hole through the mainline pipe inside the clamp.

Ensure the hole diameter matches the starter connector size.

You may also use a hot metal to make the holes.

3. Attach the Starter Connector

Insert the starter connector into the drilled hole.

Fully tighten the clamp to secure the connector and prevent leaks.

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4. Install the Gate Valve (Ball Cock)

Attach a gate valve to the starter connector to control water flow to each rainhose.

Ensure the valve is compatible with the rainhose and starter connector sizes.

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5. Connect the Rainhose

Attach the rainhose to the outlet of the gate valve.

Secure the connection with a hose clamp to prevent leaks.

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6. Seal with End Caps/Plugs

Close the open end of the rainhose using an end cap to maintain water pressure.

You may also tie the ends with a binding wire.

7. Install Control Valves

Place
inline control valves on the mainline or at each rainhose connection for better water flow regulation.
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8. Test the System

Turn on the water source or pump.

Check for uniform water distribution through the rainhose perforations.

Inspect all connections for leaks and fix them as needed.


9. Adjust and Fine-Tune

Adjust the pressure regulator if the flow is too high or low.

Use gate valves or control valves to isolate and adjust water flow to different rows.

10. Regular Maintenance

Clean the filter regularly to prevent clogging.

Inspect pipes, clamps, and connectors for wear and tear after every use.

By following these steps, you can install a rainhose irrigation system effectively without a technician.

If you encounter challenges, feel free to reach out .

Check out the video I'll upload next..
 
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