Create a Sprinkler Tool Box

Be prepared to tackle those water-wasting sprinkler problems fast by creating your own sprinkler tool box. Here are our top picks for helpful tools and parts to have on hand.

Tools
Shovels A trenching or tree spade shovel opens a deep, narrow hole even in hard, rocky soil. A hand spade is also helpful when only a small amount of soil around a sprinkler head needs to be removed.
Screwdrivers Small Philips and flathead screwdrivers are handy when taking sprinkler heads apart and putting them back together or adjusting the spray.
Pliers Can be used to adjust, tighten and loosen sprinkler heads.
Flags Use flags to mark sprinkler heads or valves that need repair.
Medium-sized vice grip or other “pop-up” tool Can be used to lift the sprinkler nozzle and stem, and then hold the stem in place while repairing, unclogging or adjusting the nozzle.
PVC Pipe Cutter Makes it easy to cut PVC pipe to suit your needs.
Pipe nipple and screw extractor Pipe and nipple extractors allow quick removal of broken nipples or screws without thread damage to the pipe fittings.

Parts
Spare sprinkler bodies, risers, and nozzles Save yourself a trip to the hardware store by keeping some extra sprinkler bodies, risers and nozzles on hand. Be sure they are compatible with the existing brands and models used.
Spare drip emitters and fitting You’ll be glad to have them in your tool box ready to go when you need them.
Short lengths of PVC pipe and drip tubing Ready and waiting for you when you need to replace broken pipe or worn tubing.
Spare fittings and repair devices Ready and waiting for you when you need to replace broken pipe or worn tubing.
PVC primer and cement Important for cementing together and sealing new segments of PVC pipe. Be sure to get glue made for wet or dirty conditions. Tip: Use sand paper to scour the ends of the fittings and pipe so the glue has a stronger hold.