Drip Irrigation Systems: The basics

Stop the Sprinkler Spillover: Why Drip Irrigation is Your Water-Saving Secret Weapon
Ever walk by a house after the sprinklers are done irrigating and see the sidewalks wet with overspray?
How about seeing a small flower garden where a large area sprinkler head is not only watering its intended target, but everything around it (the fence, the rocks, the neighbor's yard) as well?
These are just two examples of poor water conservation practices.
One way to help curb the use of water and drop it more accurately on the spots that require it is to use drip irrigation.
Drip irrigation is also known as micro-irrigation. It combines a low-volume of water and a low-pressure release of that water so that it is more accurate with its irrigation delivery mechanism.
Drip irrigation systems can easily be camouflaged under bark, mulch, or decorative rock; they can also be on top of the ground.
The Drip Irrigation Advantage: Five Ways to Cut Through the Confusion
Conserve water: Drip irrigation systems manage water like a master chef portions ingredients. A sprinkler can often deliver too much water for the soil to hold and runoff can occur. With precision connections like our Drip-Lock fittings, you get watertight seals that ensure every drop reaches its target—no waste, no worries.
Water precisely: Certain areas won't be over- or under-watered because you can focus the water exactly where it is required for plant growth. The beauty of modern drip systems lies in their flexibility. Whether you're connecting 1/2-inch distribution tubing with Drip-Lock fittings or branching out to individual plants with 1/4-inch lines, precision is the name of the game.
Curb diseases: Fungus (and resulting disease) are less likely to occur in soil that is not constantly saturated with water. Smart watering starts with smart connections—when your fittings create reliable, leak-free joints, you maintain that perfect moisture balance plants crave.
Reduce erosion: A fast release of water will often be disruptive to soil. A slow drip, on the other hand, can help the moisture penetrate the ground in a safe and non-disruptive manner.
Install easily: Here's where the magic happens! Orbit drip irrigation systems are sold in kits and are available online and in many retail outlets. These kits make it easy to install yourself, and you can also use the drip components to customize your irrigation system.
Smooth Out the Wrinkles: New Fitting Technology Makes Installation a Breeze
The biggest game-changer this year? Our new Ergo Barb fittings for 1/4-inch connections. These aren't your grandfather's barb fittings—they feature a revolutionary double barb design with an oversized center that's actually comfortable for human hands.
Why This Matters for Your Fingers:
- The ergonomic design reduces hand fatigue during installation
- Double barbs create superior grip strength on tubing
- The oversized center gives you something substantial to hold onto
- Compatible with our new 67077 Multi-function tool for even easier installation
Gone are the days of struggling with tiny, hard-to-grip fittings that leave your fingers sore. The Ergo Barb design unlocks the secret to comfortable, confident installations that actually feel good in your hands.
Connection Confidence: Drip-Lock Technology
For 1/2-inch connections, our Drip-Lock fittings continue to lead the pack. The stainless steel teeth grip tubing tightly while the special O-ring creates a watertight seal that still allows rotation after insertion. But here's the kicker—the built-in removal collar means you can easily reconfigure your system or pack it away for winter storage.
Real-World Problem Solved: Ever tried to modify a drip system mid-season only to find yourself wrestling with permanently stuck fittings? Drip-Lock fittings get you in the zone with tool-free removal and reuse.
The Bottom Line: Better Fittings = Better Results
Whether you're a weekend warrior tackling your first drip system or a seasoned pro installing commercial landscapes, the right fittings make all the difference. Our Drip-Lock and new Ergo Barb technologies don't just connect your system—they connect you to a more efficient, more comfortable, and more successful irrigation experience.
Ready to stop the spillover and start the savings? Your plants (and your water bill) will thank you.