Pipes and fittings for irrigation systems: a buying guide
Choosing the right pipe diameter is critical to avoid pressure losses. A practical guide to PE pipes, compression fittings, saddle clamps, and how to calculate quantities for your system.
PE pipe: why it is the irrigation standard
Polyethylene (PE) is the standard material for buried irrigation pipes: resistant to pressure, UV, roots, and chlorinated water. It does not rust, releases no toxic substances, and lasts decades when correctly installed.
Which diameter to choose
Pipe diameter determines maximum flow without excessive pressure loss. Practical rule: 16 mm for drip lines and secondary runs (up to 4–5 L/min), 20 mm for spray secondary runs (up to 10 L/min), 25 mm for main spray and rotor lines (up to 20 L/min), 32 mm for large systems and main lines with multiple zones.
If in doubt, always go one size up: the cost difference is minimal, while the pressure losses from an undersized pipe can compromise the entire system.
Calculating pipe quantities
Draw your system on paper or use SprinklerMap to generate the material list automatically. Add 15–20% as a margin for bends, cutting waste, and future changes.
Compression fittings vs push-fit
Compression fittings are tightened with a spanner and create a reliable mechanical seal even at high pressures. They are the standard choice for permanent buried systems.
Push-fit connectors click together without tools and can be disconnected and reconnected multiple times. They are ideal for temporary installations or surface drip-irrigation runs. Do not use them for high-pressure buried pipework.
The saddle clamp: the fitting you cannot do without
A saddle clamp is the fitting that lets you branch from the main pipe without cutting it: it wraps around the pipe, pierces the wall with an integrated drill bit, and creates a threaded outlet for the sprinkler fitting.
It is the most-used component in pop-up sprinkler installation — one per head. Choose clamps compatible with your main pipe diameter (typically 25 mm) and sprinkler thread (usually 1/2" or 3/4").
Common mistakes to avoid
Do not mix different diameters on the same run without reduction fittings. Do not use PTFE tape on compression fittings (it is not needed and can impair the seal). Do not bury pipe not rated for underground use.
Recommended products
PE pipe 20 mm, 100 m roll
20 mm polyethylene pipe for spray sprinkler secondary lines. Flexible, root- and UV-resistant. The 100 m roll is the most cost-effective for medium systems.
~€35-60
Amazon →PE pipe 25 mm, 50 m roll
Standard main-line pipe for rotor and spray systems. 25 mm diameter, suitable for main lines up to 20 L/min. 50 m roll, the most widely used format.
~€30-55
Amazon →Compression fittings kit 25 mm assorted
Complete set of PE compression fittings (T, elbow, coupler, end cap) for 25 mm pipe. Tool-free connection, guaranteed seal up to 8 bar.
~€25-55
Amazon →Saddle clamp 25 mm × 1/2"
Fitting to branch a sprinkler from the main pipe without cutting it. One per sprinkler head. Compatible with 25 mm pipe and standard 1/2" thread.
~€5-12
Amazon →PE pipe 20 mm 50 m roll (AliExpress)
Polyethylene pipe 20 mm for secondary lines. Flexible, UV-resistant. 50 m roll at highly competitive price compared to local suppliers.
~€12-28
AliExpress →Assorted 25 mm compression fitting kit (AliExpress)
Set of PE compression fittings: T, elbows, couplings, caps for 25 mm pipe. Tool-free connection, rated to 6 bar. Generous quantity at low cost.
~€8-22
AliExpress →SprinklerMap Team — Irrigation technical guides
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