Question
QUESTION: I have a normal 30-year-old residential lawn system I want to upgrade.  I want new valves and such.  1. But can the existing pvc pipes be used again, as long as they cover the yard area okay?  Or should I tear up all existing pipe and replace with new pipe?  And 2. I want to replace much of the lawn with low-water native plants but don't have a design yet.  Can I change out a sprinkler head with a drip head later?  Thank you so much.

ANSWER: Dear Richard, I hope this helps. I would re- use the pvc pipes, and just replace the valves and heads. As far as the drip system goes, normally you can get drip heads to adapt to the existing fittings that the heads are on now. However, you would want to also install a filter and regulator on the valve, later on, if you do convert everything to drip. The regulator will help regulate the pressure at about 30 psi, which is what you need on a drip system so you don't blow out your emmiters. The filter willl keep out any small particles, that could also clog up the emmiters. Good luck and have a great day.

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QUESTION: Thank you for the additional information!  Jim, when I replace my old valves, should I have commercial valves installed?  My current system is residential and 30 years old.  What would be the advantage of commercial valves, if any?  Thanks.

Answer
Hey Richard, I would recommend just staying with a good residential valve. Normally a comercial or residential valve is going to last about the same amount of time. Both can be rebuilt very easily, but normally the comercial parts are going to cost alot more. I would recommend a valve made by Rainbird. The series is called the DVF series, and is a very good valve. Good luck and have a great day.