Upgrade guide

How to convert a sprinkler zone to drip

Convert the whole zone, not one head: keep one head as the drip feed, cap the rest, and add pressure regulation and a filter.

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Steps

  1. Do the whole zone. Rain Bird’s kit requires capping the other heads in the same zone (Rain Bird).
  2. Small beds: one head to 6 emitters. The CNV182EMT kit fits a head or 1/2 in. riser and includes a filter, 30 PSI regulator, manifold, 1 and 2 GPH emitters and 50 ft of 1/4 in. tubing. It doesn’t fit 1802/1803 bodies (Rain Bird).
  3. Bigger beds: 1/2 in. drip line. The 1800RETRO drops into 1804, 1806 or 1812 bodies, regulates to 30 psi, filters with a 200-mesh screen and supports 0.5–6 GPM (Rain Bird).
  4. Pick emitter flow per plant: use the lower-flow (1 GPH) emitters for plants that need less water (Rain Bird).
  5. Keep it clean: a filter and occasional flushing prevent clogs (Rain Bird). Leaks later? See drip repair.
▶ Watch howRain Bird Drip Irrigation | Homeowner’s Guide: Efficient Watering Made EasyOfficial Rain Bird video on YouTube ↗

The 1800RETRO has no verified Amazon listing; see Rain Bird store.

Parts you may need

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When to call a pro

Converting several zones or rerouting pipe? The EPA suggests hiring an irrigation professional certified by a WaterSense labeled program (EPA WaterSense).

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Drip irrigation rebates by state →

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Steps summarized from the linked manufacturer and EPA pages (checked 2026-10-18). If your valve or head brand differs, follow its manual.

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