If you’re dealing with an aging sprinkler system, a leak, or simply want to improve your yard’s irrigation setup, upgrading your sprinkler control valves is a great investment. Not only does it prevent costly water waste, but it also sets your yard up for long-term efficiency and even improves the aesthetics.

I recently tackled this project, replacing my old system with Rain Bird DASASVF075 Professional Grade Anti-Siphon Valves with Flow Control (3/4" Threaded Female x Female). The whole project, including all valves, pipes, and materials, cost about $450 and took roughly 1.5 days. This upgrade was a bit more complex than your standard DIY job, but with careful planning, the results were well worth it. Here’s how I did it.

Step 1: Digging Things Out and Cleaning Up

Before you start replacing anything, clear out the area around your old valves. Use a shovel to carefully expose the pipes and valve connections. Take your time here—damaging any underground piping can lead to a much bigger repair job. Once you have full access, clean up any debris or dirt that may get in the way of installation.

Step 2: Mapping the Zones to the Controller

Understanding which zones correspond to which areas of your yard is crucial. Since I use a Rachio Smart Controller (check out my other article on that), I made sure each zone was mapped correctly before removing the old valves. Labeling your wiring at this stage can save a ton of headache later.

Step 3: Dismantling the Old System

Once the prep work was done, it was time to carefully remove the old valves. Turn off the water supply and use a wrench or pipe cutter to detach old fittings. Keep a close eye on wiring to avoid accidental damage. Be patient—this part can take time, especially if the system has been in place for years.

Step 4: Raising the System for Better Accessibility

One of the major improvements I made was raising the valves from 3 inches to 5 inches. This elevation keeps everything clear of mud and standing water, making future maintenance much easier. To do this, I used additional 3/4" PVC risers to lift the entire setup.

Step 5: Installing the New Rain Bird Anti-Siphon Valves

With everything prepped, it was time to install the new Rain Bird DASASVF075 Anti-Siphon Valves. These professional-grade valves prevent water from siphoning back into the system, which helps maintain water quality and prevent contamination. Using thread seal tape, I securely connected each valve to the corresponding pipes, ensuring a tight and leak-proof fit.

Step 6: Wiring and Controller Setup

With the valves installed, I connected the wiring to the Rachio controller. This step is straightforward if you labeled everything beforehand. Double-check connections and test each zone before closing everything up to make sure all valves are functioning properly.

Step 7: Aesthetic Finishing Touches

Instead of just leaving the upgraded system exposed, I took the extra step of making it look great! I added a border and decorative rocks around the valves to give the area a clean, finished look. This not only keeps things organized but also prevents dirt and debris from covering the setup over time.

Final Thoughts

This project was more complex than a typical DIY sprinkler fix, but it was completely worth it. The new system is leak-free, elevated for easy maintenance, and looks fantastic. If you’re considering upgrading your sprinkler control valves, I highly recommend taking the time to do it right—you’ll save water, reduce future headaches, and enhance your yard’s overall look.

Check out the before and after photos to see the transformation!

Have you upgraded your sprinkler system? Let us know!

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