Quck answer
To make an outdoor misting system with PVC, you will need PVC pipes, connectors, misting nozzles, and a water source.
1. Measure and cut the PVC pipes to the desired length.
2. Connect the pipes using PVC connectors to create the desired shape and layout for your misting system.
3. Attach misting nozzles to the pipes at regular intervals. These nozzles will create a fine mist when water is sprayed through them.
4. Connect the misting system to a water source, such as a garden hose or a water pump.
5. Test the system to ensure that the misting nozzles are working properly and producing a fine mist.
6. Install the misting system in your outdoor area, such as a patio or garden, and enjoy the cooling effect of the mist on hot days.
An outdoor misting system is a great way to cool the air without soaking your clothes or plants. While high-end misting systems require a pump to create high-pressure mist, you can make a low-pressure system using PVC pipe, fittings, and misters. The best misters for this system come with their own PVC coupler that you can easily attach to the pipes.
Misting Systems Overview
Misting systems work by vaporizing water, which absorbs energy from the surrounding air and cools it down. This cooling effect is similar to sweating or air conditioning. The cooling provided by a misting system depends on the temperature and humidity, but it can be as much as 30 degrees in hot, dry weather.
An effective misting system is usually mounted 8 to 10 feet above the ground, attached to a patio overhang, fence rail, or a network of trellises. The first step in designing a misting system is planning the pipe route and determining the mounting method. In most cases, standard pipe hangers can be used to secure the pipes in place.
Choosing Misters – When selecting misters for a low-pressure PVC system, it’s important to choose ones that operate at pressures ranging from 50 to 70 psi. These misters are similar to sprinklers, with a threaded base that screws into a fitting. It is recommended to purchase the fittings (typically 1/2-inch PVC couplers) along with the misters to avoid leaks during installation.
Installing a PVC Misting System
Once you have planned the pipe route, measure the total length and purchase enough 1/2-inch PVC pipe to span it. Additionally, you will need fittings such as elbows and tees, as well as enough misters to install at 24-inch intervals.
Step 1: Cutting the Pipe Into Sections
Use a PVC pipe cutter or hacksaw to cut the pipe into desired sections. If using a hacksaw, make sure to deburr the edges with a file or sandpaper before gluing the fittings. A pipe cutter does not require deburring.
Step 2: Attaching the Mister Fittings
Clean the ends of the pipes and the insides of the fittings with PVC primer. Then, use PVC cement to glue the fittings onto the pipes. Pay attention to the direction of each mister as you attach the fittings – all misters should face the same direction once finished.
Step 3: Hanging the Pipes
Use pipe hangers to support the misting pipe. Loosely nail one or two hangers to support the pipe, then position the pipe so that the misters are at the 5 or 7 o’clock position (not straight down). Tighten the hangers by driving in the fasteners. Install additional hangers at 24-inch intervals to prevent sagging.
First, install the perpendicular pipes separately. Once they are in place, connect them using elbows.
Step 4: Installing a Drain Fitting
To terminate the mister pipes, use a female threaded adapter where you can screw a plug. This plug can be easily removed when it’s time to drain the system.
Step 5: Connecting the Water
Extend the pipe to a convenient spigot and connect it. The method for connecting depends on the configuration, but in most cases, you can screw a hose-thread-to-pipe-thread adapter onto the spigot, then screw on a slip adapter and glue the pipe to it. It’s a good idea to install a multi-port adapter onto the spigot first so you can still use it for your garden hose.
Step 6: Testing the System
Turn on the water and inspect each mister for leaks. If you notice any leaks, tighten the mister into the fitting to stop them.
