Cold Climate Construction Guidance, “Perc-Rite®” Drip Dispersal Systems

  1. “Top feed” manifolds are to be used to allow for proper manifold drainage. Top feed manifolds are to be located slightly higher than the drip tubing.

  2. All attempts should be made to place the Hydraulic Unit with an open southern exposure for warming purposes.

  3. The supply and return lines shall be installed below the frost line. The vertical sections of pipe that connect to the supply and return lines shall be insulated SCH 40 PVC pipe using a minimum 1/2” thick foam (or equivalent). Insulation may be installed under the Hydraulic Unit to protect the supply and return lines in extreme conditions using 1/2” rigid foam. Sufficient ground cover around the Hydraulic Unit is required for insulation. All pipes entering and leaving the Hydraulic Unit shall elbow vertically down 90 degrees to a depth below the frost line prior to extending away from the Hydraulic Unit horizontally. Additional insulation inside the Hydraulic Unit enclosure is encouraged. Insulation to consist of rigid foam, bagged Styrofoam peanuts, or equivalent. If fiberglass insulation is used, it must be sealed to prevent saturation.

  4. Dense vegetative cover is to be established over the supply trench, return trench, and drip tubing prior to the first exposure to freezing temperatures. If vegetation cannot be established, then trenches and tubing must be covered with a thick layer (minimum 6”) of mulch, straw/hay, etc. until such turf cover is established. Established vegetation height over the dispersal area should be a minimum 4” - 6” throughout winter months.

  5. Contractor shall insulate all “air release valves.” Insulation to consist of rigid foam insulation, bagged Styrofoam peanuts, or equivalent. If fiberglass insulation is used, it must be sealed to prevent saturation. Air release valves shall be placed below the ground surface inside a valve box but at an elevation above the highest drip line in that particular zone.

  6. All loops connecting drip runs shall be slightly elevated (minimum 2”) so that they drain into the drip tubing after the pump shuts off. It is the contractor’s responsibility to ensure these loops stay elevated during and after the loops are backfilled.

  7. All conduit entering into the control panel shall be sealed to prevent condensation from forming inside the panel.