The critical factor of an in-ground sprinkler system is that its water source is below ground. In-ground sprinkler systems connect to your waterline via underground pipes, so all the piping supplying water to the sprinkler heads won't be visible.
1. When it's time for watering, the irrigation system activates the zone containing the pop-up sprinklers. This can be done manually through a control panel, a timer, or remotely through a smart irrigation system.
2. Upon activation, water flows through the underground pipes into the pop-up heads. The water pressure within the system causes the sprinkler riser to extend upward out of the ground.
3. Once the sprinkler head locks into its fully extended position, water flows through the nozzle(s) on the head and is distributed in the intended patterns.
4. The pop-up sprinkler runs for a predetermined time, determined by the irrigation system's controller or timer.
5. When the watering cycle is complete, the controller shuts off the water to the zone. As the water pressure drops, the sprinkler's riser mechanism retracts, lowering the sprinkler head into its underground position.