RAINPOINT SK1201 – Installation & Use

This article explains how to correctly install and use the RAINPOINT SK1201 Soaker Hose, including water-pressure adjustment, hose-to-hose connections, and recommended layout methods.

Before Use

Before turning on the water:

1. Tighten the end cap securely to help prevent leakage.
2. Fully unroll the soaker hose and lay it flat on the ground.
3. Briefly turn on the faucet to fill the hose.
4. Check that water can flow through the hose without kinks or internal blockage.

Basic Installation

Step 1: Connect the Water Source

Connect the female inlet of the SK1201 to a compatible water source.

Make sure the connection is properly sealed.

Step 2: Position the Soaker Hose

Lay the hose close to the plant roots in a smooth, curved layout.

The hose can be:

Laid on the soil surface, or used under a thin soil covering up to approximately 7.8 in

Avoid sharp bends and kinks.

Step 3: Install the End Cap

Attach the end cap to the opposite end of the hose.

Make sure it is securely tightened.

Step 4: Turn On the Water

Turn on the water supply and maintain a normal operating pressure of: 40–60 psi

The hose should release water gradually rather than producing a continuous strong stream.

How to Adjust Water Pressure

If Water Pressure Is Too Low

The manual recommends replacing the original gasket with one of the included:

• 2-hole flow-restrictor gaskets, or
• 3-hole flow-restrictor gaskets

Check the hose again after changing the gasket.

If Water Sprays Instead of Seeping

If the hose produces a continuous stream instead of a gentle drip, the water pressure is too high.

Reduce the water pressure and test again.

Connecting Two Soaker Hoses

When connecting one SK1201 soaker hose directly to another:

1. Disconnect the hose joint.
2. Remove the pressure-relief gasket from the connection between the two hoses.
3. Install a 3/4" flat rubber washer instead.
4. Connect the two hose sections securely.

The pressure-relief gasket should remain at the main water-source connection.

Installing an additional pressure-relief gasket between two hose sections may reduce downstream water pressure too much.

Using the Hose on Sloped Ground

Keep the soaker hose as level as possible.

If the irrigation route must travel uphill:

Use a standard garden hose and compatible fittings to cross the elevated section, then connect the soaker hose again at the next watering area.

Do not run a long soaker-hose section directly uphill.

Using Fertilizer Through the Hose

The SK1201 can be used with fertilizer only when the fertilizer is: Fully water-soluble

Before watering:

1. Completely dissolve the fertilizer in water.
2. Make sure no solid residue remains.
3. Then run the solution through the hose.

Undissolved fertilizer may leave residue inside the hose and cause blockage.

Repairing a Damaged Hose

If part of the hose or connector becomes damaged and leaks:

1. Turn off the water.
2. Cut away the damaged section.
3. Use the supplied repair connector.
4. Reconnect the remaining hose sections.
5. Turn on the water and check the repaired connection.

Related Articles

RAINPOINT SK1201 – Overview & Specifications

RAINPOINT SK1201 – Common Issues, Care & Safety