Pop-Up Emitter and Daylighting

The water collected from our drainage systems needs to be discharged safely away from the home's foundation. These are the steps we take to install a pop-up emitter and daylight outlet properly.

Why This Matters

Proper discharge methods ensure collected water flows away from foundations while preventing erosion, pooling, and system backups.

Section 1: Pop-Up Emitter

1

Connect Elbow to Emitter

Secure the elbow connection to ensure proper water flow direction.

  • Attach the white elbow to the pop-up emitter using two corrosion-resistant screws, one on each side
  • Ensure the emitter is oriented correctly so water flows freely away from the elbow
  • Do not install it backward
Connecting elbow to pop-up emitter
2

Drill Drain Hole

Prevent standing water and related issues with proper drainage.

  • Drill a 3/8" hole at the bottom of the elbow to allow slow drainage
  • This prevents standing water, which can attract mosquitoes or cause foul odors
Drain hole drilled in elbow
3

Connect Pipe

Create a watertight connection between the drainage system and emitter.

  • Use pipe tape to securely connect the drainage pipe to the elbow
4

Base of Gravel

Create a stable foundation that promotes drainage and prevents clogging.

  • Make sure the trench near the discharge area is at least 12" deep
  • Lay 4–6" of gravel in the base where the emitter will sit
  • This helps excess water drain and prevents mud from clogging the elbow
5

Position at Grade

Achieve proper positioning for optimal function and aesthetics.

  • Place the emitter so that the top sits 1–2" below the final soil grade
  • Adjust surrounding soil and gravel as needed for a flush finish
  • In this example, two pop-up emitters were installed side-by-side pointing toward the street
Pop-up emitters positioned at grade
6

Compact Under Plate

Ensure long-term stability and proper emitter function.

  • Use your hands or a mallet to firmly pack dirt under and around the emitter plate
  • Compacting helps keep the emitter level and secure over time
Compacting around pop-up emitter

Section 2: Daylighting

1

Identify Placement of Daylight Cut

Select the optimal discharge location for effective water management.

  • Locate the point where the pipe will discharge at the surface
  • This is usually the lowest point on the property and allows water to exit freely
  • Always confirm the location with the foreman before cutting
Identifying where to daylight the pipe
2

Cut Daylight Outlet

Create the discharge opening with proper angle for water flow.

  • Use a Sawzall to carefully cut a 45° angle at the discharge point
  • The cut should aim away from the property and toward the drainage area
  • Follow all safety procedures while cutting
Cutting 45-degree angle with sawzall
3

Clean and Inspect

Ensure optimal water flow with a clean, properly angled discharge.

  • Remove any debris or plastic scraps from the pipe
  • Check that the cut is smooth and angled properly to allow water to flow out without pooling or backing up
Smooth daylight cut in pipe
4

Critter Guard Installation

Protect the system from unwanted intrusions while maintaining water flow.

  • Installation details to be added.
5

Backfill Around Discharge

Complete the installation while protecting the discharge outlet.

  • Backfill the area around the outlet without blocking it
  • The discharge must remain clear and angled slightly downward
  • If the pipe discharges in a mowable area, follow the foreman's extra instructions to make sure the pipe won't be damaged by a mower
Finished daylight discharge area