A sprinkler system is crucial to a thriving yard space, but it must be properly winterized to avoid damage.

The winterization process is  a blow-out method of ridding all the water from all the irrigation components. Otherwise, water will freeze and cause damage to the underground pipes and eventually to the whole sprinkler system, including the sprinkler heads.

When to Winterize Sprinklers

You will want to  winterize your sprinkler system at least one week before the first “hard freeze,” which occurs when temperatures descend down to zero degrees Fahrenheit. You can check your local weather reports but don’t leave this until the last minute, it is better to let us take care of it by booking sprinkler winterization in advance.

If you fail to winterize your sprinkler system on time, you could be looking at frozen pipes, cracked sprinkler heads, and a frozen manifold. These problems are expensive and difficult to repair.

Tools

Air compressor

Air hose

Safety glasses

Quick-connect hose adaptor

Instructions:

Turn Off the Water:

Before winterizing your sprinkler system, turn off the water at the main valve and any backflow prevention valves.

Stop the Timer:

If your sprinkler system runs on an automatic timer, turn it off along with the water and maintain “rain mode” throughout the winter without problems or additional energy costs.

Drain the Water:

The most involved and time-consuming step of the sprinkler winterization process is draining water from your system, it is crucial for preventing complications later on.

Some sprinkler systems will allow you to forgo manual drainage and allow the system to drain itself. You’ll still have to loosen the seminoids (plastic caps with wires protruding from them on each valve) on the valves to let air into the system.

Insulate:

Protect the exposed pipes and backflow preventers of your sprinkler system from harsh winter weather by covering them with foam covers or insulation tape.

Final Notes:

If you’re not sure how to drain your sprinkler system, call us to make sure you’ve covered all your bases.

Don’t let the time go, book early and ensure your sprinkler winterization with us as booking fills fast.