Sprinkler System Winterization
October is the time when most people shut down their sprinkler systems for the season, and it is a good idea to have the system winterized at the same time. Winterizing a sprinkler system is the simple act of shutting off the water and using compressed air to force the water from the lines to ensure no freeze damage will occur over the winter. Even those with “self draining” systems should consider doing this as a precaution. It is impossible to tell if a self draining system has functioned properly or not until spring when it is too late, and freeze damage may have occurred.
It is also important to disconnect and drain outdoor hoses. Detaching the hose allows water to drain from the pipe. Otherwise, a single hard, overnight freeze can burst either the faucet or the pipe.
How to Winterize Your System
Below are steps to winterize a sprinkler system. If you are uncomfortable with the process, please hire a company to winterize your system for you.
- Shut of the water to the sprinkler system.
- Drain the backflow assembly and the line going back into the house. The shut off valves and test ports on the backflow assembly should be turned at a 45 degree angle to ensure they do not freeze and burst during the winter.
- Connect an air compressor to the system after the backflow assembly; forcing compressed air through the backflow assembly can damage internal parts that will need to be replaced in the spring. Make sure the compressor is set no higher than 70 psi (pounds per square inch) and can deliver at least 100 cfm (cubic feet per minute). Using over 70 psi can damage valves lines and heads, while using anything less than 100 cfm will not have the volume to force all the water out and much of the water stays in the lines while the air travels above it, giving the impression that the lines are clear of water when they are not.
How to Hire a Contractor
Many companies offer this service this time of year and if you choose to use one, consider asking these questions first:
- What do they charge?
- Do they warranty against freeze or any other damage that may occur during winterization?
- Do they have a compressor that can handle the job?
- Do they have references?