Winterize Self Draining Sprinkler System

Winterizing is fairly easy to learn and most do it yourselfers already own the necessary tools for the job.

Winterize self draining sprinkler system.

To minimize the risk of freeze damage you ll need to winterize your irrigation system. If you don t know your system type it is best to use the blowout method. Many offer sprinkler winterization services this time of the year. To completely remove water from the system a purge must be completed using compressed air.

Then connect the air line to the blow out port as shown. Step 1 shut off the water supply. Manual drain auto drain or blowout. There are several ways to drain your pipes.

However since there could be potential safety risks we recommend contacting your local irrigation specialist. Set the compressor air pressure regulator to a maximum of 80 psi for rigid pvc pipe systems or 50 psi for flexible black polyethylene pipe. Protect valves and backflow preventers. These are the ones at the lowest points in the sprinkler system which is where water collects when the system is shut off.

As temperatures outside drop below the freezing point of water water in your sprinkler system pipes can freeze into ice and expand causing your pipes to burst as a result. Then turn off the water supply and set the system timer to open just one zone. Winterization is an important part of maintaining a properly running lawn sprinkler system. How to winterize a sprinkler system.

Get your self draining underground sprinkling system ready for winter. Next open the manual drain valve at the end of that zone if equipped. For more home repair how tos home improvement help technology tips garden hints re. In this how to guide to winterization we will take a look at the steps involved in winterizing your sprinkler system in a cold climate.

As a general rule you should winterize your system at least a week before the first freeze is expected. Follow these steps to blow out an underground sprinkler system. In areas where winterization is mandatory irrigation systems are installed using one of three types of water removal. A manual drain valve an automatic drain valve or the compressed air blow out method.

Locate the manual drain valves situated downstream of each zone valve. After opening the valves the water in the mainline of the system should drain out on its own.