Winterizing your sprinkler system is crucial to prevent costly damage from freezing temperatures. Blowing out your sprinkler system is the most effective method to remove water and protect your valuable irrigation investment. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process step-by-step.
Why Blow Out Your Sprinkler System?
Freezing water expands, putting immense pressure on your sprinkler system's pipes, valves, and backflow preventer. This expansion can lead to cracks, burst pipes, and expensive repairs in the spring. Blowing out your system removes all water, preventing this damage and ensuring a smooth start to the next irrigation season.
The Consequences of Neglecting Winterization:
- Broken Pipes: Frozen water expands, causing pipes to burst, leading to leaks and significant repair costs.
- Damaged Valves: The pressure from expanding ice can damage valves, rendering them unusable.
- Backflow Preventer Failure: This essential component protects your drinking water supply. Damage here can lead to contamination and costly replacements.
- Lost Irrigation Season: Repairing a damaged system can take time, delaying the start of your irrigation season.
Essential Tools and Materials for Sprinkler System Blowout
Before you begin, gather the necessary tools:
- Air Compressor: You'll need a powerful air compressor capable of delivering sufficient pressure (typically 60-80 PSI) to effectively clear your sprinkler lines.
- Air Chuck with a suitable fitting: Make sure the fitting is compatible with your sprinkler system's blow-out valve or fitting.
- Blow-out Plugs or Caps: These are essential to seal off each zone during the blowing out process.
- Wrench: To tighten and loosen blow-out plugs and valves.
- Gloves: For protection during the process.
- Safety Glasses: To protect your eyes from debris.
- Extension hose (optional but recommended): For reaching more distant blow-out valves.
Step-by-Step Guide to Blowing Out Your Sprinkler System
This process is best done on a mild, dry day to avoid moisture interfering with the air flow.
1. Turn Off the Main Water Supply: Locate your main water shut-off valve and completely turn off the water supply to the entire sprinkler system. This is crucial to prevent water from entering the system during the blowing out process.
2. Locate Your Blow-Out Valves: Identify the location of your system's blow-out valves or fittings. These are typically located at the ends of each irrigation zone.
3. Connect the Air Compressor: Attach the air chuck to the blow-out valve.
4. Blow Out Each Zone: Start with one zone at a time. Turn on the air compressor and allow air to flow through the sprinkler line until no more water is expelled. Observe the water pressure closely.
5. Install Blow-Out Plugs or Caps: Once each zone is completely drained, securely attach a blow-out plug or cap to prevent debris or moisture from entering the system.
6. Blow Out the Backflow Preventer: Your backflow preventer requires special attention. Consult your owner's manual for specific instructions, as this is often done through a dedicated port. Improperly blowing this out can cause damage.
7. Check for Leaks: After completing the entire process, inspect the entire system for any leaks.
Maintaining Your Sprinkler System After Blow Out
- Store Equipment Properly: Properly store your equipment during winter months. Protect the compressor from moisture.
- Inspect in Spring: Before turning your system back on in spring, conduct a thorough inspection for any signs of damage.
Remember: If you are uncomfortable performing this task yourself, contact a professional irrigation technician. They have the expertise and equipment to winterize your sprinkler system effectively and prevent potential problems. Proper winterization is a small investment that safeguards a substantial investment – your sprinkler system.
