How to winterize your irrigation system to prevent damage
Step 1: Turn off the water supply
The first step in winterizing your irrigation system is to turn off the water supply to the system. This can usually be done by turning off the main valve that supplies water to your property. Once the water is turned off, you can begin to drain the system to prevent any remaining water from freezing and causing damage.
Step 2: Drain the system
To drain the system, you will need to open all of the drain valves and open the manual drain valves on your backflow preventer. This will allow any remaining water to drain out of the system. You should also remove any water from the pipes by blowing compressed air through the system using an air compressor. This will help to remove any water that may be trapped in the pipes.
Step 3: Inspect the system
Once the system is drained, you should inspect it for any damage or wear that may need to be repaired before the system is turned back on in the spring. Check for any leaks, cracks, or other damage that may have occurred over the summer and fall. You should also inspect the sprinkler heads and make any necessary repairs or replacements.
Step 4: Protect the system from the elements
After you have inspected the system and made any necessary repairs, you should protect it from the elements to prevent any further damage. This can be done by covering the sprinkler heads with a plastic bag or other cover to protect them from snow and ice. You should also cover any exposed pipes or backflow preventers with insulation to protect them from the cold.
Step 5: Turn off automatic timers
If you have automatic timers on your irrigation system, you should turn them off to prevent the system from turning on during the winter months. This will help to prevent any damage that may occur if the system were to turn on while it is frozen.
By following these steps, you can winterize your irrigation system and protect it from damage. This will help to ensure that your system is ready to go when spring arrives, and you can enjoy a healthy, beautiful lawn all season long.
Additional Tips for Winterizing Your Irrigation System
- If you are unsure of how to winterize your irrigation system, you should consult with a professional who can provide guidance and assistance.
- Make sure to turn off any automatic timers or controllers on your irrigation system before beginning the winterization process.
- When draining the system, be sure to open all of the drain valves and manual drain valves on your backflow preventer to remove any remaining water from the pipes.
- Inspect the system for any damage or wear that may need to be repaired before the system is turned back on in the spring.
- Cover any exposed pipes or backflow preventers with insulation to protect them from the cold.
- Use a plastic bag or other cover to protect the sprinkler heads from snow and ice during the winter.
- If you have any questions or concerns about winterizing your irrigation system, don't hesitate to contact a professional for help.