As the days grow shorter and the temperatures begin to dip, homeowners with irrigation systems face a crucial task: winterizing their sprinklers. Neglecting this essential maintenance can lead to frozen pipes, cracked sprinkler heads, and costly repairs. Winterizing your sprinkler system protects your investment and ensures it's ready to efficiently water your lawn and garden when spring arrives. This comprehensive guide provides the knowledge and steps necessary to properly winterize your sprinklers, preventing cold weather damage and saving you time and money.
Why Winterize Your Sprinkler System?
Water expands when it freezes. This seemingly simple fact is the core reason behind the importance of winterizing your sprinkler system. When water trapped within the pipes, valves, and sprinkler heads freezes, the expansion can cause these components to crack and break. Repairing or replacing damaged parts can be expensive, making winterization a worthwhile preventative measure. According to the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS), proper maintenance, including winterizing outdoor plumbing, is crucial for preventing water damage. [1]
- Prevent Frozen Pipes: The most common and costly damage.
- Protect Sprinkler Heads: Prevent cracking and breakage.
- Extend System Lifespan: Proper maintenance ensures longevity.
- Save Money: Avoid expensive repairs and replacements.
Choosing the Right Winterization Method
There are three primary methods for winterizing a sprinkler system: the blowout method, the manual drain method, and the automatic drain method. The best method for you depends on your system's design, local climate, and personal preference.
1. Blowout Method
The blowout method uses compressed air to force water out of the sprinkler lines. This method is generally considered the most effective, especially in regions with harsh winters. It's crucial to perform the blowout correctly to avoid damaging the system. According to Colorado State University Extension, using excessive air pressure can damage sprinkler heads and pipes. [2]
When to use: Recommended for most systems, especially in cold climates.
How to:
- Gather Supplies: Air compressor (capable of delivering 80-100 PSI), appropriate fittings to connect the compressor to your system, safety glasses.
- Shut off Water Supply: Locate the main water supply valve for your sprinkler system and turn it off completely. This is usually located in the basement or near the water meter.
- Locate the Backflow Preventer: Find your system's backflow preventer. This device prevents irrigation water from flowing back into your potable water supply. Open the test cocks on the backflow preventer to release any trapped water.
- Connect the Air Compressor: Connect the air compressor to the blowout port, typically located after the backflow preventer.
- Set Air Compressor Pressure: Adjust the air compressor to the appropriate pressure. For PVC pipes, do not exceed 80 PSI. For Polyethylene pipes, do not exceed 50 PSI.
- Blow Out Each Zone: Open one zone valve at a time. Slowly introduce compressed air into the system. Allow the air to run until only a fine mist is expelled from the sprinkler heads in that zone. This may take several minutes.
- Repeat for All Zones: Repeat the process for each zone in your system. It’s generally recommended to cycle through each zone 2-3 times.
- Disconnect the Air Compressor: Once all zones have been blown out, disconnect the air compressor.
- Open Drain Valves: Open any manual drain valves in the system to allow any remaining water to escape.
Safety Tip: Always wear safety glasses when performing the blowout method. Debris can be ejected from the sprinkler heads at high speeds.
Example: Imagine you have a 4-zone system. You would connect the air compressor, set the pressure to 50 PSI (assuming you have polyethylene pipes), and then open the valve for zone 1. You would let the air run until only mist comes out of the sprinklers in zone 1. Then, you'd close zone 1, open zone 2, and repeat. You'd do this for all four zones, and then repeat the entire process 2 more times to ensure all water is cleared.
2. Manual Drain Method
The manual drain method relies on gravity to drain water from the system. This method is most effective if your sprinkler system is designed with drain valves at the lowest points in the piping. It's less effective than the blowout method in completely removing all water, but it's a viable option in areas with milder winters or for systems with good drainage design.
When to use: Suitable for systems with drain valves at low points; best in milder climates.
How to:
- Shut off Water Supply: Turn off the main water supply to the sprinkler system.
- Locate and Open Drain Valves: Find all manual drain valves located at the lowest points in the sprinkler lines and open them. This allows water to drain out by gravity.
- Open Test Cocks on Backflow Preventer: Open the test cocks on the backflow preventer to release any trapped water.
- Open Sprinkler Heads (Optional): Remove or unscrew sprinkler heads to allow air to enter the system and facilitate drainage.
Tip: Use a shop vac to remove any remaining water in the valve boxes.
Example: You locate three drain valves on your system, all situated at low points. You open all three valves and allow the water to drain completely. You then go to each sprinkler head and unscrew it slightly to allow air to enter the lines and help push out any remaining water.
3. Automatic Drain Method
Some sprinkler systems are equipped with automatic drain valves. These valves are designed to automatically open and drain the system when the water pressure drops below a certain level (usually due to shutting off the main water supply). While convenient, it's essential to verify that the automatic drain valves are functioning correctly. Soil and debris can sometimes clog these valves, preventing them from opening fully.
When to use: For systems equipped with automatic drain valves.
How to:
- Shut off Water Supply: Turn off the main water supply to the sprinkler system.
- Observe Automatic Drain Valves: Check that the automatic drain valves open and water begins to drain from the system.
- Manually Open Valves if Necessary: If the automatic drain valves don't open on their own, manually open them by turning the valve stems.
- Open Test Cocks on Backflow Preventer: Open the test cocks on the backflow preventer to release any trapped water.
Actionable Advice: Periodically inspect and clean automatic drain valves to ensure proper operation.
Example: After shutting off the water supply, you observe the automatic drain valves. One valve opens immediately and water starts flowing. The other valve remains closed. You manually open the closed valve by turning the valve stem until water begins to drain.
Protecting the Backflow Preventer
The backflow preventer is one of the most vulnerable components of your sprinkler system during winter. Because it is typically located above ground, it is more exposed to freezing temperatures. Protecting the backflow preventer is critical to prevent costly damage. According to the American Backflow Prevention Association (ABPA), proper insulation is essential for protecting backflow preventers in cold climates. [3]
How to:
- Insulation: Wrap the backflow preventer with insulation material specifically designed for pipes. Foam pipe insulation sleeves are readily available at most hardware stores.
- Heating Tape: In extremely cold climates, consider using heating tape wrapped around the backflow preventer. Be sure to use heating tape specifically designed for outdoor use and follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully.
- Protective Enclosure: Consider building or purchasing a protective enclosure for the backflow preventer. These enclosures provide an extra layer of insulation and protection from the elements.
- Remove and Store (If Possible): If your backflow preventer is easily removable, consider disconnecting it and storing it indoors for the winter.
Tip: Don't use rags or towels as insulation, as these can absorb moisture and freeze, potentially making the problem worse.
Example: You purchase foam pipe insulation sleeves from a hardware store. You carefully wrap the insulation around the backflow preventer, ensuring all parts are covered. You then secure the insulation with duct tape.
Winterizing Sprinkler Heads and Valves
While the primary focus of winterization is on preventing frozen pipes, it's also important to take steps to protect the sprinkler heads and valves. Although they are generally more resilient than pipes, they can still be damaged by freezing water.
How to:
- Sprinkler Heads: After blowing out or draining the system, remove any remaining water from the sprinkler heads. You can do this by manually pulling up on the pop-up heads or using a small tool to dislodge any trapped water.
- Valve Boxes: Check valve boxes for standing water and remove any debris. Standing water in valve boxes can freeze and damage the valves. Use a small pump or a wet/dry vacuum to remove any water.
Actionable Advice: Consider replacing any cracked or damaged sprinkler heads before winter to prevent further damage.
Example: You check each valve box and find that one box has about an inch of standing water. You use a small submersible pump to remove the water from the box.
Final Checklist and Spring Preparation
Before declaring your sprinkler system fully winterized, review this checklist to ensure you haven't missed any steps:
- [ ] Main water supply is turned off.
- [ ] Backflow preventer is protected (insulated, heated, or stored).
- [ ] All zones have been blown out or drained.
- [ ] Drain valves are open.
- [ ] Sprinkler heads are cleared of water.
- [ ] Valve boxes are clear of standing water and debris.
Preparing for Spring:
In the spring, carefully inspect your entire sprinkler system for any signs of damage before turning the water back on. Look for cracked pipes, broken sprinkler heads, and leaks. Replace any damaged components before pressurizing the system. Gradually increase the water pressure when you turn the system back on to avoid water hammer, which can damage pipes and valves. Schedule a professional irrigation system inspection to ensure optimal performance.
Conclusion
Winterizing your sprinkler system is an essential preventative maintenance task that can save you significant time and money in the long run. By understanding the different winterization methods and following the steps outlined in this guide, you can protect your investment and ensure your sprinkler system is ready to efficiently irrigate your landscape when spring arrives. Don't wait until the first frost – take action now to winterize your sprinklers and enjoy peace of mind throughout the winter months. The next step is to gather your supplies and schedule a day to complete the winterization process. Your lawn will thank you!
References:
- Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS) - https://ibhs.org/
- Colorado State University Extension - https://extension.colostate.edu/
- American Backflow Prevention Association (ABPA) - https://www.abpa.org/