Winterize Self Draining Sprinkler System

Protect valves and backflow preventers.

Winterize self draining sprinkler system.

These are the ones at the lowest points in the sprinkler system which is where water collects when the system is shut off. How to winterize a sprinkler system. Locate the manual drain valves situated downstream of each zone valve. Follow these steps to blow out an underground sprinkler system.

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. Manual drain auto drain or blowout. Where you live plays a big part in which steps you will need to follow. Then connect the air line to the blow out port as shown.

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. 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. Many offer sprinkler winterization services this time of the year. Get your self draining underground sprinkling system ready for winter.

For more home repair how tos home improvement help technology tips garden hints re. Next open the manual drain valve at the end of that zone if equipped. To completely remove water from the system a purge must be completed using compressed air. After opening the valves the water in the mainline of the system should drain out on its own.

To minimize the risk of freeze damage you ll need to winterize your irrigation system. Then turn off the water supply and set the system timer to open just one zone. As a general rule you should winterize your system at least a week before the first freeze is expected. Winterizing is fairly easy to learn and most do it yourselfers already own the necessary tools for the job.

There are several ways to drain your pipes. In areas where winterization is mandatory irrigation systems are installed using one of three types of water removal. Step 1 shut off the water supply. However since there could be potential safety risks we recommend contacting your local irrigation specialist.

Winterization is an important part of maintaining a properly running lawn sprinkler system. Below the freezing point some of the most critical components of a sprinkler system can be damaged.