If your home has a sprinkler system there should be steps taken each fall to properly winterize it. Failure to do so could result in cracked pipes and broken valves that could cost thousands of dollars to fix next spring. However, many people always ask “What does winterizing a sprinkler system entail?”
Blowing It Out
The word winterize basically means to “blow out” your sprinkler system. This means that air is forced into the underground pipes, forcing all of the water out. Any water that is left inside of a sprinkler system during freezing temperatures will obviously freeze. A pipe filled with frozen water can eventually burst, ruining the system and forcing you to spend thousand of dollars to repair or replace it.
Steps Involved
In order to “blow out” the underground pipes, compressed air will need to be forced into the system. This is done by connecting a compressor that forces 80 psi of compressed air into the pipes. The compressor will need to be hooked up to the backflow device using a special fitting. Each zone of your sprinkler system will need to be blown out. However, once each zone has been cleared do not force in any more air. Otherwise, damage can be done to the pipes.
DIY or Professional?
Blowing out a sprinkler system to winterize it can be done by the homeowner, but it does require an adequate compressor, attachments, and knowledge of sprinkler systems. Otherwise, this type of maintenance should be left up to the pros that can do it for you quickly and efficiently. A professional winterization of your sprinkler system will give your system the best of odds of not becoming damaged during the freezing temperatures of winter.
Winterizing your sprinkler system is necessary each and every fall, and now is the perfect time to get this piece of home maintenance completed. When you’re in need of a professional to winterize your sprinkler system, contact Turf Unlimited. To learn more, or to schedule an appointment, give us a call at (888) 649-9919.
