Winterize Self Draining Sprinkler System

Many offer sprinkler winterization services this time of the year.

Winterize self draining sprinkler system.

Where you live plays a big part in which steps you will need to follow. Winterization is an important part of maintaining a properly running lawn sprinkler system. 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 this how to guide to winterization we will take a look at the steps involved in winterizing your sprinkler system in a cold climate. Below the freezing point some of the most critical components of a sprinkler system can be damaged. Then turn off the water supply and set the system timer to open just one zone. For more home repair how tos home improvement help technology tips garden hints re.

In areas where winterization is mandatory irrigation systems are installed using one of three types of water removal. 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. After opening the valves the water in the mainline of the system should drain out on its own. Locate the manual drain valves situated downstream of each zone valve.

How to winterize a sprinkler system. To completely remove water from the system a purge must be completed using compressed air. If you don t know your system type it is best to use the blowout method. However since there could be potential safety risks we recommend contacting your local irrigation specialist.

To minimize the risk of freeze damage you ll need to winterize your irrigation system. Protect valves and backflow preventers. A manual drain valve an automatic drain valve or the compressed air blow out method. Follow these steps to blow out an underground sprinkler system.

Then connect the air line to the blow out port as shown. These are the ones at the lowest points in the sprinkler system which is where water collects when the system is shut off. Next open the manual drain valve at the end of that zone if equipped. Keep an eye on the local weather reports in the newspaper or on television for when the first freeze of the year is expected.

Step 1 shut off the water supply. Manual drain auto drain or blowout.