
Using an irrigation system to keep your grass from browning out each summer? If you don't properly winterize that system, you run the risk of water freezing, causing the pipes to burst. Frozen water in the backflow assembly also can damage the internal components, putting you at risk of water contamination from backflow. If you've got a sprinkler system, you'll want to follow these steps and learn how to winterize your irrigation system.
The Blow Out Winterizing Method
What you need: Stop by at Tractor Supply or Lowe's and rent an air compressor with a cubic foot per minute rating of 80 to 100.
Step 1. Shut off the irrigation water supply to prevent more water from entering the system.
With the compressor valve in the closed position, attach the air compressor hose to the mainline using a quick coupler, hose bib or other type of connection, which is located just past the backflow device.
Step 2. Activate the station on the controller that’s in the zone furthest away from the compressor, or the sprinklers at the highest elevation away from the compressor.
Step 3. Close the backflow isolation valves, then slowly open the compressor valve to gradually allow air to fill the sprinkler system.
The blowout pressure should remain below the maximum operating pressure specification of the lowest pressure rated component on that zone and should never exceed 80 PSI. Each zone should be activated for about two minutes or until no water can be seen exiting the heads. Repeat for all remaining zones, ending with the zone closest to the compressor.
Step 4. Once the water has been removed from the irrigation system, turn off the compressor and disconnect it from the system.
Once the zone is dry, stop blowing air through the pipe. Open the valves on the compressor to release any excess air pressure.
You're done!
Need a Charlotte Plumber to Winterize Irrigation Systems?
Intimidated? Don't want to rent an air compressor? Just don't have the time to do it yourself? Give us a call at 704-846-5371 and we'll winterize your irrigation system for you.
Need backflow testing, too? We'll gladly perform backflow testing to protect you from water contamination.
Whatever you do, don't ignore your irrigation system. We get freezing temps here in Charlotte, and every year we get a spike in calls for frozen and burst pipes, including frozen or burst irrigation systems. We look forward to helping you prepare for winter.
Article Summary
Quick question & answer: What is the best way to winterize my irrigation system?
The best way to winterize your irrigation system is The Blow Out Winterizing Method. First, shut off irrigation water supply to prevent more water from entering the system. Activate the station on the controller furthest from the compressor. Close backflow isolation valves and slowly open compressor valve. After the water has been removed, turn off the compressor and disconnect it.