Winter is coming, and with it, the threat of freezing temperatures that could wreak havoc on your sprinkler system. If you’re a homeowner, you might already know the importance of winterizing your system to prevent burst pipes and cracked sprinkler heads. But here’s the good news: winterizing your irrigation system doesn’t have to be a complicated or costly task. In fact, it’s a straightforward DIY project that can save you hundreds of dollars in repairs. In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about blowing out your sprinkler system, from gathering your tools to understanding the physics behind why it’s essential.
Why Winterizing Your Sprinkler System Is a Must
Water freezes at 32°F (0°C), and when it does, it expands by about 9% in volume. This phenomenon may seem small, but the consequences can be disastrous for your sprinkler system. As the water in your pipes freezes and expands, it puts immense pressure on the pipes and sprinkler heads. This pressure can cause cracks, leaks, or even complete system failure. If that happens, you’ll be looking at repair costs ranging anywhere from $150 to $500 to fix broken sprinkler heads or pipes, and in some cases, the damage might be much worse.
By blowing out your sprinkler system, you remove all the water, preventing it from freezing and causing damage. This simple process can extend the life of your system and save you from expensive repairs in the spring.
What You’ll Need for Sprinkler Winterization
Before you dive into the process, it’s essential to have the right tools. Many of these items can be found at your local hardware store or home improvement center. Here’s a list of what you’ll need:
- Air Compressor: A portable air compressor with the right CFM (cubic feet per minute) for your system. Smaller systems need about 4-10 CFM, while larger systems may need more.
- Cost: Expect to pay between $100-$300 for a decent air compressor.
- Air Compressor Hose & Fittings: The proper hose and fittings to connect the compressor to your sprinkler system’s blowout port or valve.
- Safety Gear: Safety glasses and gloves to protect yourself from flying debris and dust.
- Wrench/Key: An adjustable wrench or sprinkler key to open and close valves.
- Teflon Tape: This can be used to seal any fittings if needed.
The items above can be found at places like Home Depot, Lowe’s, or any well-stocked hardware store.
Step-by-Step Guide to Blowing Out Your Sprinkler System
Now that you have your tools ready, let’s dive into the actual winterization process. Though it may seem like a lot of steps, don’t worry—each step is simple and easy to follow.
1. Turn Off the Water Supply
The first step is to turn off the water supply to your sprinkler system. Find the main water shut-off valve (usually located in your basement or utility room) and close it completely.
2. Locate the Blowout Port or Main Valve
Find the blowout port of your sprinkler system. If you don’t have one, you can use the main valve or any other port that allows air to flow through the pipes. Make sure you consult your system’s manual if you’re unsure where to connect the air compressor.
3. Connect the Air Compressor
Now, attach the air compressor hose to the blowout port or main valve. Ensure that the connection is secure and there are no leaks.
4. Set the Air Compressor Pressure
Here’s an important step: set the air compressor to the recommended PSI (pounds per square inch). Don’t over-pressurize—you should keep the pressure between 40-60 PSI for most residential systems. If the pressure is too high, you risk damaging the system. It’s also important to start blowing from the zone furthest from the compressor to allow the mainline to clear first. This way, you can ensure air and water flow out smoothly.
5. Open the First Zone Valve
Head over to your sprinkler control panel and manually open the valve for the first zone. Always start with the furthest zone so you can clear the main line first.
6. Start the Air Compressor
Turn on the air compressor, and watch the air begin pushing the water out of the sprinkler heads. You should start seeing water expelling from the sprinklers almost immediately.
7. Blow Each Zone Systematically
Work your way through each zone one by one. Let the air run for 2-3 minutes per zone, or until no more water is visible coming from the sprinkler heads. Be patient! The goal is to remove every last drop of water from the system.
8. Observe the Spray Pattern
As you blow out each zone, carefully observe the spray pattern of each sprinkler head. If water is still coming out after a few minutes, that means some water is trapped. Repeat the process for that zone until you see no water coming out.
9. Close All Zone Valves
After you’ve cleared all zones, go back and close all the manual zone valves to prevent air from escaping.
10. Disconnect the Air Compressor
Once all the zones are cleared, disconnect the air compressor hose from the blowout port. Be careful to avoid any sudden bursts of air.
11. Drain the Backflow Preventer
A backflow preventer stops contaminated water from flowing back into the clean water supply. It’s critical to drain it properly to avoid freeze damage. Open any test cocks or drain valves as per your system’s instructions.
12. Consider Other Components
Don’t forget to check any above-ground components like faucets and hose bibs. If they’re exposed, they should be drained and insulated to avoid freezing.
Important Tips for Effective Winterization
- Wear Protective Gear: Always wear safety glasses when blowing out your system to avoid injury from debris or dust.
- Mark Your Sprinkler Heads: Use flags or markers to identify where your sprinkler heads are located. This will protect them from damage caused by snow accumulation or foot traffic.
- Lubricate Valve Stems: After winterizing, lubricate your valve stems with a silicone-based lubricant. This will help prevent them from sticking when it’s time to use the system again in the spring.
Common Questions
- What if water still comes out after a few minutes? If water is still coming out, it means some water is trapped in the sprinkler heads or pipes. Simply let the air run longer, and double-check for any zones you may have missed.
- What if I don’t have a dedicated blowout port? You can still blow out your system using the main valve or any other accessible port. Just make sure the compressor is connected securely.
- Can I just drain my system instead of blowing it out? Draining your system is better than nothing, but blowing it out with air is much more effective for removing all water from the pipes.
- How long does it take to blow out each zone? Typically, it will take about 2-3 minutes per zone, but this may vary depending on your system’s size and pressure.
Conclusion: Protect Your Investment and Save Money
Blowing out your sprinkler system is one of the best things you can do to protect it from the cold and ensure it’s ready to go in the spring. Not only does it save you money on repairs, but it also conserves water by preventing leaks caused by freeze damage. Plus, it’s a simple DIY project that gives you peace of mind knowing your system is safe. Remember, when in doubt, consult your system’s manual or call a professional. But with these easy-to-follow steps, you’re well on your way to becoming a sprinkler winterization pro.