Winter sprinkler system care is a topic that most people don’t think about until winter sprinklers start failing. Sprinkler system winterization is the process of inspecting and repairing sprinkler systems in preparation for cold weather. Winterizing sprinklers can save homeowners money on utility bills, prevent expensive damage to their homes from frozen pipes, and avoid potential liability issues with neighbors whose sprinklers are running all year round. This article will cover how to prepare your sprinkler system for winter along with some tips on sprinkler head adjustment and when to call a sprinkler company.
Why Should You Even Care to Winterize Your Sprinkler System?
If you’re like me, it’s easy to forget certain things as the weather gets colder and we spend less time outdoors. The last thing I want is for my sprinkler system to be damaged by freezing temperatures because I didn’t care enough to winterize it! The reason sprinkler systems get damaged is because they are not winterized.
Winterization is the process of draining water out of sprinkler system components to avoid damage during cold weather conditions. If you live in a moderate climate, this could mean shutting off your irrigation supply and allowing it to drain until springtime or early summer before turning back on again. For areas that experience colder temperatures, there are more steps involved.
Sprinkler system winterization is important because it prevents damage to your sprinkler heads and ensures they continue functioning properly throughout the entire season. It also gives you peace of mind knowing that when spring comes, all you have to do is turn it back on! If done correctly, both grass and plants will be greener, lusher, and healthier than ever before.
If that sounds like you too, here are a few tips and tricks:
So What Are Some Tips For Sprinkler System Winterization?
- Make sure all sprinkler heads are set to low pressure, this will prevent water from being ejected during freezing temperatures.
- Ensure that your system is protected with an antifreeze agent
- If you have a lot of exposed pipes or irrigation lines around the exterior of your house it would be wise to cover them up as well.
- Drain your sprinkler system components and make sure to check for leaks.
- Drain the pipes and allow them to drip.
- Cover all exposed sprinkler heads or piping with insulation sleeves or caps, this will prevent damage from occurring due to ice forming inside of these areas.
- Check for damaged sprinkler heads and remove any that are found. If a head is broken, replace the entire system with new parts
- Clean debris from nozzles and riser pipes (if you have adjustable sprinklers)
- Remove all water from risers and pipes
- If you have a winterizing kit, install it on your risers and open all of the bleed valves. This will remove air from your system and prevent low pressure due to trapped air preventing water flow. Make sure that all sprinkler heads are set to their lowest setting! For those with electronic controllers, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for setting your system to low pressure.
- Turn off the power supply to your sprinkler controller if you have an electronic sprinkler timer
- Remove all water from risers and pipes
The Importance Of Sprinkler Head Adjustment:
There’s nothing more frustrating than having a sprinkler system that doesn’t quite do what you want it to! This is why I always recommend adjusting your sprinklers before winterizing them.
Adjust the arc of each sprinkler head so they are not hitting any areas where people walk, drive or play.
Keep in mind that if there has been any precipitation in your area, sprinkler head adjustment may be more difficult than usual. If this is the case, I would recommend hiring a professional to do it for you.
Why You Should Call A Sprinkler Company For Help:
If you need help with winterizing your sprinkler system or have questions about how to make adjustments before doing so, don’t hesitate to contact a sprinkler company. They can help you with all of your needs and will ensure that everything runs smoothly once winter is over!
– If there has been any precipitation in your area, adjusting the arc on each sprinkler head may be difficult because they could get stuck.
– The pros can handle any type of sprinkler system and make sure that everything is taken care of before winter arrives.
– They will ensure your yard looks the absolute best during warmer weather, so take advantage of their expertise!
If you have a large or complicated irrigation system it may be necessary to call in a professional to help with this process. They will make sure that your sprinkler system is ready for winter and they can also help you with any questions or concerns along the way!
Make sure to call a sprinkler company if:
– You do not feel confident in adjusting the arc on each sprinkler head yourself
– If there has been any precipitation recently, adjusting your sprinkler heads may be difficult
– If you do not want to adjust the arc on each sprinkler head yourself, it is best to call in a professional who can help with this process. They will ensure that everything goes smoothly and they have all of the tools necessary for helping homeowners winterize their irrigation systems!
– Sprinkler companies have all of the tools necessary for helping homeowners winterize their sprinkler systems
– They can also help with any questions or concerns that you may have along the way!
By following these steps, you can ensure that the only thing damaged by winter weather is going to be some snow on your lawn. Happy Watering!