Winterization of Sprinkler Systems
Sprinkler systems in the Northwest should have the water blown out prior to the weather getting too cold and freezing the water in the system. Sprinkler system winterizations normally start the last week of September and are finished by the first week of November. A proper system winterization will prolong the life of the system and have less chance of freeze breaks. Too much air pressure can send a sprinkler head shooting into the sky like a bottle rocket. Too little air pressure will leave water in the system and do damage. Common components that usually suffer from freeze breaks are sprinkler heads, PVC pipe, valves, and backflow devices.
Pricing
- Residential: $65.00 (Some areas and larger systems may cost more)
- Commercial: Call for quote
The Winterization Process
- Turn off the water supply to the sprinkler system.
- Drain the water from the mainline and lateral lines.
- Connect an air compressor to the blow-out port on the sprinkler system.
- Blow out the water from the mainline and lateral lines.
- Open each valve to allow the water to drain from the valve body.
- Close each valve after the water has drained.
- Turn off the controller and unplug it.
Benefits of Winterization
- Prolongs the life of the system
- Reduces the chance of freeze breaks
- Saves money on costly repairs