Irrigation Blow Out

Winterizing Your Sprinkler System

How to Make Sure Your Pipes Don’t Freeze and Burst This Winter.

*Irrigation blow outs can be dangerous if not done properly. The force due to the pressure can cause injury, so we advise you hire a professional company. Imperial Landscaping and Masonry provides this professional service along with other Irrigation System services and full system installations. If this article is too complicated for your liking, give Imperial Landscaping and Masonry a call 508-241-1888 or visit our website. www.imperiallm.com Get the professional advantage and guarantee that you and your home deserve.

Step 1: Shut off your water supply to your irrigation system. The main shut off valve needs to be protected from freezing temperatures. Take extra steps by wrapping it up with insulation. We recommend foam insulation tape and a plastic bag to help keep the pipes insulated and protected from frigid weather. Additional above ground pipes should also be protected against the harsh winter. Self sticking foam insulation tape or tubes work well. If you do not have a main shut off valve, we recommend having one installed for preventative measures.

Step 2: Manually drain the water from your system. In order to do this you must make sure to reduce the pressure flowing through the system’s irrigation pipes. You can catch the water that releases with a large bucket. Also, the water may spurt out so be prepared to get wet!

Step 3: If you don’t already have an air compressor, you can rent one from your local equipment rental yard. Charge the compressor and check that it is up to 60 pounds per square inch. Most compressors charge up to 120 psi but make sure to keep it at 60.

Step 4: After the compressor is off, attach it to the hose bib. Many times the compressor and the hose bib fittings do not match up so you may have to get creative in order to attach it securely.

Step 5: Now you can turn on the compressor. Start with the zone furthest from you and then work your way closer from zone to zone. Keep each sprinkler on for about two minutes per zone. When the water turn from mist to air you can move on to the next zone.

Tip: Sometimes debris can go flying. We recommend wearing protective glasses when blowing out your irrigation system.