How to Winterize a Sprinkler System

Homeowners know the importance of winterizing their plumbing systems, but many forget about their sprinkler systems. Unfortunately, this can lead to leaks and damage requiring an irrigation company that can perform a professional repair or replacement. If you want to keep your lawn sprinklers in excellent shape long-term, winterizing needs to be a priority. At Atlanta Irrigation Company, we provide high-quality lawn care services for metro Atlanta, Georgia, area customers. While hiring a qualified irrigation installer is necessary for replacing, installing, and repairing sprinklers, the property owner can often perform winterizing. Read below for helpful tips if you’re unsure how to protect your sprinkler system from freezing temperatures.

Collect the Right Tools for the Task

The first step is to make sure you are prepared with the correct tools and supplies. Here is a list of the things you’ll need to have nearby:

• Pliers
• Screwdriver
• Bowl
• Air Compressor
• Water Meter Key (if your valve is inside a valve box)

Steps of Winterizing Your Lawn Sprinklers

• Step One: Check the sprinkler system for signs of damage. Replace broken heads and look for leaks.
• Step Two: Locate your shutoff valve, which should be either in your basement or garage or in an outdoor valve box buried in the ground. If your valve is located inside a box, you will need the key. Once you’ve found the valve, you’ll need to shut off the water supply to your property.
• Step Three: Open up the irrigation valves to get rid of the water left inside the system. This should help you avoid a pressure buildup.
• Step Four: Locate the backflow preventer and give it a quarter turn with your screwdriver. This should release any excess water. The ball valves can be left halfway open over the winter, which will reduce the amount of trapped water inside the backflow preventer.
• Step Five: Remove the water inside your irrigation system with an air compressor. It is important to keep in mind that the commercially available air compressors may not have the required psi capabilities needed to get rid of the water.
• Step Six: Wrap your above-ground pipes with foam insulation.
• Step Seven: Turn off the control panel if you have an automated sprinkler system to ensure it doesn’t accidentally turn back on due to settings.

When to Call a Professional

If you feel uncomfortable with the process of turning off your water supply, you cannot locate the valves, or you’re afraid that your air compressor won’t be powerful enough to blow out your irrigation system, then you can get help from a professional. An irrigation expert who is trained to winterize lawn sprinklers will have the experience and tools needed for the job.

Looking for an Irrigation Company in Atlanta Who Can Help? Call Our Team Today

Did you discover problems with your sprinkler system while attempting to winterize it? Do you need the services of a professional irrigation installer to keep your lawn looking its best? If so, then it’s important to hire a irrigation company that will put your needs first. Call the professionals at Atlanta Irrigation Company to discuss your needs.