I find it somewhat strange to be writing about this topic in the middle of Summer in August. But it was on my mind and I know this will be valid for the winters to come! Soon enough it will be time for your Sprinkler Blowout!
As the seasons change and temperatures drop, it’s crucial for homeowners with irrigation systems in Seattle to prepare for winter. Properly winterizing your irrigation system ensures its longevity and efficiency, protecting your investment from potential damage caused by freezing temperatures. This Irrigation Winterization in Seattle guide will help you understand the importance of winterization, how to determine if your system needs it, and whether you should tackle this task yourself or hire a professional. Contact Us if you need a professional!
Do I Need to Winterize my Irrigation System?
In Seattle, winter temperatures can fluctuate, occasionally dropping below freezing. While the city’s climate is milder compared to other regions, it’s still important to winterize your irrigation system. Freezing temperatures can cause water left in the pipes to expand, leading to cracks and burst pipes, which can result in costly repairs.
How do I Determine if I Need a Sprinkler Blowout?
To determine if your irrigation system needs winterization, consider the following:
Climate:
If you expect temperatures to drop below freezing, winterization is necessary. While we have mild temperatures in Seattle, it does freeze and fortunately our cold season is also wet enough where the irrigation system is not typically needed.
System Type:
All types of irrigation systems, including drip and spray, require winterization to prevent damage. The one caveat is that some of the simplest irrigation systems do not have a blowout valve specifically designed to be winterized. Generally, these are simple drip systems that are screwed onto a hose bib. They still need to be winterized but it is a simpler progress.
Exposure:
Systems with pipes above ground or near the surface are more susceptible to freezing and should definitely be winterized.
What if I Don’t Blowout My Sprinkler System?
Failing to winterize your irrigation system can lead to several problems:
Pipe Damage:
Freezing water can cause pipes to crack or burst, leading to expensive repairs.
Sprinkler Head Damage:
Ice can damage sprinkler heads, rendering them ineffective.
Backflow Preventer Damage:
The backflow preventer, which is crucial for keeping your water supply safe, can be damaged by freezing temperatures.
What Happens if I Winterize My System Wrong?
Incorrect winterization can cause significant damage. This includes all of those listed in the question above, but let me highlight a few more aspects here:
Incomplete Draining:
Leaving water in the system can lead to freezing and bursting pipes.
Over-Pressurization:
Using too much air pressure in the blowout method can damage pipes and fittings.
Expensive Repairs:
Failing to winterize an irrigation system properly can result in expensive repairs due to broken components. Freezing and expanding water easily breaks heads, nozzles, valves, pipes, and backflow preventers. Worst-case scenarios cause water damage in the house.
Expensive Water Bills:
Failing to winterize an irrigation system properly can lead to expensive water bills. This can happen in the following spring if not discovered during the Spring Start-Up or depending on where the break is this could cause a continual leak during the winter.
Wasted Water:
Along with Expensive Water Bills there is actual fresh water waste that accompanies the expensive bill. Conservation is key for any irrigation system proper irrigation maintenance prevents that waste.
How to Winterize an Irrigation System:
Winterizing your irrigation system involves several steps:
- Shut Off the Water Supply: Turn off the main water supply to the irrigation system.
- Drain the System: Remove any water from the pipes to prevent freezing. This requires an air compressor to blowout the irrigation system with compressed air. Drip zones should have release valves at the end of each zone, those should be opened.
- Insulate: Protect above-ground components. If your system is professionally installed all major components like backflow preventers and valves will be underground. The only component that may be above ground is if you have a point of connection at a hose bib, given the small lots and density of hardscapes, there are systems with the point of connection above ground.
- Check the Controller: Turn off the irrigation controller or set it to “rain mode” to prevent it from running during the winter.
Should I Winterize My Irrigation Myself or Work with a Professional?
While some homeowners may feel comfortable winterizing their irrigation systems, working with a professional has several advantages:
Expertise:
Professionals have the knowledge and experience to properly winterize your system, reducing the risk of damage.
Equipment:
Professionals have access to the right tools, such as high-capacity air compressors for blowout methods.
Peace of Mind:
Hiring a professional ensures the job is done correctly, allowing you to avoid costly repairs and enjoy a worry-free winter.
Conclusion: Irrigation Winterization In Seattle. Sprinkler Blowouts!
Winterizing your irrigation system is an essential task for Seattle homeowners to protect their investment and ensure the longevity of their irrigation systems. While it’s possible to do it yourself, the benefits of working with a professional are clear. Professionals bring expertise, proper equipment, and peace of mind, ensuring that your system is properly prepared for winter. By hiring a professional, you can rest easy knowing that your irrigation system will be ready to go when spring arrives, saving you time, money, and stress in the long run. Contact us today for your Irrigation Winterization in Seattle! Reach out for your Sprinkler Blowout! Contact Us for more information!
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