Sprinkler System Blowout Protocol for Yearly Maintenance

Sprinkler System Blowout Protocol for Yearly Maintenance: Ensuring Longevity

Blowing out your sprinkler system annually is a crucial step in maintaining its health and longevity. This process is particularly vital before freezing temperatures set in to prevent potential damage caused by frozen water within the pipes or sprinkler heads. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

Gather Essential Tools

Before starting the blowout process, equip yourself with safety glasses or eye protection, a coupler (adaptor) and hose that fits your system, channel locks, a screwdriver, and an air compressor.

Locate and Shut Off Main Water Valve

Find the main water shut-off valve for your irrigation system and turn it off. Typically, this valve is located in the basement or a utility box near the water source.

Prepare the Backflow Preventer

Locate the above-ground backflow preventer. Open the test cocks and ball valves to release any trapped water. If applicable, remove the drain plugs.

Connect Air Compressor

Attach the air compressor hose to the blowout port on your irrigation system. Use an adjustable wrench to secure the connection tightly.

Set Compressor Pressure

Set the air compressor pressure to a safe and suitable level, usually between 50-80 psi. Refer to your irrigation system's manual for recommended pressure.

Start Blowing Out Zones

Begin with the zone farthest from the compressor. Manually open one of the zone valves and allow compressed air to blow out water from the sprinkler heads. Repeat for each zone, working your way back toward the compressor.

Monitor Pressure Gauge

Keep a close eye on the pressure gauge to ensure it stays within the recommended range. Adjust the compressor pressure as needed.

Complete Zone Blowouts

Go through each irrigation zone, opening the valves one at a time to ensure all water is expelled from the system.

Turn Off Compressor and Disconnect

Once all zones are blown out, turn off the air compressor and disconnect it from the irrigation system.

Open Drain Valves

Open drain valves on any low points in the system to remove residual water, preventing freezing damage during winter.

Inspect and Make Repairs

Inspect the system for any visible issues and make necessary repairs before winter.

Store Tools and Compressor

Store the air compressor and tools in a dry and safe place, ready for future use.

If you encounter any concerns, troubleshooting issues, or find yourself pressed for time during the winterization process, don’t hesitate to reach out to Everything Irrigation. We are committed to being an integral part of safeguarding your irrigation system and delivering you peace-of-mind before the onset of winter.

Types of Sprinklers

Standard Spray Nozzle

Continual fan of water emission
Nozzle restriction determines watering radius
Provides even coverage and a lower spray angle
Ideal for small lawns, plants, and ground cover

Rotary Nozzle

Narrow streamlet of water
Disperses water at a higher pressure and slower rate
Ideal for medium lawns, slopes, grades, and uneven ground

Gear Driven Rotary Head

Constant projection of water
Adjustable pattern
Distributes water evenly across the lawn
Ideal for medium and large lawns

Drip and Soaker Systems

Slow trickle of water droplets
Low volume watering method
Lightly irrigates the soil surrounding a plant
Waters the root zone directly
Ideal for gardens and planter beds

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Controller Issues

Ensure the sprinkler controller is powered on and connected.
Check for battery replacement needs.
Inspect the controller for damage.
Verify and calibrate device settings to your preference

Leaking Sprinkler

Identify and clean any dirt or debris obstructing the nozzle or filter
Replace damaged or worn-out sprinkler heads causing leaks.

Particular Zone Malfunction

Diagnose electrical issues, such as a defective controller, wiring
miscommunication, faulty solenoid, or damaged/blocked valve.

Broken Sprinkler Head

Look for cracks or blemishes on the head that could be affecting performance.
Replace old, worn-out heads or heads that have been damaged by freezing water,
lawn mowers, or other offenders.

Low Water Pressure

Investigate leaks or blockages in the system.
Check for damaged sprinkler heads, ruptured underground pipes, or blocked
valves.

Ineffective Head Height, Angle, and Placement

Address issues of heads being too high, too low, tilted, or improperly spaced.
Ensure each head reaches its intended area to avoid uneven watering coverage.

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Sprinkler System Blowout Protocol for Yearly Maintenance