When winter approaches, you may be wondering how to blow out sprinklers for winter. You can perform this task using compressed air. Before winter sets in, you should thoroughly flush out your irrigation system. The purpose of a proper flush is to dry out the pipes. This step is also important to prevent damage caused by standing water. Read on for more information. Listed below are some tips for winterizing your sprinkler system.
Compressed air is used to blow out sprinklers
Blowing out sprinkler lines is a good way to prevent frozen water from breaking underground plastic pipes. Using compressed air is an easy way to get rid of standing water and maintain proper irrigation flow. Using pressurized air forces water through the pipes and out of spouts, clearing them of any standing water. Standing water can freeze in pipes and become unhealthy, so winterizing your irrigation system is important to protect it.
The air pressure used for blowing out sprinklers is much lower than water, so be sure to use proper safety equipment. Always use safety glasses and never stand over sprinklers while using compressed air. In addition, never operate the air compressor for more than a minute at a time, and never use compressed air at higher pressures than 50 psi. This can damage the pipe if too much air is sprayed.
Properly insulating above-ground parts of the system
To protect your sprinkler system from freezing, you must wrap the main shut-off valve with foam insulation tape or plastic bags. If your sprinkler system does not have a main shut-off valve, you should install one. Insulate above-ground piping with self-sticking foam insulation tape or insulating tubes. To keep your sprinkler system running efficiently during winter, you may want to install additional sensors to monitor water usage.
You can also hire a professional to do this for you. Generally, this is a once-a-year service, but it is important to protect the sprinkler system from freezing. Insulate the main shut-off valve and any exposed piping with insulation tape. Make sure that the backflow preventers do not have plugged drains. Once the main shut-off valve is insulated and covered, you can wrap any above-ground parts of the sprinkler system for winter.
Using an air compressor to clear outstanding water from sprinklers
Before winter sets in, use an air compressor to clear outstanding water from your sprinklers. This will ensure that your irrigation system continues to function properly. The pressurized air will force water through the pipes and clear standing water. Standing water can cause pipe damage if it freezes inside. You can easily clear it out by pushing the water out with the compressor. Just make sure not to fill up your compressor to the maximum capacity. Also, be sure not to release the air all at once. Instead, use lower pressure and a higher air volume so that the water will be safely cleared from the pipe.
If the water is standing higher than the sprinkler head, use compressed air to clear the water out. Air pressure can push water out through pipes without damaging the sprinklers. Remember to wear protective eyewear when you work near the sprinkler heads and lines. If you are working near the sprinkler heads or lines, use protective gear and be sure to disconnect the hose from the air compressor.
Importance of winterizing your sprinkler system
Winterizing your sprinkler system is essential for keeping your lawn and garden moist throughout the year. This simple process prevents damage to the system due to freezing and thawing. It will also keep the water lines from becoming frozen, which is a big risk during cold weather. A sprinkler maintenance professional in Omaha can do this for you. If you are unsure how to do it, here are some tips.
It is important to winterize your sprinkler system before the winter months begin, to prevent freezing and bursting of pipes. This process involves flushing the lines with a garden hose. Additionally, it involves turning off valves and setting ports to a 45-degree angle. By doing these tasks, you will be keeping your sprinkler system in tip-top shape for the coming spring. In addition to preventing damage to your sprinkler system, winterizing it will save you money on your water bill.