How to Winterize Your Irrigation System in September

As September rolls in , it ’s time to start call back about winterise your irrigation organisation . I know , it might not be the most glamourous horticulture project , but trust me — take the prison term to do it right now can salvage you a lot of headaches and expensive hangout add up spring ! It ’s such a bummer to turn on your irrigation system after a retentive winter , only to bump out that frozen pipes or break in valves have bring mayhem . But do n’t concern , I ’ve contract you cover with some simple stair that will keep your system secure and vocalise through the cold months .

I totally get it — winterizing can find like a daunting job , especially when you ’re trying to squeeze it in between all the other fall garden task . But imagine of it as a style to protect your investment and check that your garden detain healthy and hydrous for years to come . So , grab your gloves , put on that preferent old jacket , and let ’s get start out on winterize your irrigation system like a pro !

Shut Off the Water Supply

The first gradation in winterize your irrigation organization is to shut off the water system supplying . This might seem like a no - brainer , but it ’s an substantive step that ensures no water is left in the tube to freeze and extend , which can cause fissure or bursts . Most systems have a main shutoff valve located near where the body of water note enters your house or garden . Turn it off all and , if potential , close up any secondary valve that go to out-of-door faucets .

This footprint is also a corking opportunity to check the condition of your shutoff valve . If it ’s previous or rusty , study replacing it to forbid leaks or malfunctions . I ’ve been there — I get laid how frustrating it is to expose a incorrect valve right when you need it most ! A fresh valve is a little investment that can save you from a lot of trouble down the road , and it ’s always better to be prepared for those frosty wintertime months .

Drain the System

Once the H2O supply is keep out off , it ’s prison term to drain the scheme . This step is crucial because even a minor amount of water entrust in the pipes can freeze out , cause them to crack or explode . Depending on your system , you might have to manually open each valve to let the water drain out . instead , some systems are equipped with reflexive drain valves that open when the weewee insistency cast . If you have one of these , just verify it ’s working correctly .

you may also apply squeeze air to blow out any remaining water in the pipes . This is particularly useful for sprinkler systems where water might get trapped in the brain or underground lines . Just be careful not to over - pressurize the system — use a compressor with a press gage and keep it below the recommended pounds per square inch for your scheme . Trust me , there ’s nothing like the peace of idea that comes from knowing your pipes are juiceless and safe from freeze harm !

Insulate Exposed Pipes and Valves

Next , it ’s clip to insulate any exposed pipes , valves , or backflow preventers . These are the most vulnerable share of your irrigation organization when the temperatures swing . Use froth pipe insulant , rut tapeline , or insulation tape to wrap these exposed areas exhaustively . This add together layer of protection helps keep them from freezing , which is especially of import if your system has any components that are above ground or near the surface .

Insulating your organ pipe is also a cracking elbow room to attract a spot of redundant wildlife to your garden . Believe it or not , isolate pipe can allow a bit of warmth , attracting small creatures like insects or even beneficial critter like ladybug , which are outstanding for maintain pestilence population down . Plus , it adds an extra stratum of security against the cold , so your irrigation system stays protected all winter long .

Check and Clean Sprinkler Heads

Do n’t draw a blank about the sprinkler heads ! Before wintertime sets in , take the time to tally and clean each one . Remove any dirt , debris , or leaves that might have accumulated around them . This is a majuscule chance to inspect them for any signs of wear or damage , such as crevice or leaks . Damaged sprinkler heads can be a major source of water red ink and inefficiency in your system , so replace any that look wear thin out .

Cleaning your sprinkler question also ensures that they ’re quick to go when you turn your system back on in the springiness . Plus , clearing away debris can help thin the chances of pests like slug or snail retrieve a cosy winter abode in your sprinkler head ! I lie with how frustrating it is to address with pests in unexpected places , so a little extra attempt now can save you from headache later .

Protect the Backflow Preventer

The backflowing preventer is one of the most critical components of your irrigation system , and it needs particular tending when winterizing . This gimmick prevent foul water from flowing back into your imbibition pee supplying , so it ’s crucial to keep it in good condition . Start by drain any water from the backflow preventer and then wrap it with insulating material , like froth or a specialized cover design for this purpose .

If your backflowing preventer is above ground , view adding an extra layer of insulation or even cut across it with a gunny sack for added protection . I ’ve learned the hard way how costly it can be to replace a damage backflow preventer , so it ’s worth the extra time to protect it properly . Plus , keeping this machine in unspoiled shape ensures that your garden remains safe and healthy all year round .

Test and Store the Controller

If your irrigation organization has a controller , now is the clock time to give it a bit of TLC . Test the restrainer to verify it ’s work properly , and replace any battery if want . Then , correct the restrainer to “ off ” or “ pelting mode ” to preclude it from set off the system of rules during the winter month . If your control is outdoors , deliberate removing it and put in it indoors where it will be secure from freezing temperatures .

Taking charge of your controller also help protect the wiring and connections , which are often prime nesting spot for small insects or even gnawer . Trust me , I ’ve had more than a few surprises when checking my garden equipment after a long wintertime ! Storing the controller indoors or in a dry , protected blank can help preclude these unwanted guests from earn a base in your organisation .

Schedule a Professional Inspection

While you ’re at it , why not schedule a professional inspection of your irrigation system ? A certified irrigation specialist can check for any hidden issues that might cause problems over the wintertime , like leak , crack , or geta . They can also check that everything is right winterise and provide tips for maintenance and attention specific to your organisation .

I know it can feel like an supererogatory expense , but trust me , it ’s worth it for the peace of mind . After all , it ’s such a bummer to unwrap a dear problem in the spring that could have been easily prevent . Plus , a professional can help identify any potential weakness or country of concern you might not notice on your own . It ’s a small investment funds that can make unnecessary you a spate of money — and stress — down the line !