How To Blow Out Your Irrigation System: A Step-by-Step Guide

by Jhon Lennon 61 views

Hey guys! As the leaves start to turn and the temperatures drop, it’s time to think about winterizing your irrigation system. One of the most crucial steps in this process is blowing out your system to prevent pipes from freezing and bursting. Trust me, nobody wants to deal with that headache in the spring! This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to blow out your irrigation system properly, ensuring it's ready for the cold winter months. Let's dive in!

Why Blowing Out Your Irrigation System is Important

Before we get into the how-to, let's quickly cover the why. Leaving water in your irrigation system over the winter is a recipe for disaster. When water freezes, it expands, and that expansion can crack pipes, damage sprinkler heads, and even ruin valves. Repairing this kind of damage can be expensive and time-consuming, so taking the time to blow out your system is a worthwhile investment.

Think of it this way: water expands by about 9% when it freezes. That might not sound like much, but inside a closed pipe, that expansion creates immense pressure. This pressure can easily exceed the pipe's ability to withstand it, leading to cracks and breaks. In areas with particularly harsh winters, the freeze-thaw cycle can exacerbate the problem, as repeated freezing and thawing further weakens the system. A properly blown-out system, on the other hand, has minimal water left inside, significantly reducing the risk of freeze damage. This isn't just about saving money on repairs; it's also about protecting your landscape. A damaged irrigation system can lead to uneven watering in the spring, causing some areas to be overwatered while others are left dry. This can stress your plants and even lead to their demise. By taking the time to blow out your system, you're ensuring that it will be ready to provide efficient and reliable watering when the growing season returns.

Moreover, consider the time and effort involved in repairing a damaged system. Digging up buried pipes, replacing sprinkler heads, and troubleshooting valve issues can be a major hassle. It's much easier to spend an hour or two in the fall blowing out your system than to spend days or even weeks repairing it in the spring. Plus, if you're not comfortable doing the repairs yourself, you'll have to hire a professional, which can add to the cost. So, in essence, blowing out your irrigation system is a form of preventative maintenance that can save you time, money, and frustration in the long run. It's a simple task that can have a significant impact on the health and longevity of your irrigation system, ensuring that it continues to provide reliable and efficient watering for years to come.

Tools and Materials You'll Need

Okay, now that we're all on the same page about the importance of blowing out your system, let's gather the necessary tools and materials. Here’s what you’ll need:

  • Air Compressor: This is the most important tool. You'll need a compressor that can deliver enough CFM (cubic feet per minute) for your system. A general rule of thumb is to have at least 15-20 CFM for a residential system. Make sure your compressor has an adjustable pressure regulator.
  • Adaptor: You'll need an adaptor to connect your air compressor hose to your irrigation system. This is usually a quick-connect fitting that attaches to the system's backflow preventer or a designated blow-out port.
  • Safety Glasses: Protect your eyes from any debris that might come out of the sprinkler heads.
  • Wrench: You might need a wrench to tighten or loosen fittings.
  • Screwdriver: A screwdriver can be helpful for adjusting sprinkler heads or opening valves.

Important Safety Note: Always wear safety glasses when blowing out your irrigation system. Debris can be ejected from the sprinkler heads with considerable force, and you don't want anything getting in your eyes. Also, be mindful of the air pressure you're using. Never exceed the recommended pressure for your system, as this could damage the pipes and fittings. Check your system's specifications for the maximum allowable pressure, and always start with a lower pressure and gradually increase it as needed.

Choosing the right air compressor is crucial for a successful blow-out. A small pancake compressor might not have enough power to effectively clear all the water from your system. Consider the size of your system and the length of your longest zone when selecting a compressor. If you have a large system with multiple zones, you might need a more powerful compressor to get the job done efficiently. Also, pay attention to the duty cycle of the compressor. The duty cycle refers to the amount of time the compressor can run continuously before needing to cool down. If you have a lot of zones to blow out, you'll want a compressor with a high duty cycle to avoid having to stop and wait for it to cool down.

Before you start, it's also a good idea to inspect your irrigation system for any visible damage or leaks. This is a good time to address any issues before winter sets in. Check the sprinkler heads for cracks or breaks, and make sure the valves are functioning properly. If you notice any problems, make a note of them so you can repair them in the spring. Finally, gather all your tools and materials in one place so you're not running back and forth while you're working. A little preparation can go a long way in making the blow-out process smooth and efficient.

Step-by-Step Guide to Blowing Out Your System

Alright, let’s get down to business! Here's how to blow out your irrigation system step-by-step:

  1. Turn Off the Water Supply: Locate the main water supply valve for your irrigation system and turn it off. This is usually located near the backflow preventer or the water meter.
  2. Connect the Air Compressor: Attach the adaptor to your air compressor hose and connect it to the designated blow-out port on your irrigation system. This is often located on the backflow preventer.
  3. Adjust the Air Pressure: Set the air compressor's pressure regulator to the appropriate level. As a general guideline, start with around 40 PSI (pounds per square inch) for PVC pipes and 30 PSI for polyethylene pipes. Never exceed the manufacturer's recommended pressure for your system.
  4. Open the Zone Valves: Start with the zone that is farthest from the air compressor connection. Manually open the valve for that zone. If you have an automatic system, you can use the controller to activate each zone individually.
  5. Blow Out Each Zone: Once the valve is open, the air compressor will start pushing air through the pipes, forcing out any remaining water. Let the air run until only a fine mist is coming out of the sprinkler heads. This usually takes a few minutes per zone.
  6. Repeat for All Zones: Repeat steps 4 and 5 for each zone in your irrigation system, working your way from the farthest zone to the closest.
  7. Multiple Passes: For added insurance, you can repeat the blow-out process for each zone. This will help ensure that all the water is removed from the pipes.
  8. Disconnect the Air Compressor: Once you've blown out all the zones, disconnect the air compressor and remove the adaptor.
  9. Close Zone Valves: Ensure all zone valves are closed.

When blowing out each zone, pay close attention to the sprinkler heads. As the water is being forced out, you might see some debris or sediment coming out as well. This is normal, but it's important to make sure the sprinkler heads are clear of any obstructions. If a sprinkler head is clogged, it can prevent the water from being fully expelled from the pipe, increasing the risk of freeze damage. You can try cleaning the sprinkler head with a small brush or a stream of water from a hose. If the clog persists, you might need to replace the sprinkler head.

Also, be mindful of the air pressure. While it's important to use enough pressure to effectively clear the water from the pipes, using too much pressure can damage the system. Start with a lower pressure and gradually increase it as needed, but never exceed the manufacturer's recommended pressure. If you're unsure about the recommended pressure, consult the system's manual or contact a professional. Finally, take your time and be patient. Blowing out your irrigation system is not a race. It's better to take a little extra time and do it right than to rush through the process and risk damaging your system.

Additional Tips and Considerations

Here are a few extra tips to keep in mind when blowing out your irrigation system:

  • Backflow Preventer: If you have a backflow preventer, make sure to protect it from freezing. You can wrap it with insulation or remove it and store it indoors.
  • Automatic Drain Valves: Some systems have automatic drain valves that are designed to drain water from the pipes when the pressure drops. Check to see if your system has these valves and make sure they are functioning properly.
  • Professional Help: If you're not comfortable blowing out your system yourself, don't hesitate to call a professional. They have the experience and equipment to do the job safely and effectively.

Protecting your backflow preventer is crucial, as it's one of the most vulnerable components of your irrigation system. If your backflow preventer is located above ground, it's especially susceptible to freezing. You can wrap it with insulation, such as pipe insulation or a blanket, to help protect it from the cold. Make sure the insulation is securely fastened and covers the entire backflow preventer. Alternatively, you can remove the backflow preventer and store it indoors for the winter. This is the most effective way to protect it from freezing, but it requires disconnecting and reconnecting the device, which might require some plumbing knowledge.

If your system has automatic drain valves, check them periodically throughout the winter to make sure they are functioning properly. These valves are designed to automatically drain water from the pipes when the pressure drops below a certain level. This helps prevent water from freezing in the pipes and causing damage. If you notice that a drain valve is not working, you might need to clean it or replace it. Also, be aware that some automatic drain valves can be sensitive to debris and sediment, so it's a good idea to flush them out periodically.

Finally, don't be afraid to seek professional help if you're not comfortable blowing out your system yourself. A professional irrigation technician has the experience and equipment to do the job safely and effectively. They can also inspect your system for any potential problems and make recommendations for repairs or upgrades. While it might cost a little more to hire a professional, it can save you time, money, and frustration in the long run.

Conclusion

So there you have it! Blowing out your irrigation system is a straightforward process that can save you a lot of headaches (and money) in the long run. By following these steps and taking a few precautions, you can ensure that your system is ready for winter and will be up and running smoothly in the spring. Stay warm, and happy irrigating!

By taking the time to blow out your irrigation system properly, you're not only protecting your investment but also ensuring the health and vitality of your landscape. A well-maintained irrigation system is essential for providing efficient and reliable watering, which is crucial for the growth and survival of your plants. So, don't skimp on this important task. Make it a part of your fall routine, and you'll be rewarded with a beautiful and healthy landscape for years to come. Remember, a little preventative maintenance can go a long way in keeping your irrigation system in top condition and avoiding costly repairs.