In many parts of the U.S., it’s time for irrigation winterization, commonly known as blowouts. Winterization is an important practice to ensure that your client’s irrigation systems stay in tact for the spring, instead of suffering damage from winter freezing and thawing cycles.
1. Start with the right equipment. Successful irrigation system winterization begins with the proper equipment—an air compressor with a rating of 80-100 cubic feet-per-minute for any mainline that is two inches or less.
2. Tap the proper point of connection. Do not conduct your blowout winterization procedure through the backflow preventer (a practice that is discouraged by all backflow device manufacturers). Instead, use a PVC saddle on the mainline, and a tee for poly.
3. Begin with the end. When you start the blowout, I always recommend starting with the furthest zone, and working back toward the compressor. You can usually get through each zone in a couple of minutes. You should never exceed 80 psi in PVC pipe and 50 psi in poly systems.
4. Drain and done. Once you get through all the zones, drain the backflow, leave the valves on the backflow at a 45-degree angle, turn the controller to “off”, and you’re done.
5. Phone a friend. If you have any questions on winterizing irrigation systems, give your local Ewing branch a call.