As winter sets in, it’s time to start preparing the irrigation system. Many of these systems include centrifugal irrigation pumps, which require special care to avoid costly damage from freezing temperatures.
Proper winterization is essential to protect your investment and ensure smooth operations when spring arrives. Whether you're a seasoned pro or new to irrigation system maintenance, these steps will help you winterize pumps effectively.
Step-by-Step Guide to Winterize Centrifugal Irrigation Pumps
- Turn Off Power to the Pump
The first step in winterizing a pump is to shut off its power. Typically, this is done at a breaker or the pump relay. The irrigation controller should remain active to operate valves for system blowouts, but the pump itself must stay off.
- Remove and Store the Suction Line
Disconnect the suction line and take it out of the water source, such as a lake or pond. Remove the intake filter, clean it thoroughly, and store it safely for the winter.
- Disconnect Monitoring Devices
Components like transducers, temperature sensors, and pressure sensors must be disconnected. At a minimum, remove all water from these devices, and store them in a location where they won’t freeze.
Additionally, disconnect the pump from the discharge line to isolate it for blowout winterization. (Important: Never perform a blowout through the pump itself!)
- Drain the Pump Case
Open both the top and bottom drain valves on the pump to remove all water from the impeller chamber.
- Seal the Drains
Once the pump case is empty, close all drain valves to secure the system.
- Preserve the Pump with Winterization Fluid
To prevent internal damage, fill the pump case with a specialized fluid like Munro Freeze Defeat Winterization Fluid. Add the fluid until it’s just past the eye of the impeller.
Why Use Munro Freeze Defeat?
Munro Freeze Defeat offers reliable protection for centrifugal pumps:
- Prevents freezing damage.
- Guards against rust and corrosion.
- Keeps bearings and seals from drying out or seizing.
- Ensures pump functionality in spring, even in temperatures as low as -25°F.
Need Help with Other Pumps?
Winterizing other types of pumps or pump stations may require additional steps. If you have questions, call the Ewing Pump Hotline at 1-844-PUMP-PRO for expert guidance.
Taking the time to winterize your irrigation pump properly ensures it will be ready to perform efficiently when the warmer months return. Don’t skip these critical steps—protect your equipment and avoid unnecessary expenses!
