When the winter season comes to an end, it’s important to get your sprinkler system ready for spring and summer months, ensuring that your lawn receives the water it needs. The process of preparing your sprinkler system for use after winter is known as dewinterizing. Here are step-by-step instructions to help you safely and effectively dewinterize your sprinkler system.
Step 1: Inspect the System
Before you start the dewinterization process, inspect all visible parts of your sprinkler system for any signs of damage, such as cracked pipes or broken sprinkler heads. Snow and freeze can cause unseen damage, so it’s important to do a thorough check. Replace any broken parts before proceeding.
Step 2: Gradually Open the Main Water Valve
The main water valve should be opened slowly to allow water to flow through the system gently. A rapid change in pressure can cause a water hammer—a shock wave caused by a sudden increase in water pressure—which can damage the sprinkler system. Turn the valve to the open position gradually, over the span of a few minutes.
Step 3: Check the Backflow Prevention Device
Your system should have a backflow prevention device to keep your water supply from becoming contaminated. Ensure that it is functioning properly by checking for any leaks or irregularities as you turn on the water.
Step 4: Flush Out the System
Once the main water valve is fully open, flush out each zone of your sprinkler system by manually opening the zone valves, one at a time. This allows water to push out any debris that could clog your sprinkler heads. Let each zone flush for a few minutes before moving to the next.
Step 5: Run Each Sprinkler Zone
Turn on each zone, one at a time, from the irrigation controller. Let each zone run for a couple of minutes. Observe the sprinkler heads for proper operation. This is also a good time to adjust the sprinkler heads to ensure proper coverage and to make sure they’re not spraying water onto sidewalks, driveways, or the house.
Step 6: Check for Leaks and Proper Operation
Walk through each zone while it is running and inspect for leaks, misaligned sprinkler heads, and proper pressure. If you find any issues, turn off the system and make the necessary repairs or adjustments.
Step 7: Reprogram the Irrigation Controller
Program your irrigation controller for the watering schedule appropriate for the current season. Be mindful of local watering restrictions and the needs of your lawn and garden, which may require less water in the spring compared to the hot summer months.
Step 8: Replace the Controller Battery
If your irrigation controller uses a backup battery, it’s a good practice to replace it at the start of the watering season. This ensures that your watering schedules are maintained during power outages.
Conclusion
Dewinterizing your sprinkler system requires careful attention to avoid damage and ensure efficient operation throughout the watering season. If you encounter any problems during the process or are unsure about any step, don’t hesitate to contact a professional. Regular maintenance can help prolong the life of your sprinkler system and help conserve water.
Remember, the timings for dewinterization vary depending on your local climate, so be sure to do it once there’s no risk of frost to prevent any damage to your system.