Living in a cold region of the United States requires proper sprinkler system maintenance to prevent frozen pipe damage and costly repairs. Without proper drainage, trapped water can expand and crack sprinkler pipes, valves, and backflow preventers, leading to serious system issues. Properly performing a drain sprinkler system process correctly helps prevent damage to the pipes, valves, and sprinkler heads caused by freezing water. Keep reading to learn more about the draining method professional lawn sprinkler companies use to drain sprinkler systems for winter.
How To Drain A Lawn Sprinkler System
Several methods are available to drain sprinkler systems, depending on the type of irrigation shut-off or drain valve installed by the setup team. Before draining, inspect the system to determine whether it has a manual drain valve, or automatic drain valve, or requires the blowout method for complete drainage. If you don’t know, contact a local sprinkler system company to find out which type of drain valve you have.
Typically, you’ll have a manual valve, ball valve, or automatic drain valve. However, some irrigation systems in cold climate irrigation zones may require blowing out to drain them completely.
Shut the Water Valve
Start with turning off the water supply to the system by turning off the main valve. You’ll find the water valve close to the water meter. If the irrigation system has backflow prevention valves, you’ll also need to shut it off to stop water flow. Make sure to check the water pressure in the system and it is at around 50 psi before proceeding.
Turn Off the Timer
If your irrigation system has an automated timer, set it to rain mode before draining. If you don’t have rain mode available, turn it off.
Manual Drain Valve
Systems with manual shut-off valves require opening the drain ports located at the lowest points in the system. This allows standing water to exit through sprinkler heads and underground pipes.
Open the manual drain valves in each zone to allow the water to drain completely from the sprinkler heads and pipes. For best results, leave the valves open for two or three days.
You’ll open the valves upstream of each zone to drain water from the primary irrigation line. Run one of the sprinkler heads to drain any remaining water in the system until it is fully drained. Ensure you actively monitor the remaining water and adjust the drainage time according to the current temperature in degrees Fahrenheit to guarantee the complete removal of all water.
Automatic Drain Valves
The pressure falls after closing the supply valve, and the water drains automatically. Open the irrigation drain cap between the backflow device and the main valve. This action eliminates any remaining trapped water from the pipes. Lift the sprinkler heads and drain any residual water.
Blowout Draining
The blowout draining method is best handled by a professional irrigation company. Do not try to DIY the blowout draining method unless you have experience installing and maintaining irrigation systems. A professional landscaper will use an air compressor to force compressed air into the system to blow out the remaining water.
If done incorrectly, this method can damage the equipment, and you might hurt yourself. Consult the manual before attempting any blowout. Many systems can’t handle high-pressure purging, especially if the pressure exceeds 80 pounds per square inch. Call a professional irrigation service in your area to address the problem for the best results and a service guarantee.
The Final Step in Winterizing Your Sprinkler System
Once drained, protect components by wrapping exposed sprinkler pipes, shut-off valves, and sprinkler heads with insulation tape or foam. Avoid blocking drain vents on backflow preventers, as this can interfere with proper winterization. Remove any remaining excess water, and always check air pressure settings before sealing the system for winter. With proper drainage and insulation, you won’t experience any damage to the system when the cold weather arrives. Also, ensure to drain the excess water and adjust the air pressure accordingly. With proper winter maintenance, the system will remain intact through the cold months.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Draining Your Sprinkler System
Leaving behind even a small amount of water increases the risk of frozen irrigation pipes. Some common errors include:
- Failing to shut off the main water valve
- Forgetting to drain the backflow preventer
- Using high-pressure air without a pressure regulator for irrigation
- Rushing the process and leaving water in underground sprinkler pipes
- Skipping sprinkler insulation after draining
Taking the time to follow proper steps ensures underground sprinkler winterization is done correctly, reducing the risk of costly repairs.
Getting Your Sprinkler System Ready
Once winter is over, inspect the sprinkler system components before restoring operation. Look for visible signs of damage such as cracked sprinkler heads, worn valves, or split pipes, which can occur due to freezing. Replacing any broken components early helps prevent system-wide failures during peak usage.
As you turn the water supply back on, do so gradually to avoid any pressure issues. Run the system through each zone, ensuring proper water distribution and identifying potential leaks, clogs, or uneven water coverage. This is a great time to make adjustments to your sprinkler heads if necessary, ensuring they’re aimed correctly. Lastly, don’t forget to reprogram your timer to match the changing weather and water usage requirements for the season.
To ensure your system is functioning safely and efficiently after a seasonal shutdown, consider working with professional lawn sprinkler experts in Omaha. These specialists can help you properly inspect, repair, and adjust your system—and confirm that your drain sprinkler system process was effective. Their expertise can save you time, reduce water waste, and prevent long-term damage.
FAQs
Why is it necessary to drain my sprinkler system?
Draining your sprinkler system is crucial, especially before winter or periods of prolonged non-use, to prevent water from freezing and causing damage to pipes, valves, and other components. Frozen water can expand and crack pipes, leading to costly repairs.
When is the best time to drain my irrigation system?
Ideally, you should drain your sprinkler system before the onset of freezing temperatures. In colder climates, this is typically done in late fall, while in milder climates, it can be done in early winter. Additionally, if you anticipate an extended period of non-use, such as during a drought or vacation, it’s advisable to drain the system then as well.
Professional Sprinkler System Services in Omaha
Pioneer Underground Lawn Sprinklers provides reliable sprinkler system blowout and winterization solutions in Omaha. Our team understands local climate patterns and uses proven freeze protection techniques to prepare your lawn irrigation for winter.
Local knowledge of Omaha’s freezing temperatures and irrigation system requirements ensures that services are tailored to the region’s needs. We offer both commercial and residential sprinkler system services, helping clients avoid system failures due to frozen pipes. With industry-best practices and tailored local service, we make winter prep simple and stress-free.
Pioneer Underground Lawn Sprinklers | Omaha’s Best Commercial & Residential Sprinkler Systems
Contact Pioneer Underground Lawn Sprinklers to schedule a free estimate on a system install or to find out what you can do to make your existing system more efficient. We welcome commercial and residential clients. And remember, whether you need our services now… or later in the season, Your Healthy Lawn is Our Passion and we are only a phone call away! Call 402-934-7900 to schedule your service.
