As colder evenings approach in Colorado, it’s important to take the proper measures to winterize your lawn sprinklers. Doing so ensures that any leftover water in these systems doesn’t freeze and damage the pipes or sprinkler heads.
XBut at what temperature does the water actually start to freeze? Keep reading to learn more about sprinkler freezing issues, winterizing tips, and sprinkler blowout in Denver.
Denver Sprinkler Winterization
Although the point of any water freeze is 32 degrees Fahrenheit, which does put your sprinklers at risk, it takes a sustained hard freeze to truly affect your sprinkler system. A hard freeze is considered around 28 degrees Fahrenheit. This type of weather typically occurs in the evening hours as early as late September to mid-October, depending on your location in Colorado.
Keep an eye on the forecast, and if you notice a chilly evening headed your way, it’s time for sprinkler winterization efforts. Occasionally, a below-freezing evening is known to sneak up on homeowners in some parts of the state (especially at higher elevations). For those who might need to avoid a quick freeze – keep reading.
How to Avoid a Quick Freeze
Luckily, you can do a quick-drain of your sprinkler system prior to the first heavy freeze. This doesn’t mean you should skip your regular sprinkler blowout afterwards. A full system blowout is important to ensure that all leftover water is removed from the system to avoid damage. A quick-drain can leave your system susceptible to further damage if not blown out completely, but it can help mitigate issues for an unexpected freeze.
- Locate the vacuum breaker and backflow prevention device of the sprinkler system, typically installed somewhere outside your home or garage. Locate the valve that links the main line of the sprinkler and the backflow prevention device. Turn this valve to ‘OFF’.
- Next, locate the sprinkler’s main shut-off valve and turn it off. This is typically located in or around the basement.
- You will then need to drain the system by opening the inlet drain valve. This is usually located between the main shut-off valve pipe and the backflow prevention device valve. You may need to place a bucket underneath to catch excess water depending on the location.
- Leave all valves turned at a 45-degree angle. If any water is leftover, it will freeze and expand, but this prevents it from cracking the valves.
When to Hire a Professional
Performing a full sprinkler system blowout and winterizing your system every year is time consuming. Not only that, but if freeze damage does occur to your sprinkler system, it could cost even more to repair or replace. Professional sprinkler blowouts are an affordable, worthwhile investment for any Denver homeowner.
Before the colder weather arrives, consider sprinkler winterization from a premiere landscaping company with personalized experience. Contact Omnissal for your sprinkler blowout and winterization needs.
