When should I winterize my sprinkler system?
The climate of Colorado can be unpredictable, and the winters can go from frigid to comfy to snowy to everything in between. Making sure your sprinkler system doesn’t freeze up is a concern for many homeowners, and getting them blown out at the right time can maintain the proper operation and ensure longevity for your sprinkler system.
If you possess the knowhow and proper equipment and tools, you can winterize your sprinkler system on your own. However, most people prefer to have a sprinkler company in Highlands Ranch perform the service to make sure everything is done efficiently and thoroughly.
What is the Winterization Process?
Winterizing your sprinkler system consists of blowing out the entirety of the system to rid all of the water from the irrigation components. In Colorado, this is generally best done around October, when the temperatures are still pretty mild. Even if there have been some cold temperatures, it’s still not too late, but should be done quickly. Once there has been an extended period of freezing temps, that’s when real damage can be done to your system.
Not all irrigation or sprinkler systems are created the same, so it’s important to know all of the components that are involved. Generally speaking, you’ll have to use an air compressor to blow out all of the moisture through all of the components – and repeat the process for every zone that comprises your system. If you’re uncomfortable doing this yourself, make sure to hire a knowledgeable sprinkler company in Highlands Ranch to perform this task. Making sure they know how your particular system operates will ensure that it’s cleared properly to avoid freezing damage.
What’s the Risk of Not Winterizing?
Forgetting to winterize your sprinklers can cause damage throughout your irrigation system. The water currently in the system can freeze in the irrigation valves, water pipes, and sprinkler heads. Because water expands when it freezes, this can compromise the integrity of each of these components. In extreme cases, this can cause these parts to burst, which will cause your system to work improperly, or not work at all.
If you forget to winterize your system after a freeze, it’s important to not leave the system unattended. Frozen or broken pipes can lead to serious damage to your landscaping or your home. These broken components can lead to water leaks, moisture, or mold. A trusted sprinkler company can help undo some of these problems, and help determine how extensive the damage is to your system.
What if the Weather Gets Nice Again?
If there are other trees and shrubs on your property, it’s important to periodically water them throughout the winter. This is particularly important if some of those warmer surges that Colorado is known for pop up during the winter months. You can manually water these plants to keep them from drying out during those warmer stretches.
Winterizing is generally a quick and easy process, and professionals can make sure that it’s done right. By taking the proper steps, you can protect your irrigation system from damage. For more information, reach out to the experts at Omni Landscape & Sprinkler today.
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