Winter is coming, and it's time to think about winterizing your irrigation system. You've invested time and money into your landscape, so it's critical to protect that investment. Freezing temperatures can cause thousands of dollars in damage. At A Cut Above Landscape, we are experts in providing professional sprinkler blowout services, and we stand by our work with a Freeze-Free Guarantee. Below are 10 essentials to know when scheduling your sprinkler blowout to prepare for the winter months.
1. Timing is Everything
Timing your sprinkler blowout is crucial. Ideally, you want to winterize your irrigation system before the temperatures consistently fall below 32°F. Doing this will prevent water inside the pipes from freezing and causing costly damage.
2. Gravity Drain
If we experience a hard freeze without your system being winterized, Don't Panic! Follow the steps outlined in our Gravity Drain instructions (linked here). This will help mitigate freeze damage until your ACA Irrigation Pro can fully winterize your system.
3. Choose a Provider With a Pressure Regulator
A pressure regulator ensures that the air pressure used during the blowout does not exceed 80 pounds. Excessive pressure can damage the sprinkler heads and connecting pieces. Always ask if the company has a pressure regulator on their air compressor.
4. Inquire About Brand Familiarity
Different brands of backflow devices and sprinkler system controllers have different needs and specifications. Ensure your chosen company is familiar with your specific brands to avoid complications.
5. Check for Drainage Procedures
If your irrigation system is connected to your basement, you'll want to make sure that the pipes are properly drained to prevent freezing and potential flooding. Always confirm this aspect with your provider.
6. Always be in the Loop with your Appointment Time
At ACA, you'll get a morning or afternoon time slot. Once your stop gets routed, you'll get an even more narrow time window 24 hours before your appointment, and a "Your Next" text message to let you know when the crew is en route to your property. At this point, you can track your crew's live location on a map online.
7. Repairs and Maintenance
Always choose a provider who can repair your system in addition to blowing it out. If an issue arises during winterization or later, it's advantageous to have a company that can manage these situations.
8. Ask About the Blowout Process
The typical process for blowout usually takes 15–20 minutes, depending on the number of zones. Ensure you're familiar with what the service entails, from shutting off the water supply to sealing off the water lines after the blowout.
9. Monitor Pressure Levels
Residential and small commercial irrigation systems generally can't sustain more than 40–60 psi. The right provider will be aware of this and use a suitable air compressor with a pressure regulator.
10. Post-Blowout Checks
Finally, make periodic checks near the sprinkler shutoff valve throughout the winter to ensure that no water is entering or exiting the system, as stipulated in our Freeze-Free Guarantee.
The Freeze-Free Guarantee by A Cut Above Landscape
We stand by our commitment to quality and offer a Freeze Free Guarantee with specific conditions and limitations. Make sure to review these terms carefully to maintain the validity of your warranty.
In summary, proper winterization is crucial to avoid unpleasant surprises in spring. We at A Cut Above Landscape are committed to ensuring your irrigation system is prepared for the winter months. If you have any concerns or questions regarding your system, please get in touch with us immediately.
For more information on scheduling your sprinkler blowout, contact your ACA Landscape Today!