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Gravity Drain

Written by Marty McTime | Aug 18, 2023 8:12:09 PM

Protect Your Sprinkler System from Freezing Temperatures

 ACA Landscape's Sprinkler Winterization Guide

Greetings from ACA Landscape, your trusted partner in all things green and growing! As the Colorado weather begins to turn and we approach the cooler months, we’re here to ensure you're ahead of the game when protecting your sprinkler system.

 



Fall in our beautiful state means delightful days of warmth and sun, contrasted by chilling nights that can dip into freezing temperatures. It’s a time of picturesque beauty and a time to be vigilant. The first hard freeze usually hits Denver in the first week of October, and that's why winterizing your sprinkler system isn't just smart; it's essential.

Worried About an Unexpected Freeze?
If you've got an appointment with our ACA irrigation technicians but are worried about a freeze before your scheduled time, we've got you covered. You don’t have to be a professional to prevent damage from those sneaky cold snaps.

Here are five quick steps to help you ward off that costly freeze damage in less than 15 minutes:

Step 1: Shut It Off
Turn off the sprinkler shutoff valve in your basement or crawlspace. For our friends in Commerce City and Henderson, it might be near the water meter and under a small metal lid known as a curb stop.

Step 2: Handle the Backflow Preventer
Located on the side of the house, turn its handles and screw ports 45 degrees. If there's a drain cap, remove it to allow a bit of water to exit.

Step 3: Drain It Out
Back at the shutoff valve, find the small drain or bleeder cap. A bucket will catch the gravity-drained water. Unscrew the cap; most water should drain within 5-10 minutes.

Step 4: Wrap It Up
Some of our savvy customers choose to wrap the backflow prevention device with towels or insulation. If you do, cover these with something waterproof, like a thick trash bag.

Step 5: Get Scheduled
If you haven’t already, schedule your winterization appointment with us here on our online scheduler.

Keep in mind this is a TEMPORARY SOLUTION*. Our ACA irrigation technicians will ensure your sprinkler system is fully winterized, safeguarding it against prolonged freezing winter weather.

*NOTE: ACA Landscape is not responsible for freeze damage that results from freezing temperatures on work NOT performed by ACA irrigation experts as we cannot certify the work was done correctly. 

These instructions on how to perform a Gravity Drain are given as a courtesy to give your sprinkler system a REDUCED CHANCE of water expansion caused by freezing temperatures that can cause damage to pipes. Perform at your own risk.*

Wrapping Up
Colorado’s rapid temperature swings can be a menace to unprepared sprinkler systems. But with ACA Landscape by your side and these quick fixes, you can rest easy knowing you’ve taken a proactive stance against costly freeze damage.

For more details and personalized care, schedule your sprinkler winterization service with us or visit acalandscape.com/irrigation. Together, we’ll help you keep your landscape systems healthy and intact, regardless of Colorado’s weather.

Additionally, we'd encourage you to learn more about our Winterization Warranty and why ACA stands behind our work and remains a cut above the rest.

Stay green, and stay prepared with ACA Landscape. We're your landscape partner in all seasons.