Winterizing

Winterizing the irrigation system is a sign of the end of the growing season. Blowing air through the system is a sure way to prevent freeze damage to the pipes and sprinkler heads. Even though we had some really cold temperatures recently, we are still ok to blow out now. Fortunately the weather is better this week, we are able to have every sprinkler pop up and accurately clean out the lines.

The recent snows helped insulate the ground as the surface is not yet frozen. Our mainline is 3 feet below the surface and can usually be under pressure year round. Our lateral lines are 18 inches below the surface and are susceptible to freeze damage.

When sending air through pipes the staff carefully watches each head to make sure the water is out of the lines. We will leave a small mist in the head because the plastic parts inside the head need some moisture to work correctly. Allowing all air to pass through the head can compromise it in other ways. The internal gears in the head can heat up and become warped and stop working correctly.

We spend more time in low spots and highly shaded areas. Those areas are most prone to winter damage.