Winterize Your Rain Bird Sprinkler System in 5 Easy Steps: Shield Your Lawn from the Cold
What To Know
- Use a sprinkler head wrench to unscrew the sprinkler heads from the risers.
- Open the sprinkler valves one at a time and blow out the water until only air comes out.
- A backflow preventer is a device that prevents water from flowing back into the main water supply from the sprinkler system.
As the cold weather approaches, it’s crucial to winterize your Rain Bird sprinkler system to prevent costly damage from freezing temperatures. This comprehensive guide will provide you with step-by-step instructions on how to winterize your sprinkler system efficiently and effectively.
Step 1: Shut Off the Water Supply
- Locate the main water shut-off valve, typically near the curb or in the basement.
- Turn the valve clockwise to close it completely.
Step 2: Open the Drain Valve
- Open the drain valve located at the lowest point of the sprinkler system.
- Allow all the water to drain out of the system.
Step 3: Disconnect the Sprinkler Heads
- Use a sprinkler head wrench to unscrew the sprinkler heads from the risers.
- Store the sprinkler heads in a safe and dry place.
Step 4: Blow Out the Sprinkler Lines
- Connect an air compressor to the blow-out port on the backflow preventer.
- Set the air pressure to 25-30 PSI.
- Open the sprinkler valves one at a time and blow out the water until only air comes out.
Step 5: Lubricate the Valves
- Remove the solenoid covers from the sprinkler valves.
- Apply a small amount of silicone lubricant to the valve stem and diaphragm.
- Reinstall the solenoid covers.
Step 6: Install Test Plugs
- Insert test plugs into the open sprinkler valve ports.
- This will prevent air from escaping and ensure that the system is fully pressurized.
Step 7: Store the System
- Drain any remaining water from the backflow preventer and air compressor.
- Store the backflow preventer and air compressor in a dry and frost-free location.
Additional Tips
- If possible, winterize your sprinkler system on a warm day to prevent freezing.
- Use a high-quality air compressor with a large tank capacity.
- Blow out the sprinkler lines thoroughly to remove all the water.
- Check the sprinkler heads for any damage or leaks before reinstalling them.
Troubleshooting
- Water is still coming out of the sprinkler heads: Ensure that the water supply is completely shut off and that the drain valve is fully open.
- Air is not coming out of the sprinkler lines: Check that the air compressor is connected to the blow-out port and that the pressure is set correctly.
- The sprinkler valves are not closing properly: Lubricate the valve stems and diaphragms and ensure that the test plugs are installed securely.
Wrap Up
By following these steps, you can effectively winterize your Rain Bird sprinkler system and protect it from the damaging effects of freezing temperatures. Remember to perform these steps annually to ensure the longevity and efficiency of your sprinkler system.
Answers to Your Most Common Questions
Q: Why is it important to winterize my sprinkler system?
A: Winterizing your sprinkler system prevents water from freezing in the pipes and valves, which can cause costly damage.
Q: How often should I winterize my sprinkler system?
A: You should winterize your sprinkler system annually before the first hard freeze.
Q: What is a backflow preventer?
A: A backflow preventer is a device that prevents water from flowing back into the main water supply from the sprinkler system.
