Winter is coming, and while Jon Snow might be worried about White Walkers, you should probably be more concerned about your irrigation system and hoses.  For home and business owners alike, this season can wreak havoc on your irrigation setup if it’s not properly winterized.  Keep reading to discover why winterizing is so important, when to do it, and how to make sure your irrigation system and hoses are ready for the colder months ahead.

Why You Need to Winterize Your Irrigation Systems

Did you know that improperly winterized irrigation systems can lead to burst pipes and costly repairs? According to data, these repairs can range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars. That’s a hefty price to pay for something that can be easily avoided.  Just imagine waking up one winter morning to find a burst pipe flooding your property. Not only does this disrupt your daily operations, but it also results in expensive emergency repairs.  Winterizing your system helps you avoid frozen pipes, burst valves, and damaged sprinkler heads. By taking the time to winterize now, you'll save yourself from these common winter woes and make sure your system is in top shape come spring.

When Should You Winterize Your Irrigation Systems?

Picture this: it's early November, and the weather forecast predicts a hard freeze in the next few days. You haven't winterized your irrigation system yet, and panic sets in. Timing is everything. The best time to winterize your irrigation system is before the first hard freeze of the season. For most regions, this is usually late October to early November.  However, there’s really no one-size-fits-all. You need to keep an eye on the weather forecast and plan accordingly. If you're late to the game, don't worry. It's better to winterize late than not at all. Even if you're running a bit behind schedule, taking the time to winterize can still save you from potential disasters. Just remember, earlier is always better, as it gives you ample time to address any issues that may arise during the process.

What Does Winterizing an Irrigation System Involve?

One of the most important techniques for winterizing is the “blowout” method. This involves using compressed air to remove all the water from the irrigation pipes.  Most residential and small commercial irrigation systems can't handle more than 40-60 psi. Using a portable air compressor that exceeds this can cause damage.  Always use a pressure regulator after the service valve to keep the pressure within safe limits. This makes sure that the air pressure is just right for expelling water without causing any harm to your system. Then, here are the steps to follow:

1. Shut off the main water supply to the system. This prevents any new water from entering the pipes during the blowout process.
2. Attach the air compressor to the blowout port. This is where you'll introduce the compressed air into the system.
3. Gradually increase the air pressure to start expelling water from the system. Patience is key here; rushing through the blowout can leave water in the pipes, which defeats the purpose of winterizing.
4. Move through each zone one at a time until all water is blown out. Thoroughly check each zone to ensure no water remains.

How Long Do Blow Outs Take?

The duration of the winterizing process depends on the size of your irrigation system. For a typical residential system, it can take anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour. Larger commercial systems might take several hours.  Make sure you allocate enough time to do the job properly. Rushing through the winterizing process might result in missed zones or incomplete blowouts, leaving water trapped in the pipes. This can lead to frozen water expanding and causing pipes to burst.  You’ll know the job is done when there’s:

• No water misting from the sprinkler heads when using the air compressor.
• Consistently low air pressure readings.
• Drained backflow preventers and valves.

Double-checking now can save you headaches later. Imagine thinking your system is fully winterized, only to discover a hidden pocket of water that leads to a burst pipe. Thoroughly inspecting each zone and ensuring all water is expelled guarantees that your irrigation system will survive the winter unscathed.

Other Steps for Winterization

If you’re not following the blow-out method, you can use manual or automatic drain valves to remove any remaining water. You’ll also want to take steps to protect the controller by setting it to the "off" position. Some advanced systems have a "rain mode" which essentially does the same thing without turning off the timer settings.   Don’t forget to insulate any exposed pipes, too. You can wrap them with insulation tape or foam. This provides an extra layer of protection against freezing temperatures. Don’t forget the backflow preventer - this component is particularly vulnerable.   Detach hoses from outdoor faucets, drain any remaining water, and store them in a dry, sheltered place. This prevents them from becoming brittle and cracking in the cold.    Your work isn’t done yet! You also need to take some time to inspect your hoses, which we’ll describe in more detail below.

Fall Hose Inspections: What to Look For

While winterizing your irrigation system is essential, don't forget about your hoses. Fall hose inspections can prevent costly damage and ensure your hoses are ready for the next watering season.  Here's what to look for during your inspections:

Check for Leaks and Cracks

Inspect your hoses for any leaks or cracks. Even small pinholes can lead to significant water loss and reduced efficiency.    If you find any damage, consider replacing the hose or using hose repair kits to patch up the problem areas. A leaky hose can waste precious water and increase your utility bills, so addressing leaks promptly is crucial.

Examine Hose Connections

Make sure that all hose connections are secure and free from leaks. Loose connections can result in water wastage and reduced water pressure.    Tighten any loose fittings and replace worn-out washers to maintain a reliable and efficient hose system. Properly connected hoses help water flow smoothly and efficiently, without any leaks.

Test Hose Flexibility

Check the flexibility of your hoses. Cold temperatures can cause hoses to become brittle and prone to cracking. If you find that your hoses are already stiff or inflexible, consider storing them indoors during the winter months to prolong their lifespan.    Flexible hoses are less likely to crack under pressure, ensuring a longer-lasting and more reliable watering system.

Get Help This Fall from Hose and Fittings

Don't wait until it's too late - take action this fall and enjoy peace of mind knowing that your irrigation system and hoses are in top shape all winter long. Remember, winterizing your irrigation system and inspecting your hoses are essential tasks to ensure the longevity and efficiency of your watering setup. However, these tasks can be time-consuming and require specialized knowledge and equipment.  That's where Hose and Fittings comes in. We’re here to help you every step of the way when you’re searching for the right irrigation equipment and hoses -  and we want to make sure that your system is ready to perform flawlessly in the spring.  Invest in the longevity and efficiency of your irrigation setup and enjoy a worry-free winter season - winterize your system now, and settle in for the colder months ahead.