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SPRINKLER BLOWOUT TIPS FOR UNDERGROUND IRRIGATION SYSTEMS IN KAMLOOPS

November 15th 2019




Over here at Culture Care we just wanted to remind everybody in Kamloops that sprinkler systems in Kamloops should have been winterized by now. If your system still needs to be done we can still do it for you until the temperature drops!


Every time the fall season rolls around our certified irrigation technicians quickly become fully engulfed in performing countless “sprinkler system blowouts” for our clients to ensure there is no stationary water remaining in their sprinkler systems. Ice can freeze and expand within the pipes, causing damage, leaks and reduced overall efficiency. Removing the water before it freezes ensures great system performance once spring arrives and it's time to get your sprinkler system up and running again.


We just wanted to take a moment and share a few tips with you to help your automated sprinkler system get through another Canadian winter in tip-top shape! We hope these tips help! If you’re not able to do any of this yourself, contact us today and we’ll take care of your sprinkler system for you.


Shut Off The Main Water Supply To The System


Whether your system has its own dedicated shut-off valve or not, make sure there is no water flowing into your system. Do this by either turning off the sprinkler system’s shut-off valve or by shutting off your main exterior water supply line.


Physically Insulate Any Exterior Components


Much like insulating an outside garden faucet to get ready for freezing temperatures this step involves putting some type of insulation around any components of your sprinkler system that are exposed to the outside elements. This includes equipment such as the main shut off valve or any above-ground piping. Both moisture and cold are the main culprits for damaged equipment, so thick foam insulation material can protect against the dropping temperatures while plastic sheeting or a plastic bag can be used to keep moisture out. If the component you are insulating sees a lot of direct sunlight it would be a good idea to using a clear or light-colored plastic barrier rather than darker colors to reduce condensation build-up during the day that could then refreeze overnight when the temperatures dip.


Drain The Pipes


Now that we have made sure that no water is getting into your sprinkler system the final task is to remove any existing water in your sprinkler system lines. Depending on your sprinkler system design you may have an automatic or manual drain valve to remove the remaining water from your sprinkler system's pipes. The most efficient way to guarantee that all the remaining water is removed from your system is by performing a “sprinkler system blowout”. This involves using a powerful air compressor to clear all the pipes of any remaining water that could potentially freeze, ensuring that your sprinkler system isn't damaged over the course of the winter.


Our certified technicians here at Culture Care have plenty of experience expertly and efficiently performing sprinkler system blowouts. Contact us today to discuss the best options to winterize your specific sprinkler system! We absolutely want to make sure that you get through the winter without any stress knowing that everything will be in great shape once the weather warms up again!