Why You Should Hire A Professional To Blow Out Irrigation System

Why Winterizing Your Irrigation System Professionally is Crucial

When it comes time to blow out irrigation system, many homeowners might consider doing it themselves. However, understanding the potential costs can change your mind quickly.

Winterizing your irrigation system is critical. If done incorrectly, water left in the pipes can freeze and expand, leading to cracks, burst pipes, and expensive repairs come spring. A professional touch ensures the job is done right, avoiding possible damage that a DIY approach might miss.

To safeguard your investment, hiring an expert makes sense. Professionals possess the right skills, equipment, and know-how to handle the nuances of different systems, ensuring all water is expelled. Plus, you save time and get peace of mind knowing your system is ready to face the harsh winter months.

Opting for a professional blow-out isn’t just about preventing damage; it’s about ensuring efficiency and longevity for your irrigation system.

The Risks of DIY Blow Out

While it might be tempting to save money by blowing out your irrigation system yourself, there are significant risks involved. Let’s explore the potential pitfalls.

Equipment Limitations

Homeowner-grade air compressors often fall short when it comes to the PSI (pounds per square inch) and CFM (cubic feet per minute) requirements needed to effectively blow out an irrigation system. Most home compressors can’t produce the 30 to 50 CFM at 40 to 80 PSI necessary for a thorough blow-out.

Using an underpowered compressor can leave water in the lines, risking freeze damage. Additionally, many homeowner compressors aren’t designed for continuous operation, which can lead to overheating and equipment failure.

Potential System Damage

Incorrect pressure settings are a common issue with DIY blow-outs. Too much pressure can cause severe damage to the system, including:

• Pipe Cracking: Rigid PVC pipes are particularly vulnerable to cracking under high pressure. Even flexible polyethylene pipes can develop leaks.
• Sprinkler Head Damage: Excessive pressure can break sprinkler heads, leading to costly replacements.
• Backflow Prevention: Improper blow-outs can damage the backflow prevention device, a critical component that keeps your drinking water safe from contamination.

Personal Injury

Blowing out an irrigation system involves handling high-pressure equipment, which can be dangerous. Incorrect usage can lead to:

• Air Hose Detachment: If not securely fastened, the air hose can detach, causing injury.
• Flying Debris: Water and debris can be expelled at high speeds, posing a risk to your eyes and skin.

Given these risks, it’s clear that DIY blow-outs can be more trouble than they’re worth. Hiring a professional ensures the job is done safely and effectively, protecting both you and your irrigation system.

Benefits of Hiring a Professional

Proper Equipment and Techniques

Hiring a professional to blow out your irrigation system ensures the use of proper equipment and techniques. Professionals use commercial-grade air compressors that meet the necessary PSI (pounds per square inch) and CFM (cubic feet per minute) requirements. These compressors can deliver the 30 to 50 CFM at 40 to 80 PSI needed for a thorough blow-out.

Professionals also follow strict safety protocols to avoid accidents. They know how to regulate pressure to prevent damage to pipes and sprinkler heads. Additionally, they use protective gear to safeguard against flying debris and other hazards.

Comprehensive System Check

Another significant advantage of hiring a professional is the comprehensive system check that comes with the service. Professionals don’t just blow out the system; they also inspect it for potential issues. This includes:

• Inspection: Checking for leaks, damaged pipes, and malfunctioning sprinkler heads.
• Maintenance: Cleaning filters, adjusting emitters, and ensuring all components are in good working order.
• Repairs: Fixing any problems on the spot to prevent costly damage in the future.

This thorough approach ensures your irrigation system is in top condition, ready to function efficiently when you need it again.

Time and Effort Savings

One of the most compelling reasons to hire a professional is the time and effort you save. Blowing out an irrigation system is a time-consuming task that requires specialized knowledge and equipment. Professionals can complete the job quickly and efficiently, freeing you up to focus on other tasks.

Hiring a professional also eliminates the hassle of renting or buying equipment, setting it up, and figuring out how to use it correctly. You get peace of mind knowing the job is done right, without the stress and potential pitfalls of a DIY approach.

In summary, hiring a professional to blow out your irrigation system ensures the use of proper equipment and techniques, provides a comprehensive system check, and saves you time and effort. These benefits make it a smart investment for protecting your irrigation system and maintaining a healthy, beautiful landscape.

How Professionals Blow Out Irrigation Systems

Step-by-Step Process

Professionals follow a meticulous process to blow out your irrigation system effectively and safely. Here’s a simplified breakdown of the steps involved:

1. Turn Off the Water Supply
The first step is to shut off the main water supply to the irrigation system. This ensures no additional water enters the system during the blow-out process.

2. Connect the Compressor
Next, the professional attaches a commercial-grade air compressor to the irrigation system. This typically involves connecting the compressor hose to a bib on the mainline of the sprinkler system. An adapter might be used to ensure a snug fit, preventing air leaks.

3. Zone-by-Zone Blow Out
The blow-out process is performed zone by zone. Starting with the sprinkler head farthest from the compressor, the professional will:

• Activate the compressor slowly and gradually increase the pressure to the recommended PSI.
• Open the valve for the first zone, allowing compressed air to push water out through the sprinkler heads.
• Once water stops spraying from a zone, the valve is closed, and the process is repeated for the next zone.

This method ensures that all parts of the system are thoroughly cleared of water, reducing the risk of freezing and damage.

Safety Measures

Pressure Regulation
Professionals carefully monitor and regulate the air pressure to prevent damage to the irrigation system. Too much pressure can crack pipes and damage sprinkler heads. They use pressure-regulating valves to maintain the correct PSI throughout the process.

Protective Gear
Safety is a top priority. Professionals wear protective gear, including safety goggles, to shield against flying debris and water spray. This precaution is crucial to avoid injuries during the blow-out process.

Monitoring
Throughout the blow-out, professionals keep a close eye on the compressor’s pressure readings and the system’s performance. This monitoring ensures the process runs smoothly and safely, avoiding any potential mishaps.

By following these steps and safety measures, professionals can efficiently and safely blow out your irrigation system, ensuring it’s ready to withstand the winter months. This expertise and attention to detail highlight why hiring a professional is the best choice for this critical maintenance task.

Frequently Asked Questions about Blowing Out Irrigation Systems

Can I blow out my sprinkler system myself?

Many homeowners wonder if they can handle blowing out their sprinkler system on their own. While it’s technically possible, there are significant risks involved. Homeowner-grade compressors often lack the power needed, both in terms of PSI (pounds per square inch) and CFM (cubic feet per minute). For an effective blowout, you generally need a compressor with a CFM rating between 80 and 100. Most homeowner compressors fall short of this requirement.

Using an underpowered compressor can leave water in the system, leading to potential freeze damage. Moreover, incorrect pressure settings can damage pipes and sprinkler heads. Hiring a professional ensures that the right equipment and techniques are used, safeguarding your system against winter damage.

How much pressure does it take to blow out an irrigation system?

The pressure required to blow out an irrigation system varies depending on the type of pipes in your system. For rigid PVC pipes, a PSI of 80 is generally recommended. For black polyurethane pipes, a lower PSI of around 50 is sufficient.

Using the correct PSI is crucial. Too much pressure can crack pipes and damage sprinkler heads, while too little pressure won’t clear the system effectively. Professionals use pressure-regulating valves to maintain the correct PSI, ensuring a thorough and safe blowout.

When should you blow out an irrigation system?

Timing is critical when it comes to blowing out your irrigation system. The goal is to complete the process before temperatures drop below freezing. In most regions, this means scheduling the blowout in early fall.

Regional considerations also play a role. In areas where frost levels reach below the depth of irrigation systems, early preparation is essential. Professionals can help you schedule the blowout at the optimal time, ensuring your system is protected before freezing temperatures set in.

By addressing these frequently asked questions, it’s clear that hiring a professional to blow out your irrigation system is the safest and most effective option. The right equipment, proper techniques, and timely scheduling ensure your system is well-prepared for winter, saving you from costly repairs and headaches.

Conclusion

Hiring a professional to blow out your irrigation system is not just a smart choice; it’s a crucial step in protecting your investment. Winterizing your irrigation system properly can prevent extensive damage and costly repairs. Here’s why choosing a professional service like Best In Irrigation, LLC is the best decision you can make:

1. Expertise and Precision

Professional technicians have the knowledge and experience to handle the complexities of irrigation systems. They understand the specific PSI and CFM requirements needed to effectively clear water from different types of pipes. This expertise minimizes the risk of damage to your system.

2. Advanced Equipment

Unlike homeowner-grade compressors, professionals use commercial-grade compressors that are capable of delivering the necessary pressure and airflow. This ensures a thorough blowout, safeguarding your pipes and sprinkler heads from potential freeze damage.

3. Comprehensive System Check

When you hire a professional, you’re not just getting a blowout service. Technicians also perform a comprehensive system check, identifying any potential issues that might need repair. This proactive approach helps maintain the longevity and efficiency of your irrigation system.

4. Time and Effort Savings

Blowing out an irrigation system can be time-consuming and labor-intensive, especially without the right tools and knowledge. Professionals can complete the job quickly and efficiently, saving you time and hassle. Plus, you get the peace of mind that comes with knowing the job was done correctly.

5. Focus on Water Conservation

At Best In Irrigation, LLC, we prioritize water conservation in all our projects. By using cutting-edge technology and advanced techniques, we ensure your system operates efficiently, reducing water waste and saving you money in the long run.

6. Trusted Expertise

With nine years of trusted expertise in the New England region, Best In Irrigation, LLC has built a reputation for delivering custom solutions that meet the unique needs of residential and commercial landscapes. Our commitment to quality and customer satisfaction is evident in every project we undertake.

In conclusion, the importance of professional services in winterizing your irrigation system cannot be overstated. From using the right equipment to ensuring safety and efficiency, professionals provide a level of service that DIY efforts simply can’t match.

Ready to protect your irrigation system this winter? Contact Best In Irrigation, LLC today for expert service and peace of mind. Your landscape deserves the best, and with our cutting-edge technology and dedication to water conservation, you can trust that it’s in good hands.