As the winter months approach, homeowners who have sprinkler systems face an important task: winterizing the system to protect it from freezing temperatures. For those thinking of going the DIY route, it might seem like a simple task that can save a bit of money. However, DIY sprinkler winterization can lead to a range of serious issues if not done correctly. Here’s a look at the worst things that can happen if you attempt to winterize your sprinkler system on your own, without the expertise of a professional.
1. Frozen Pipes Leading to Burst Lines
One of the primary purposes of winterization is to remove all the water from your sprinkler system’s pipes. If water is left inside the pipes, even a small amount, freezing temperatures can cause that water to expand, leading to cracked or burst pipes. If the pipe bursts underground, you may not notice the damage until spring when water pressure is low, or patches of your yard stay wet or muddy for no reason.
Repairing burst pipes is not only expensive but also labor-intensive, often requiring you to dig up sections of your yard to replace damaged pipes. This can lead to additional landscaping repairs and costs, especially if the damage is extensive.
2. Damaged Backflow Preventer
Your sprinkler system likely includes a backflow preventer, which ensures that water in the system does not flow back into the drinking water supply. If not properly drained and winterized, water can become trapped inside this device. When temperatures drop, the trapped water freezes and expands, causing cracks in the internal components or the casing itself.
A damaged backflow preventer compromises the safety and functionality of your sprinkler system, and in some cases, it could result in contaminated drinking water entering your home’s supply. Backflow preventer repairs or replacements are costly and can be a hassle to resolve in the middle of winter.
3. Ineffective Blowout
Many homeowners attempting DIY winterization use the blowout method, where an air compressor is used to blow water out of the sprinkler lines. While this might seem straightforward, improper use of the air compressor can lead to two major problems: insufficient removal of water and damage to the system itself.
If you’re not using the correct pressure, water might not be fully removed from the lines, leading to the freezing issues mentioned earlier. On the flip side, using an air compressor with too high a PSI can damage the valves, heads, or pipes. Sprinkler systems are designed to handle water pressure, not the force of compressed air, which makes it easy for untrained individuals to cause harm while performing the blowout.
4. Cracked Sprinkler Heads
Sprinkler heads are particularly vulnerable during winter if they aren’t properly winterized. Water can become trapped in the head itself or in the short section of pipe leading to it. When this water freezes, the expansion can cause the sprinkler head to crack, resulting in a dysfunctional system come spring.
Cracked sprinkler heads often need to be replaced entirely, and if multiple heads are damaged, the costs can add up quickly. Additionally, identifying which heads are damaged may not be easy for a DIYer, which could lead to ongoing water waste once the system is turned back on.
5. Higher Repair Costs in Spring
The cumulative effects of improper winterization usually aren’t seen until spring when it’s time to reactivate the system. By that time, any damage caused by freezing will have taken its toll. Burst pipes, damaged valves, and malfunctioning sprinkler heads all require attention, and repairs can add up quickly. You might think you’re saving money by doing the winterization yourself, but the repair costs could far exceed what you would have paid a professional to winterize your system properly.
In addition to repair costs, you may face increased water bills if the system suffers from leaks or inefficiency due to damage. Unchecked leaks can also cause significant damage to your yard, leading to uneven watering and potential erosion issues.
6. Voiding Manufacturer Warranties
Many sprinkler systems come with manufacturer warranties that cover certain types of damage. However, these warranties may be voided if the damage occurs due to improper winterization. Manufacturers often require professional servicing for the system to remain under warranty. If you DIY your winterization and something goes wrong, you may find that you’re on your own when it comes to covering repair costs.
Don’t Cut Corners
While DIY sprinkler winterization might seem like a good way to save some money, the potential consequences far outweigh the initial savings. From burst pipes and damaged sprinkler heads to costly repairs and voided warranties, the risks are significant. Hiring a professional to winterize your sprinkler system ensures that the job is done correctly, saving you time, money, and headaches when spring rolls around. It’s an investment that pays off in the long run, protecting both your sprinkler system and your landscape.
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