It is not rare for sprinkler systems to freeze in the cold winter months and in countries that witness temperature drops for most of the year. Even though this looks like a common phenomenon, there is no denying that it will lead to system damage and initiate expensive future repairs. It becomes essential to understand what should be done to prevent them and how to handle such problems when you are unfortunately dealing with one.
What Happens When The Sprinkler System Freezes?
The freezing water in the sprinkler system can cause components to expand, creating pressure on the pipes and sprinkler heads, causing them to crack, form leaks, and even burst in most scenarios.
Should you shut down sprinklers during cold seasons?
It is best to shut down the irrigation system before you anticipate a colder season approaching, with temperatures potentially going below the freezing point. This may ensure the system’s safety and prevent its damage.
What should be done when pipes have frozen?
Find Out the Root Cause
Try to find out from where it started leaking. The pipes above the ground are more likely to be affected by cold temperatures. On the other hand, the underground pipes are covered in dirt and soil, which provides them with enough insulation and protection against cold. Look for the joints at the pipes, as cracks and damage are more likely to be found there.
Repairing Leaks
The cracked section must be repaired, and a new one must be immediately installed. If cracks are found in a particular section of pipe, consider cutting out portions and removing them. An expert can be hired to handle the job professionally.
How Do You Inspect and Get Rid of Frozen Sprinkler Systems?
Manifold Repairing
Step 1: The sprinkler manifold box has a lid and is usually half buried. This box contains the chain of valves that help operate the sprinkler system.
Step 2: Close inspection of these valves can help locate the cracks, and any possible signs of damage must be immediately attended to.
Step 3: Valves with damage, cracks, or leaks must be turned counterclockwise so that they can be properly detached from the manifold assembly.
Step 4: The black and grey solenoids must be unscrewed from the damaged valve top. By avoiding new wiring installation, it can be used again.
Step 5: The new valves can be placed in the manifold holes, after which they must be turned clockwise to keep them tight.
Step 6: The solenoids can be placed on a new valve top, and keep them tight with the help of suitable screws. The old solenoids must be installed in the same positions.
Pipe Repairing
Step 1: Start the sprinkler cycle by setting the timer on “test” and “manual run.” Run the sprinklers for a minimum of 30 minutes. The water sealed in the broken pipes can settle on the ground.
Step 2: The sprinkler time must be “off’ after which you must locate the pooled water problems in your lawn through close inspection. The pooled water may indicate that the damaged sprinkler pipe is around.
Step 3: Dig the area and look for damaged pipes. Treat them without cutting off the pipes with a shovel while you are digging them up.
Step 4: A broken pipe can be treated with a repair clamp. The rubber gasket should face the broken side of the pipe and cover the entire broken area.
Step 5: Make sure that the gasket has been screwed well and tight. The leak can be sealed with the pressure of the gasket. Cover the pipe as it was.
Sprinkler Head Repairing
Step 1: The sprinkler system’s timer must be set to “manual run” or in the “test” position. The sprinklers should run for approximately 5 minutes.
Step 2: The sprinkler heads must be closely inspected for leaks and damage. When the work is completed, turn the timer “off.”
Step 3: Expose the plastic foundations by removing dirt right at the damaged sprinkler bottom.
Step 4: Sprinklers can be turned in the counterclockwise direction. When loose, sprinklers are free.
Step 5: The risers are exposed and can be topped with new sprinkler heads. To keep them tight, turn clockwise. Turn the nozzle towards the desired direction of spray. To find out how the new sprinkler has been performing, it is advisable to keep sprinkler time to “test” position.
Protection of Sprinkler Systems for Safety & Efficacy in Future
“Winterizing the system” is crucial and must be attempted before the arrival of the winter season. Avoiding residual water and draining the excess water is the key to ensuring no freezing in pipes. Foam insulation sleeves can provide sufficient insulation to sprinkler pipes and heads.
Irrigation specialists and sprinkler system repair professionals can bring in the right blend of expertise and knowledge to help thaw the frozen pipes, locate the leaks, and repair the damaged portions. They also can help do the needful by preventing frozen pipe issues in the future.
Summary
Sprinkler system damage, leaks, and freeze issues are common, but ignorance can worsen the damage. Proper methods of fixing the damage and ensuring a timely repair will not just contribute to the prolonged life of sprinkler systems and also prevent expensive component repair and emergency replacements.
It is not rare for sprinkler systems to freeze in the cold winter months and in countries that witness temperature drops for most of the year. Even though this looks like a common phenomenon, there is no denying that it will lead to system damage and initiate expensive future repairs. It becomes essential to understand what should be done to prevent them and how to handle such problems when you are unfortunately dealing with one.
