Winterizing Sprinkler Systems - Preventing Damage

How to prevent your sprinkler system valves from freezing when an early freeze is coming and you haven't had a chance to blow out your sprinkler lines yet.

Auto-Drain Valves Explained

Auto drain valves are an addition that can be made to your sprinkler system to drain the water out of each sprinkler line after use.

If you want to add auto drain valves to your sprinkler system, you can find them for sale at http://www.sprinklerdaddy.ca/catalog/item/7033169/7387311

Swivel vs. Solid Dura Manifolds

You can't go wrong with using Dura manifolds for your sprinkler system, but there are two different options available - swivel and solid.

The solid Dura manifold has less connections so there are fewer opportunities for leaking. If you have troubles with the manifold though, you need to replace the whole thing.

The swivel Dura manifold has more connections so there are more opportunities for leaks, but if you run into troubles down the road, you only need to replace one zone on the manifold.

Dura vs. PVC Irrigation Manifolds

We use Dura manifolds instead of plain old PVC manifolds because:

• Dura manifolds take less time to put together
• Dura manifolds can be put together hand tight (no pipe wrenches required)
• No teflon tape required (rubber o-rings make the seal)
• Dura manifolds have thicker wall construction than schedule 40 PVC
• Dura manifolds are easier to repair and replace with their swivel construction

Wall Mounted vs. Underground Manual Sprinkler Valves

Some people prefer their manual manifolds on the wall, some prefer them in a box. In this video a spout off some of the pros and cons to doing it both ways. Essentially it comes down to this:

Wall Mounted:

Pros: Convenient to turn valves on and off, more cost effective
Cons: More prone to freezing, can be an eye-sore hanging off the side of your house

Valve Box:

Pros: Neater look, valves more protected from the elements (won't freeze as quick)
Cons: Have to get on your knees to turn the valves on and off

2009 Sprinkler Blowouts

The video above is from last year, but the same offer applies this year. If you're in the Regina area, simply book your sprinkler blowout online and we'll be out the next business day to get your sprinklers blown out for you (we'll follow up with an email after you order to confirm).

We'll also be throwing in a coupon from The Diplomat Steakhouse for $20 off your next meal when you purchase two entrees and two beverages.

It's a win-win!

Troubleshooting Leaking RainBird 5000 Sprinkler Heads

In this video, we talk about a common problem after installation with leaking RainBird 5000 heads and how to fix it. More often than not, the cause of a leaky sprinkler head immediately after installation has to do with dirt, rocks, pebbles, or other debris making it's way into the sprinkler lines and into the heads as well.

Giving everything a flush and good cleaning usually is the easiest fix.