To winterize or not? This is a very tricky question if you live in Tampa Bay. We have already had a low temperature in past January 2018 of 29 degrees so there were probably a lot of frozen pipes around Tampa Bay.
Winterization Service
Contact a sprinkler company during the winter season to come out and check your sprinkler system. This process may include blowing out different parts of your sprinkler system in order to protect them from freeze damage. With routine maintenance, you will enjoy a more effective sprinkler system for a longer period of time. Ask the company about their maintenance programs.
Adjustments
Instead of winterizing completely, you may just need to make adjustments to your sprinkler system and watch the temperatures.
Freeze Sensor
Some irrigation systems have a freeze sensor which will help the system shut off when temperatures fall below freezing or when it detects moisture. If you do have a freeze sensor, it should be checked as part of the winterization process. Check the batteries as well.
Shut Off Water
If the weather channel is predicting a freeze, it may be a good idea to turn off your water source to ensure that your sprinklers won’t accidentally go off. In Florida, it’s less important to drain the hoses and irrigation pipes, but it’s something many recommend doing if a freeze will be prolonged or extreme.
Underground pipes are usually better insulated, but those that are exposed should be covered with insulation in freezing weather, along with any pumps and pump housing.
Insulate
Insulate backflow preventers and valves if they are above ground. You can also use insulation tape for this. Be sure not to block the air vents and drain outlets on backflow preventers.
Let our qualified specialist answer all of your questions about winterizing your sprinkler system.
At Sunrise Irrigation, we know sprinkler installation and repair, landscape lighting and all-natural mosquito control and more. Our highly qualified, fully licensed and insured specialists have been beautifying residential and commercial landscapes in Palm Harbor and the Tampa Bay area for more than 20 years. As an established, family-owned irrigation management business, we believe that keeping Florida homes and businesses looking their best begins with a healthy lawn. Give us a call at 727-275-2204 or schedule an initial consultation to discuss how we can help your lawn become lusher, greener, and healthier.
