How to Winterize Your Outdoor Irrigation or Sprinkler System

The following is a press release from Framingham DPW

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Framingham – The City of Framingham Department of Public Works is asking residents and businesses to isolate their irrigation/sprinkler system from the rest of their water supply before winterizing to help ensure proper water quality for all residents connected to the City’s potable water supply and avoid system failures.

Irrigation companies/landscapers will use an air compressor to winterize an irrigation system. The compressors are used to clear out residual water from sprinkler heads and pipes to avoid potential freezing.

“If you do not isolate your sprinkler system and shut the valve off from the rest of your water supply, air will go into the City’s water main, your home’s interior plumbing fixtures, and service line,” said Stephen Leone, Acting Director of Water and Wastewater. “The air can create discolored water or disrupt the flow from your faucet, causing it to ‘spit’ water. In some extreme instances, the air can cause damage to interior plumbing fixtures, a service line leak or even a water main break.”

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View the diagrams here to locate your sprinkler’s valve shut-off to isolate your system.

Each diagram has a valve that is highlighted in yellow and denoted by a circle with an “X” in it. The line with the “L” is for an irrigation system. The line “D” is for your domestic water supply. Whether you have an irrigation meter or a domestic meter, the valve located before the meter must be completely closed before blowing your irrigation system out.

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Image by bluebudgie from Pixabay