Why Sprinkler Systems Need to Be Winterized in New Mexico
Starting around October we begin talking about winterization, and the process of shutting down irrigation systems. The most frequently asked question from our community is "why?" We hear things like "I've never had to do this" or "it's not even that cold," and many other phrases.
Freeze damage is one of the most expensive and damaging things that can happen to your irrigation system. Throughout late fall and winter, we see many of the following:
- Frozen backflow devices, causing non-stop leaking which turns to ice
- Broken plastic pipe
- Broken valves
- And more
Anything that holds water is susceptible to freeze damage.
So to answer the question why: it's because it only benefits you, and can save you money.
How to Winterize a Sprinkler System
The process of winterization is simple. Depending on the size of your system it could take 3 - 10 minutes to shut down. This process can save you thousands of dollars in repairs.
We've produced a video to make this even easier for you. Simply identify the backflow device (the metal pipes sticking out of the ground) by matching it to the picture in the video. Then follow the easy 1-2-3 guide and you're set!