Irrigation systems in the Midwest need to be started-up in the spring and winterized annually. Spring start-up is typically in April or May. Winterization should be completed by the end of October to avoid any freeze damage. Weather varies year to year and plays into when you want to start-up and winterize your system.

Spring Start-up: Includes re-installing the Reduced Pressure Zone (RPZ) valve if it was removed for the winter, slowly adding water to the system, a visual inspection of each zone, minor adjustments to spray patterns on the heads, and programming the controller. It is always a good idea to have an approved allowance for repairs during the start-up. This allowance can be allotted for repairs needed to test the whole system, including, main and lateral line leaks that prevent the contractor from completing the start-up and replacement of heads that are broken off and spewing water. Other repairs, replacements, or upgrades which are not critical to the system operation can be proposed for repair at a later time.

Winterization: Includes blowing out the irrigation system with an air compressor at no greater than 75 PSI. It is best to winterize a system while running through each zone on the controller. If the controller is not accessible, the system can be winterized manually by the valves. The RPZ backflow preventer should be removed if it is located outside in the elements. RPZ’s located inside a heated space do not need to be removed. Some companies do opt to leave the RPZ outside during the winter as long as it’s properly winterized. However, Illinois Law requires RPZ’s to be removed if subject to freezing conditions.

Annual RPZ backflow preventer testing: The State of Illinois requires a Backflow Preventer to have a Certified Cross-Connection Control Device Inspector (CCCDI) Cross Connect test annually. This test must be completed by a licensed plumber with the CCCDI certification. The backflow test confirms whether the backflow device is operating properly. If it is not operating properly there is a risk of contaminated water from the irrigation system getting into the potable water system. An RPZ failure can be attributed to climate/temperatures, hard water, well water, or particles in the water. If the system isn’t winterized properly, an RPZ can freeze and crack and may need to be replaced or rebuilt. Gaskets and springs wear out but can be repaired in many cases.

Storing the RPZ During the Winter: An RPZ needs to be stored in a warm space where it won’t freeze. It should also be placed where it won’t get misplaced, thrown out, or stolen. RPZ’s are expensive, averaging $650 to replace, depending on the size. Often the irrigation contractor will store the RPZ at their own heated location during the winter months.

Typical Component Problems to be Aware of: 

• Valves have moving parts, an electric solenoid, and low voltage wires. Most valve failure is due to the age of components, electrical surges through the solenoid, or someone manually mishandling the valve and breaking off the handle or switch.
  
• Heads have moving parts, gaskets, and springs. Weather conditions, particles in the water, and age contribute to the failure of heads. Damage by others during construction, landscape renovation, and remodeling is common.
  
• Lateral and Main Lines are composed of PVC and polyethylene pipe. Lines underground can last for many, many years. Most breaks are caused by freezing temperatures or digging. It is also not uncommon to find an irrigation line that has been strangled by tree roots.
  
• Controllers are quite user friendly, especially the newer versions. Controllers have many options for run times, days to run, soak cycles, exclusion days, etc. Make sure you understand how your controller operates, what days and times your community allows you to water, and all of the features available to help you save water. Controller problems typically occur from aging, loose wiring, or dead batteries.
  
• Rain or Rain/Freeze Sensor problems are usually the result of the sensor not being synced with the controller, a loose wire, or a bad battery.
  

Betty Sargent can be reached at (847) 546-0165 or bettysargent@jmirrigation.com.