Diagram showing valve and pipe connections with directional arrows for flow control.

Pre-Winterization Steps

*Shut off the water at your main supply tap—typically located under stairs or in a crawl space—or at an outside supply, which often uses a long key through a small round cover in the yard for access.

*Follow these pre-winterize instructions by turning all 4 valves on the unit shown here to a 45-degree angle, ending at a diagonal. Start with the left test cocks using a screwdriver.

*Open any drain cap you see, both inside and outside. It’s advisable to have a bowl or bucket handy for any water that drains inside, and make sure to REPLACE any caps after draining.

AFTER the sprinkler system blowout:

*Loosen the drain cap inside.

*Turn off the timer (Controller) to complete the PVB winterization.

Every year, before the first freeze, it’s essential to follow pre-winterize instructions and have your system "blown out" or "winterized". This process involves forcing compressed air through the entire system to eliminate water and protect against freeze damage.

Refer to the above diagram to take some preventative steps if you have an above-ground copper backflow unit, like the one shown. These preliminary steps can prepare your system for the sprinkler system blowout, facilitating the removal of any remaining water. The copper, brass, and PVC units above ground are particularly vulnerable to early freezes, so this temporary draining option is advisable while awaiting your scheduled PVB winterization.

Additionally, wrapping your above-ground components with a towel, blanket, or insulating foam can be beneficial if you’re worried that water may still be present.

This preparation might also allow you the convenience of not needing to be home when the technician arrives with the compressor. Just inform your scheduler that you’ve completed these steps yourself.

We look forward to serving you!

Pre-Winterization Steps

PVB Pre-Winterization Instructions

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