The harsh winter months can be brutal for a backflow device without a tight grip on basic backflow device maintenance. Keeping your system in check is easier than you think – and as important as you probably already know. Our expertly designed Backflow Winterizer Valves from Wilkins and Blue Heron provide full-force freeze prevention for your sprinkler system's backflow devices, safeguarding your entire irrigation infrastructure.
Backflow winterization valves are a worthwhile investment for maintaining irrigation systems in colder climates, ensuring their functionality during the colder months. In areas with freezing cold winters, backflow winterization valves should be installed immediately, as part of the irrigation system’s design. Freezing water in the pipes, valves, and sprinkler heads can cause costly damage. On top of that, cracked pipes and broken components are usually more difficult to repair or replace in the freezing cold.
No, but they are often combined. A backflow preventer stops contaminated water from flowing back into your main water supply, while a winterization valve is designed for draining or blowing out water from the irrigation system.
The valve allows you to drain or blow out water from the lines, which prevents freeze damage to the pipes, sprinkler heads, and other components, but that doesn’t replace the need for winterization itself. Investing in a sprinkler winterization kit with pipe insulation or an insulated backflow bag will save you lots of trouble in the long run.
Winterization valves should be inspected annually, before, during, and after the coldest months of the year. Check for signs of wear, cracks, or leaks. With proper maintenance, they can last several years, but replace any damaged valves immediately to ensure the system stays protected.
