Question of the Week 11/12/2020

Q: Do I need an air compressor to blow out my irrigation system?

A: It depends on what kind of tubing was used when your irrigation was installed. If PVC was used, it is highly recommended that you use an air compressor to blow out the water from the lines.

Water inside of PVC during winter months usually results in costly repairs since PVC is rigid and tends to crack. When it cracks, it can shatter or cause hairline fractures for several feet; all of which will not be noticed until your irrigation is turned on in the spring.

If polyethylene tubing was used, you don’t need to worry about blowing out the irrigation as long as you properly drain it. Polyethylene tubing has flex to it and can expand and contrast with frozen water inside the line without breaking.