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Upper Trinity Encourages Residents to Turn Off Sprinklers and Prepare Homes for the Winter

Winterize Sprinklers, Outdoor Faucets, and Pools

With winter approaching and the possibility of freezing temperatures, Upper Trinity is encouraging residents to winterize their sprinkler system, faucets, and swimming pools. Prepare now to save money and water!

Sprinkler systems should be turned off until next spring - - lawns and other plants are dormant and need very little additional water to make it through the winter.  In fact, too much water during the inter can lead to fungal diseases and other issues in lawns.  Turning the sprinkler controller to the OFF position also ensures the sprinklers don’t water and create icy sidewalks during freezing temperatures.  To prevent damage to sprinkler systems this winter, drain the water from backflow prevention assembly (see photo) and insulate any exposed pipes.  Upper Trinity recommends using a licensed irrigator to drain sprinkler components to prevent accidental damage.

Protect outdoor faucets by disconnecting hoses and covering the faucet.  Exposed pipes can be insulated with foam or other materials. These items are inexpensive and can be purchased at any hardware store.

Be sure that swimming pool pumps continue to circulate water when temperatures drop below freezing. If temperatures are expected to be below freezing for several days or you lose power to the pool, drain water from the pool equipment or contact a pool maintenance company for assistance.

For indoor faucets on an exterior wall, open cabinet doors to allow warmer air to circulate around the pipes.  In extreme cold, allow a slow drip of water, not a constant stream.

Learn how to turn off the water to the house if a pipe breaks.  This can be done by turning the valve next to the water meter one-quarter or one-half turn. Open as many faucets to drain as much water as possible.  Consider draining the pipes when leaving town if freezing temperatures are predicted.

For more water conservation tips, visit the https://www.utrwd.com/saving-water/save-outdoors/water-less-yallUTRWD website.