The Ultimate Guide To Finding The Right Air Compressor For Blowing Out Sprinklers: What Size And Type Do You Need?

As winter’s icy grip approaches, savvy homeowners prepare to safeguard their sprinkler systems from freezing temperatures. Blowing out the water from sprinklers is crucial to prevent costly damage. But what air compressor do you need to tackle this task effectively? Let’s delve into the essential considerations.

Key Factors to Consider

When selecting an air compressor for blowing out sprinklers, several key factors come into play:

• Cubic Feet per Minute (CFM): CFM measures the volume of air the compressor can deliver. For sprinkler blowouts, a compressor with at least 10 CFM is recommended.
• Pressure (PSI): PSI indicates the force with which the air is delivered. A compressor with 90-120 PSI is ideal for this application.
• Tank Size: The tank size determines how much air the compressor can store. A tank size of 20-30 gallons is sufficient for most residential sprinkler systems.
• Portability: If you need to move the compressor around, consider its weight and portability.

Types of Air Compressors

There are two main types of air compressors suitable for sprinkler blowouts:

• Electric Air Compressors: Electric compressors are convenient and quiet, making them ideal for use in residential areas.
• Gas Air Compressors: Gas compressors are more powerful and portable, but they are also louder and require more maintenance.

Recommended Air Compressor Specifications

Based on the factors discussed above, the following air compressor specifications are recommended for blowing out sprinklers:

• CFM: 10-15 CFM
• Pressure: 90-120 PSI
• Tank Size: 20-30 gallons
• Type: Electric or gas (depending on your specific needs)

Step-by-Step Sprinkler Blowout Guide

Once you have the right air compressor, follow these steps to blow out your sprinklers:

1. Gather Tools: You will need an air compressor, blowgun, and compressed air adapter.
2. Turn Off Water Supply: Locate the main water supply valve and shut it off.
3. Open Faucets: Open all outdoor faucets to release any remaining water.
4. Connect Air Compressor: Connect the air compressor to the compressed air adapter and blowgun.
5. Blow Out Sprinkler Heads: Starting from the lowest point in the system, insert the blowgun into each sprinkler head and blow out the water until no more water comes out.
6. Blow Out Lateral Lines: Once all sprinkler heads are blown out, attach the blowgun to the lateral lines (the pipes that connect the sprinkler heads) and blow out any remaining water.
7. Blow Out Backflow Preventer: If you have a backflow preventer, attach the blowgun to it and blow out the water using short bursts of air.

Safety Precautions

When using an air compressor, always follow these safety precautions:

• Wear eye protection and earplugs.
• Never point the air nozzle at yourself or others.
• Keep the compressor well-ventilated.
• Do not exceed the manufacturer’s recommended pressure.

Final Note: Protect Your Sprinklers with Confidence

By selecting the right air compressor and following the proper steps, you can effectively blow out your sprinklers and safeguard them against winter damage. Whether you choose an electric or gas compressor, ensure it meets the recommended specifications to ensure a successful and hassle-free blowout.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How often should I blow out my sprinklers?
A: It is recommended to blow out your sprinklers once a year, before the first hard freeze of the season.

Q: Can I use a smaller air compressor to blow out my sprinklers?
A: While it is possible to use a smaller compressor, it will take longer and may not be as effective.

Q: What should I do if my sprinkler system is frozen?
A: If your sprinkler system is frozen, do not attempt to blow it out. Contact a professional plumber to prevent further damage.