What Air Compressor Do I Need To Blow Out Sprinklers? Here Are The Top 5 Options!

Preparing your sprinkler system for winter is crucial to prevent costly damage from freezing temperatures. Blowing out the lines with compressed air is a simple yet effective way to remove excess water, ensuring a trouble-free start come spring. But what air compressor do you need for this task?

Understanding Air Compressor Specifications

To determine the right air compressor, you need to understand its key specifications:

• Cubic Feet per Minute (CFM): Measures the volume of air delivered per minute. Higher CFM means faster blow-out times.
• Pressure (PSI): Measures the force of the air. Higher PSI penetrates deeper into sprinkler lines.
• Tank Size (Gallons): Stores compressed air, allowing for continuous use without frequent recharging.

Choosing the Right Air Compressor

For blowing out sprinklers, consider the following recommendations:

CFM Requirements

• For small to medium-sized systems (up to 10 zones): 10-15 CFM
• For larger systems (10+ zones): 15-25 CFM

Pressure Requirements

• For most residential systems: 80-100 PSI
• For systems with long runs or multiple elevations: 100-120 PSI

Tank Size Recommendations

• For systems with up to 5 zones: 2-4 gallons
• For systems with 5-10 zones: 4-6 gallons
• For systems with 10+ zones: 6+ gallons

Types of Air Compressors

• Electric Air Compressors: Compact and quiet, suitable for small systems.
• Gasoline Air Compressors: Powerful and portable, ideal for larger systems or remote locations.
• Diesel Air Compressors: Heavy-duty and long-lasting, used for commercial applications.

Features to Consider

• Auto Shut-Off: Automatically stops the compressor when the desired pressure is reached.
• Oil-Lubricated: Requires regular oil changes but provides longer lifespan and durability.
• Oil-Free: Requires no lubrication, making them maintenance-free.

How to Use an Air Compressor to Blow Out Sprinklers

1. Gather Tools and Safety Gear: Air compressor, hose, blow-out plug, safety glasses, and gloves.
2. Locate Backflow Preventer: Turn off the water supply and open the backflow preventer to drain any remaining water.
3. Insert Blow-Out Plug: Attach the blow-out plug to the sprinkler head at the lowest point of the system.
4. Connect Air Compressor: Attach the air hose to the compressor and connect the other end to the blow-out plug.
5. Turn On Compressor: Start the compressor and allow it to build pressure.
6. Blow Out Sprinkler Lines: Open the blow-out valve and hold it open until all the water is expelled.
7. Move to Next Sprinkler Head: Repeat the process for each sprinkler head in the system.

Safety Precautions

• Always wear safety glasses and gloves.
• Never point the air hose towards yourself or others.
• Keep children and pets away from the work area.
• Allow the compressor to cool down before storing it.

Troubleshooting

• Low Air Pressure: Check for leaks in the hose or connections.
• Compressor Overheating: Allow the compressor to rest for a few minutes before continuing.
• Water Not Expelled: Ensure the blow-out plug is securely inserted and the valve is fully open.

The Bottom Line: Ensuring a Trouble-Free Winter for Your Sprinkler System

By choosing the right air compressor and following proper blowing-out techniques, you can effectively winterize your sprinkler system and protect it from freezing damage. Remember, prevention is key to maintaining a healthy and efficient sprinkler system for years to come.

What People Want to Know

Q: Can I use a regular air compressor to blow out sprinklers?
A: Yes, you can use a regular air compressor as long as it meets the CFM, pressure, and tank size requirements.

Q: How long does it take to blow out a sprinkler system?
A: The time varies depending on the system size and number of zones. Typically, it takes 15-30 minutes per zone.

Q: What happens if I don’t blow out my sprinklers for the winter?
A: Water left in the lines can freeze and expand, causing pipes to burst and damage the system.