Quick answer: Water trapped in irrigation components can expand during freezing conditions and damage pipe, fittings, valves, backflow-related components where present, or other exposed parts. Damage may not become obvious until the system is started again.
Why freezing causes damage
Ice occupies more volume than liquid water. In a confined irrigation component, that expansion can create enough pressure to split or deform material.
Where problems may appear
- Exposed piping and fittings
- Valve assemblies
- Shallow or water-filled sections of piping
- Components that retain water after shutdown
Signs discovered in spring
Leaks, weak zones, water surfacing from the ground or components that no longer hold pressure may appear when the system is reactivated.
See our winterization service and spring start-up service.
