How to Blow Out Lawn Sprinklers

Blowing out a sprinkler system is the process of removing water from the pipes. This essential maintenance winterizes the system and protects the pipes from damage. Water expands as it freezes, so any water in the sprinkler system could crack or split a pipe during a cold snap, necessitating an expensive repair. An air compressor connected to the line can quickly expel all water. You'll need a special hose attachment available for a sprinkler connection at hardware stores and garden centers. Borrow or rent a compressor if you do not own one.

Air compressor hose attachment with threaded coupler

Instructions

- 1
  Shut off the water to the sprinkler system.
- 2
  Insert the tapered, bayonet-style connector on one end of the hose into the coupler on the air compressor and twist half a turn clockwise to lock it in place.
- 3
  Screw on the threaded coupler at the other end of the hose to the water line on the sprinkler system. The coupler is the same size as the one you would use to connect a garden hose to an outdoor faucet.
- 4
  Turn on the compressor and increase the throttle speed gradually to blow water out of the sprinkler heads in your lawn.
- 5
  Shut off and disconnect the compressor when water stops flowing from the sprinkler heads and you can hear only the soft hiss of air.

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