Do I need to cover backflow preventer?
To properly protect your backflow, you want to wrap it in insulation and tape it tightly so that it remains in place. Make sure you cover any exposed coper piping during this process. If you do not have any insulation on hand and it is an emergency, you can use an old sweater, towel or blanket as well.
How do I hide my backflow valve?
There are three things you can do to hide your backflow enclosure. You can use an n-type assembly, install your backflow preventer in a location that’s in the rear of your building, or you can camouflage it.
How do you wrap a backflow preventer?
Wrap it with towels, a fleece blanket, sleeping bag, or sweatshirt. Use duct tape to keep the wrapping in place. Then place a heavy-duty garbage bag over the BPA to keep the wrapping dry. Don’t seal the bag too tightly — just enough to keep the bag and wrapping from blowing off.
How do I protect my sprinkler valves?
The main shut off valve for your irrigation system needs to be protected against freezing. Make sure it is wrapped with insulation (foam insulation tape and a plastic bag) to protect it from harsh winter temperatures and prevent it from freezing.
Do backflow valves need maintenance?
You should check your backwater valve every 2-3 months or before a forecasted heavy rainfall. This will ensure that the valve is functioning properly. Debris found in the valve will most likely prevent it from function properly.
Should I remove the backflow preventer for winter?
(Optional) If your backflow preventer was installed with unions you can remove it and store it inside for the winter. After you take it off, make sure you drain the water from both sides, open the test cocks and close the valves ¼ turn. It may also be good to wrap it in a towel or old blanket.
How do you winterize irrigation backflow preventer?
Follow these steps to winterize your backflow preventer.
- Turn off water to the backflow preventer.
- Open test cocks on the backflow preventer to drain all the water from it.
- Once water is drained, close both shutoff valves with a one-quarter counterclockwise turn.