If water freezes in pipes, filters or valves, it expands and bursts the component. Anyone who wants to winterize their drip irrigation must therefore drain all water-carrying parts or store them frost-free before the first frost. Depending on the system, this takes barely an hour – and saves expensive damage in spring.
Why frost protection is so important
Water expands by about 9% when it freezes. Even a residue in a compression fitting, a filter housing or a solenoid valve is enough to burst housings or destroy seals. Particularly at risk are above-ground pipes, filters, pressure reducers and valves.
Frost-proof in 6 steps
| Step | What to do |
|---|---|
| 1. Shut off the water | Close the main supply to the irrigation and depressurise the system. |
| 2. Drain the lines | Open the lowest points and end caps, let the water drain off; for long runs, blow out with compressed air (low pressure). |
| 3. Remove the filter | Open the sieve or disc filter, clean the element, empty the housing and store it dry. |
| 4. Valves & pressure reducers | Drain solenoid valves and pressure reducers; store sensitive parts frost-free. |
| 5. Driplines | Drain the dripline/drip tape; rolling it up and storing it frost-free increases its service life. |
| 6. Controller | Remove the batteries from 9V controllers; disconnect transformer control units from the mains. |
Installation depth as an alternative
Permanently buried main lines are laid below the local frost depth (in Germany usually 80–150 cm) and then do not need to be drained. For the right pressure rating and wall thickness, see PN10 or PN16? Pressure ratings & SDR.
Returning to operation in spring
Insert the filter element, check the connections, slowly open the valve and flush the system through completely once before reconnecting the drippers. Helpful afterwards: measure water flow and adjust the irrigation plan if necessary.
Expert advice from KLN: As an official Poelsan distribution partner, we help you select the right frost-proof components. Send your enquiry now.