Irrigation Archives

8 Tips to Winterize Your Irrigation System This Season

Posted on December 21, 2023December 22, 2023 by splashme@splashomnimedia.com

As winter approaches, businesses that rely on commercial irrigation systems, including those in agriculture, landscaping, and golf course management, face a formidable challenge: the risk of freezing temperatures damaging their irrigation infrastructure. When you winterize your irrigation system, you’re doing more than protecting it from freeze-related damage — you’re also preventing costly repairs and downtime. Here are some practical tips to ensure your system remains functional and intact throughout the coldest months.

1. Winterize Your Irrigation System Early

The key to preventing freeze damage to your irrigation system is preparation. Watch weather forecasts and begin winterization before a freeze. This typically means shutting off the water supply to your irrigation system and expelling all remaining water from the pipes, sprinkler heads, and valves. Water left inside can freeze, expand, and crack the components of your system.

2. Drain the Pipes Thoroughly

Drain your pipes completely using manual, automatic, or blow-out methods. For commercial systems, the blow-out method involves using compressed air to force water out and is often most effective. It’s important to have a professional handle this process, as the incorrect pressure can damage pipes.

3. Insulate Above-Ground Components

Any components of your irrigation system exposed to the elements, such as backflow preventers and valves, should have adequate insulation, especially during the winter. Use insulation tape or foam insulating tubes designed for plumbing. Ensure the material is waterproof and secure it with weather-resistant tape to protect against moisture, which can freeze and cause damage.

4. Install a Freeze Sensor

Modern irrigation systems allow for equipping with freeze sensors that automatically shut down the system when temperatures approach freezing points. These sensors are invaluable for commercial operations and provide an automatic safeguard against sudden temperature drops that could lead to freezing.

5. Check and Seal Off Leaks

Before the onset of winter, inspect your system for leaks. Even a small amount of leaking water can result in significant freezing problems when temperatures plummet. Repairing leaks will not only protect your system from freeze damage but will also improve its overall efficiency.

6. Schedule Regular Maintenance Checks

Regular maintenance checks throughout the winter months can catch potential problems before they lead to breaks, cracks, shutdowns, and system failure. Have a professional irrigation technician inspect your system periodically to ensure all the components are in good condition and properly insulated against the cold.

7. Understand Your System and Landscape

Each business’s landscape and irrigation system is unique. Know the layout of your irrigation system and understand which areas are most susceptible to freezing. Pay special attention to those areas, as they require more diligent freeze protection efforts.

8. Educate Your Staff

Make sure your staff understands the importance of the winterization process and how to protect the irrigation system from freeze. Include training on identifying potential issues, knowing what temperatures make your system vulnerable, and appropriate steps should a freeze, pipe break, or other issue occur. Proper training will ensure that everyone is vigilant about the system’s maintenance and knows what to do in case of an unexpected freeze.

Winterize Your Irrigation System

Implementing these tips to protect your irrigation system from freezing is an investment in the longevity and reliability of your irrigation infrastructure. A well-maintained system saves money on repairs and ensures you can hit the ground running when spring arrives. Remember, proactive protection is always more cost-effective than reactive repairs. Stay warm and keep your system safe this winter by enlisting the help of the professionals at W.P. Law.

My Outdoor Drain is Clogged. Now What?

Posted on November 22, 2023December 1, 2023 by splashme@splashomnimedia.com

The chill in the air and the vibrant colors of leaves mark the onset of the fall season, which means the holidays are just around the corner. But as we get our homes ready for festive gatherings, one often overlooked chore can lead to major problems: an outdoor drain clogged with fallen leaves. If you’re experiencing this issue, you’re not alone. But there are several steps you can take to ensure a clear drain and keep your yard from turning into a mini lake.

Understanding the Problem

The primary reason for an outdoor drain getting clogged during this season is falling leaves. Especially during autumn, leaves and other debris can accumulate quickly, creating an ugly mess and blocking the essential drain for excess rainwater. This can lead to pools of stagnant water in your yard, which can damage plants, become breeding grounds for mosquitoes, and even threaten your home’s foundation.

Clearing an Outdoor Drain Clogged with Leaves

If you find your outdoor drain clogged, here’s a quick way to clear it:

Start by manually removing any visible debris from the drain’s surface.
Use a drain snake or auger to break up any clogs within the drain. Rotate the tool to latch onto the debris and pull it out.
Once you’ve cleared most of the blockage, flush the drain with a hose to push any residual debris down and out of the system.
If the clog remains stubborn, consider using a drain cleaner suitable for outdoor use or consult a professional to ensure drain clearing without causing damage.

Tips to Prevent a Flooded Yard

Regularly Clear Out Leaves: Prevention is always better than a cure. Make it a routine to clear out leaves from your yard, especially if you have many trees. Raking them away from your drains at least once a week can be highly beneficial.
Install Gutter Guards: Gutter guards can prevent leaves and larger debris from entering your drainage system. While they may not stop everything, they’ll reduce the amount of cleaning you need to do.
Use a Drain Grate: Consider installing a drain grate for outdoor drains, especially those on a flat surface. This acts as a barrier, preventing larger debris from causing blockages and allowing water to flow through.
Routine Drain Checks: Inspect your outdoor drains at least once a month as part of your lawn maintenance routine. Ensure no buildup of debris that can lead to a clog.

The Importance of a Proper Drainage System

Installing a proper drainage system isn’t just about preventing clogs; it’s about effectively and efficiently directing water away from your property. A well-designed system, including French drains or dry wells, ensures water doesn’t pool in undesirable areas. When complemented with regular maintenance, a good drainage system drastically reduces the chances of experiencing an outdoor drain clogged with leaves or other debris.

While the sight of falling leaves is undeniably beautiful, it’s essential to remember they can lead to outdoor drainage problems. But with the right preventive measures, routine checks, and a robust drainage system, you can enjoy the holidays without worrying about a flooded yard. Contact the experienced team at W.P. Law for all your drainage solutions!

Properly Watering Your Lawn This Fall

Posted on October 4, 2023October 2, 2023 by splashme@splashomnimedia.com

As the leaves start to turn and the temperatures begin to drop, homeowners in South Carolina often wonder how to care for their lawns properly. During the fall months, grass in South Carolina requires special attention to ensure it stays healthy throughout the cooler months. One crucial aspect of fall lawn care is understanding when and how watering your lawn makes a difference.

The Importance of Watering Your Lawn in the Fall

Fall lawn care isn’t just about raking leaves and preparing for winter. Your grass still needs water during this season. In South Carolina, the fall weather can be unpredictable, with occasional dry spells and lingering heat. Adequate moisture is vital to help your lawn recover from the stresses of the summer and prepare it for the dormant winter period.

When to Water Your Lawn

Timing is everything when it comes to watering your lawn in the fall. The best time to water is in the morning, ideally between 6:00 and several hours before sunset (if you irrigate several times daily). This allows your grass to absorb the moisture and dry off during the day, reducing the risk of fungal diseases that thrive in cool, damp conditions.

Be careful not to overwater. In South Carolina, you should aim for about 1 inch of water per week, including rainfall. Use a rain gauge to measure how much precipitation your lawn receives naturally. If you’re not getting enough rain, supplement it with irrigation.

When to Stop Watering Your Lawn in the South

As the fall moves into winter and temperatures continue to drop, you’ll want to gradually reduce watering frequency. You should begin tapering off your lawn watering routine in October or early November. We suggest setting your irrigation systems at 50 to 75 percent utilizing the water budget option if your controller has one.

When the nighttime temperatures consistently stay below 70°F, the grass growth rate significantly decreases. At this point, your lawn requires less water because it’s not actively growing. However, you don’t want your lawn to go into the winter season completely parched, so continue to provide light moisture until the first frost.

The Role of the Right Irrigation Products

Investing in the right irrigation products to properly water your lawn can significantly impact your grass. Because water conservation is essential, even in South Carolina, efficient irrigation systems can help you maintain a beautiful lawn while using water wisely.

Smart Irrigation Controllers: Consider upgrading to a “smart” irrigation controller that adjusts watering schedules based on weather conditions and soil moisture levels. This ensures you’re not wasting water or overwatering during the fall season.
Drip Irrigation: For precise watering in South Carolina’s varied landscape, drip irrigation systems deliver water directly to the roots, reducing water waste and promoting healthier grass.
Rain Sensors: Install rain sensors on your irrigation system to automatically pause watering when it rains, preventing overwatering and saving water and money.
Regular Maintenance: Don’t forget to regularly check your irrigation system for leaks, clogs, or broken sprinkler heads. Addressing these issues can prevent water waste and keep your lawn healthy.

Proper fall lawn care in South Carolina requires knowing when and how often you need to water your lawn. Using these tips and making intelligent choices about your irrigation system can help you enjoy a vibrant lawn that will thrive year-round in the Palmetto State. To learn more, contact your local experts at W.P. Law, Incorporated.

Why Do I Need a Sewer Pump?

Posted on April 5, 2023March 28, 2023 by splashme@splashomnimedia.com

Most homeowners have a hard time imagining something worse than a basement full of sewage. Still, it can happen, which is why you should consider a sewer pump. Here’s what you need to know.

What is a Sewer Pump?

When the municipal sewer line is located above the ground floor of your home, a sewer pump is required to pump the sewage from your home into the municipal sewer line. Sewage and other gray water waste flow by gravity from your home into a sewage basin. The sewage is then pumped into the municipal sewer line. In this application a grinder type sewage pump is used. Grinder pumps reduce the solid waste into a slurry that more easily pumped.

Where is the Sewer Pump?

Sewer pump installation is similar to that of a sump pump. The pump rests in a basin typically in the back yard and when needed, it removes the waste by forcing it up the pipes and out to the main sewer line.

Do I Need a Sewer Pump?

Suppose your home has a basement with laundry, bathrooms, a sewer line, or any rooms with plumbing that are below grade level. In that case, you probably need a sewer pump. Without one, the risk of a sewage backup is exponentially higher. And sewage is not like a regular flood. Sewage is full of bacteria and is hazardous to you, your family, and your home and requires professional cleanup and restoration.

Instead of taking a chance and hoping for the best, act now and avoid a potentially dangerous and extremely costly sewage backup situation. Contact W.P. Law today to learn more about sewer pumps and find out if you need one for your home.

How to Get the Most Out of Your Sprinkler System This Spring

Posted on March 8, 2023March 1, 2023 by splashme@splashomnimedia.com

Spring is upon us, the weather is getting warmer, and your lawn is ready for some sprinkler action. The key to keeping it beautiful is using the best lawn sprinklers and getting the most out of your sprinkler system. Here’s how to get it ready for Spring.

Check the Sprinkler Heads

Turn on the sprinkler system and turn on the water. Roll through each sprinkler zone and manually check each sprinkler head. Make sure there isn’t any dirt, grass, mud, or leaves stuck in the mechanism preventing the water from coming out. Check to ensure the sprinkler head moves up and down smoothly as you turn the water on and off. And clear any obstructions from above and around it so the water goes where you want without blockage.

Check for Leaks

As you run the sprinklers, watch for water that pools where it shouldn’t or water that leaks from the sprinkler heads instead of spraying outward. Leaks found now will prevent water waste as we move from Spring to summer and ensure proper landscaping watering.

Test the Controller

Reset the schedule on your controller to test that it’s working as it should. Check the programming and make sure the date and time are correct. Adjust run times to correspond to the season. Begin watering before sunrise, and if a second irrigation is required, finish watering early enough, so the turf dries before sunset to prevent fungal diseases.

Connect with the landscaping experts to help prepare your sprinkler system for Spring and learn about the best lawn sprinklers. Contact W.P. Law, Inc., today for all the irrigation information you need to keep your lawn and landscaping looking great all Spring and summer.

What You Need to Know Before Installing a Sump Pump

Posted on February 22, 2023February 8, 2023 by splashme@splashomnimedia.com

In the south, we can get a lot of rain in a short amount of time. Because of this, sump pump installation is necessary and beneficial in many homes, but it’s essential to understand what they are and how they work before installing one. Here’s what you need to know.

What is a Sump Pump?

A technician will install a sump pump in your home at the lowest point, usually in a basement or crawl space. It sits in what’s called a sump pit, and works by pumping out excess groundwater funneled to the pit so the water doesn’t end up in your house. Though it sits in standby mode much of the time, it kicks in when water is in the pit.

What to Know Before Installation

Sump pump installation has many benefits, but there are some factors to consider before jumping in and buying one. Here’s what you should know first:

Sump pumps are permanent, installed by drilling holes in your basement floor, which can be both good and bad. It’s good if you need the water removal it provides, but it can be a pain if you want to finish or renovate your basement, as the location can’t change.
The pumps are often loud, and you can hear them throughout the house when they turn on.
The pumps require some maintenance, including inspection and service, at least once a year, more if they run frequently.
They can save you money and frustration when they keep water out of your home. Water damage can be expensive and devastating, and sump pumps can help prevent the flooding that leads to water damage.

Contact the experienced team at W.P. Law, Inc. for more information on sump pump cost, installation, and operation and to find out if one is suitable for your home.

Irrigation Controller Settings for Winter

Posted on December 28, 2022December 9, 2022 by splashme@splashomnimedia.com

The winter months mean the leaves are off the trees, the flowers are all gone, and the grass is brown and dormant, especially in cold climates. Here in South Carolina, with our mild climate, things may look similar. Understanding what to do with your irrigation controller can be a game changer come spring.

Prepping Your Irrigation System

While the grass in your landscaping may look dead, it’s anything but. Popular grasses in the south include Bermuda, Centipede, St. Augustine, and Zoysia, all of which become dormant in the winter. And to the casual observer, they do appear dead, but they’re still alive. And they need occasional irrigation, so you shouldn’t completely shut down your irrigation system.

The Right Irrigation Controller Settings for Winter

It’s a challenge to set your irrigation controller for the winter because watering your grass depends on many things, including the weather. For example, if the winter is wet with lots of precipitation, your grass won’t need as much watering. Instead, you can set it to “rain” and adjust it as needed. Another option is investing in a “smart” controller. With soil moisture sensors and weather stations, the system turns itself on when the grass needs water. The controller runs the irrigation cycles based on need, saving you time and money on water while keeping your grass alive and healthy so it can thrive in the spring.

Reach out to W.P. Law, Inc. for more information on sprinkler controllers and how to prep your irrigation controller for winter.

Dos and Don’ts: Winter Water Feature Care

Posted on December 14, 2022December 9, 2022 by splashme@splashomnimedia.com

Winterization of your water feature can mean different things depending on the climate. For example, in South Carolina’s mild climate, we can still get cold and even freezing temperatures in the winter months.

Winter Water Feature Care Dos

Do consider leaving the system running through winter. It still requires maintenance, whether you shut it down or leave it on. However, when you keep it running, you get to enjoy the aesthetics of your beautiful water feature every season.
Do- clear away the leaves, grass, and debris from the water and filter regularly, especially in the fall when the trees are still shedding their leaves for several weeks.
Do trim foliage and landscaping around the stream, pond, fountain, or water feature to reduce the risk of damage.

Winter Stream Care Don’ts

Don’t shut the water feature down when a cold snap approaches. In frigid climates, shutting a water feature down in the winter is essential to prevent the pipes from freezing and bursting. However, the water running through the lines in our mild climate keeps it from freezing, even when the temperature dips.
Don’t neglect to invest in a pond heater or deicer, especially if you have fish. It will open a bigger hole than the pump alone will.
Don’t hesitate to call on water feature experts if you have any questions or concerns during the colder winter months.

You can winterize your water feature to prevent damage and avoid a complete winter shutdown. With proper water feature winter care, you can enjoy your feature year-round. Contact the W.P . Law, Inc. team to learn more about how to prep your water feature for the cold.

2 Benefits to Irrigating Before a Cold Snap

Posted on November 23, 2022October 31, 2022 by splashme@splashomnimedia.com

Taking steps to irrigate before cold weather can be a crucial step to protect your lawn and crops from frost and colder temperatures. It may seem counterintuitive, but experienced farmers know irrigating crops will initially cause the temperature in the fields to decrease as evaporation occurs and then increase as the air temperature lowers during a cold front. However, once you understand how it works, you can use irrigation to your advantage as the temperatures drop.

Here are two noteworthy benefits your plants and lawn experience when you irrigate before cold weather:

#1: Frost Damage Prevention

Because water releases heat at a slower rate than air, watering your lawn can provide natural insulation that prevents frost damage. Irrigating one or two days before a cold snap will allow enough time for saturation and thorough insulation from frigid temperatures. In addition, with the slower heat release, the plants and grass blades have more warmth for longer periods, protecting them from frost.

#2: Root Hydration

Did you know drought-stressed plants are more susceptible to cold damage? Irrigation provides your lawn and plants the moisture they need to become stronger and healthier. Think of pre-freeze irrigation as an immune system booster! The healthier the plant cells are, the stronger the plants are and the more quickly they can fight off damage from frost and cold weather.

Implementing proper irrigation is an excellent way to keep your lawn and crops healthy all year. Contact the friendly irrigation experts at W.P. Law to get started with a plan to irrigate before a cold front and give your plants all the protection they need.

Why You Should Winterize Your Irrigation System

Posted on November 9, 2022October 31, 2022 by splashme@splashomnimedia.com

The growing season is over, but have you taken steps to winterize your irrigation system? Doing this is a crucial part of your annual lawn care that many homeowners neglect and then regret.

If you forget to winterize irrigation, it can lead to a damaged irrigation system that won’t work correctly when you need it again in the spring. Take a closer look at the benefits of winterizing your irrigation system and the steps to take for a successful winterization process.

Cold Climates: Winterization for Northern Areas

In the frigid temperatures of northern areas, your irrigation system won’t stand a chance without proper winterization. Water remaining in the pipes will freeze and expand and can cause everything from pipes and backflow devices to sprinkler valves and heads to burst or crack. As a result, you may have to deal with costly repairs and replacements.

Mild Climates: Winterization for Southern Areas

Even the mild climates in southern areas have the occasional hard freeze during the early morning hours. Maybe it doesn’t freeze for long, but the water remaining inside the irrigation system can still create irreparable damage to the system. That’s why winterization is crucial to protecting your irrigation, even if you live in the south.

Schedule Expert Services to Winterize the Irrigation System

Professional winterization will ensure the entire irrigation system is empty and ready for the winter, so it will start back up without issues in the spring.

Let the experts at W.P. Law, Inc. help you winterize your irrigation system effectively. Contact W.P. Law, Inc. today.