Winter affects the irrigation systems in the UK climate negatively, may be causing frost damages in pipes, sprinklers, tap connections, solenoids and so on. As the most costly problem when it happens with the pump, then it worth to get to know the winter cycle kit.
Challenges of Winter Freeze for Submersible Irrigation Pumps
Submersible irrigation pumps play a vital role in ensuring efficient water distribution for your garden. However, as winter approaches, the freeze can pose specific challenge to these pumps even when the system is out of use.
Freezing temperatures can cause the water inside the pump to freeze, leading to internal damage. Ice expansion within the pump may result in cracks, fractures, or damage to the impeller and other components.
The Simple Solution
Submersible pumps sit in the water inside the tank even during winter. Regardless from the tank position (over or underground), the water also provide a protection layer to the pump. When freezing cause damage to the pump, then it happens slowly. It needs a very low temperature for long hours till the tank completely frozen.
It's not very often in the UK, but may happen. To prevent the complete freezing, the simple solution is rotating the water in the tank. The winter cycle kit will achieve this goal for you.
How the Winter Cycle Kit Works?
The kit includes two isolators and a bypass pipe. This pipe act as a filler, originated form the primary irrigation pipe, after the pump outlet and hanging inside the tank. One of the isolators closes this pipe during the season, whilst the other can close the direction to rest of the irrigation system.
At the autumn drainage, the system will be drained and the 2nd isolator closed. Getting the water into the irrigation system is prevented this way. By opening the 1st valve, a route is provided for the pumped water to get back into the tank. The pump starting will swirl the water inside the tank, preventing it from freezing. Additionally, it ensures that the pump components are regularly moved, preventing the pump from getting stuck.
The final step is programming the pump to run at least once a day for a few minutes. Programming only one zone to run for the desirable time is easy because the zone will never start to run anyway (because the pipework is isolated by the 2nd isolator tap).
And What To Do In Spring?
Just act reverse and the pump will be ready to work. For spring opening measures, read this article.
Prerequisites Of A Winter Cycle Kit
Winter cycle kits cannot be installed on systems equipped with auto-start pumps or pressure switches unless a master valve is involved. The kit must be installed after the master valve in this case.
Irrigation system professionals can install winter cycle kits on systems with relay-driven pumps as a breeze.
By adopting this proactive measures, you can safeguard your submersible irrigation pump from the challenge posed by winter freeze. Ensuring good shape of your pump even in cold weather conditions is essential for maintaining an efficient and effective garden irrigation system.