Winterizing your pumping system

Now far be it from me to tell you how to winterize your complete system since every system is different and some need to be completely drained to prevent freezing.  Due to that, you’re on your own as far as the plumbing except one important item that seems to get overlooked all to often.... your pressure transducer.

For all of you that have a Variable Frequency Controller running your pumping system and using PID, your system has a pressure transducer that needs to be drained.  Some of these are easily done if the plumbing is done correctly with a drain valve and a shut-off valve isolating the transducer from the system.  Others of you may need to remove it and let it drain out.  If you don't, freezing can ruin the diaphragm inside it and you will need to replace it next season and this is costly.  My advice, get it done. 

I have a diagram of how I plumb this in conjunction with a pressure gauge.  If anyone needs this, drop me a note and I will get it to you.

Regarding your drive.......
If it or they are located outside, a descant bag or two is good to throw in the box to control moisture.  Cover the entire air inlet and outlet ports with rodent proof material so your drive doesn't become a winter play ground for them.  Shutting down the drive for the winter does no harm if you keep it as dry as possible.  The temperature really is not a factor in our area and should cause no concern. 

Lock up the box if there is a chance of vandalism.  Copper is worth a considerable amount of money and people are desperate.  I cannot believe how many jobsites are being preyed upon for the wire.  Seems crazy to me but it happens everyday.

Before the next irrigation season gets started, I will post some items to look for and do prior to starting you system back up…. Look for it and if you need or want that plumbing schematic, let me know.

Scott

Pictures and updates

If you would like to see some pictures of items we have built lately or are just wondering what is going on, go to our Facebook page.  We have posted pictures there as it is easier to do it there and that seems to be where most check first.

I will continue to post articles on this blog as I like this format and Facebook seems a bit informal to me so it is kinda "just for fun".

To find us on Facebook, login to your account and search for ectsales and it should come up.  There is also a link on the home page of the website (I think).  I know there is a "like" button and I think it takes you there but I may be wrong.

We are gearing up for agricultural pump panel needs shortly after the first of the year.  We met with one of our major suppliers today (WEG) and hammered out our needs for the upcoming season.  Seem early to be thinking about it, not really due to leadtimes, target area focus and forcasts.  We start ordering what we think we will need soon to take care of the needs of next spring....that's what keeps us ahead of the game. 

Let me know if there is something you would like me to write about and I will gladly do it.  In the next week or so, I will be writing about winterizing your VFC's for off-season storage (or non-use).  Be looking for it.

Scott