Backflow Preventer Quick Drain Instructions

Referencing the diagram below, follow these instruction to perform a quick drain of your system:

Step 1: Using your sprinkler key, shut off sprinkler water supply valve (1) by turning to the right. (usually located 3-4 feet in the ground)

Step 2: Open the drain valve (2) located typically located next to the main valve. (sometimes this is in a separate tube) 

Step 3: Locate the test ports (3) on your backflow preventer and turn them to 45 degrees. (use a flat head screw driver) 

Step 4: Turn both isolation valves (4) to 45 degrees. (if they are hard to turn, you can use channel lock pliers)

Step 5: Go to your controller and run a manual a manual cycle. (This will open  the valve solenoids and allow gravity to drain some of the remaining water)

Step 6: (OPTIONAL): Wrap your backflow preventer with an old blanket, towel, etc. then cover it with a garbage bag, bucket, garbage can, etc. (This step will help insulate and keep snow/ice from accumulating)

IMPORTANT: THIS IS NOT A SUBSTITUTE FOR BLOWING OUT YOUR SPRINKLER SYSTEM. You will still need to have your sprinkler system blown out! The quick drain is meant to be a temporary solution that will help prevent freeze damage in your backflow preventer before we can come out and finish your winterization.