Key points
- Backflow preventers sit where the sprinkler system tees off the water supply.
- Water left in them over winter can freeze and crack the body or valves.
- Spring startup is when the crack shows up, sometimes inside or against the house.
- Open the valve slowly and watch for leaks the first time.
Warning signs
- Water spraying or dripping from the backflow device at startup
- Wet basement wall on the side where the sprinkler line enters
- Water bill jump in spring
- Soggy areas near the foundation — see sprinkler leaks near the foundation
Prevention
- Have the system blown out and drained every fall
- Insulate exposed backflow devices
- Turn the supply on slowly in spring and check every fitting
If water got inside
Shut the irrigation supply valve, call an irrigation contractor, and call us. Basement drywall, carpet pad and insulation dry best when the water is extracted quickly — see finished basement water damage. Vault documents the damage, records daily moisture readings, scopes in Xactimate, and bills State Farm, USAA, Allstate, Farmers, and Bear River Mutual directly.
Real example: Lindon case study: irrigation backflow at spring startup.
Basement wet after startup?
Call (385) 250-2825 — answered live 24/7 by the Vault crew.
Water damage services · Hose bib leaks · Dry out a wet basement