any sprinkler system gurus?

[bryanthompson]

I have this Rain Bird sprinkler system that I haven't used yet, and am trying to figure out. Last winter, I follwed the instructions left by the PO of the house to winterize the system, so I should have been okay there. He didn't say to remove the Pressure Vacuum Breaker, but I see in the manual I just downloaded that I probably should have.

After mowing today, I closed the valves that I remembered opening to let the system drain for winter, then I turned the water to the system on. Pretty much right away, water started coming out from the top of the Pressure Vacuum Breaker thing, so I'm thinking there may be a problem. I turned the water off and the leak stopped, so that's where I am right now.

Here's what the breaker valve looks like:

link (3rd down, not sure of the size I have)

It looks like I can get a new one for around $100. Does anyone service these valves? Maybe I just need seals or something. Maybe the problem isn't even in the unit, I don't know for sure. I left a message with one of the lawn service places, but I'd like to do everything myself if I can.

[Joeaksa]

I have overhauled two of mine several times. Its a different style than yours so cannot tell you directly but its worth a shot. Unless the outside casting is cracked would hope that its rebuildable.

Joe A

[JeremyD]

Just replace them = it will cost more to fix than replace. Sprinkler systems are pretty much plug and play. Something dies, replace it

[bryanthompson]

cool, thanks guys. I've been doing more reading, and it looks like the the parts that are made to wear out did. I'll take it off and ask the sprinkler store if they have a replacement.

[Don Ro]

'Depends on from where the water was flowing out of the breaker...and for how long you had the main water source on.

I'm wondering if what you witnessed was simply a relief valve/check valve, within the breaker, appropriately actuating and discharging upon being pressurized. If so, it may not be broken.

Then again...

[tabs]

Sooo thats what those things are...U say you should have removed it....ahhhhooooooo....hmmm What am I worried about I don't even have a sprinkler system that works. U turn on the valve and water comes out the end of a broken pipe.

I call my landscaping "Desert Landscaping" cause everything is dead out there.

[bryanthompson]

That's true, don... i better check some more before I get too crazy with the wrenches.