Yesterday went better than the day before in the 83706, but I still had some setbacks. Water is blowing out fine, but running into frozen shut valve boxes that have to be "chisled" free. It is surprising how much time it takes for blowouts during colder weather. I would guess it averages around 1.5 times longer per sprinkler blowout than in optimum conditions.
I was on one job for almost 45 minutes, but not because of system issues. I went up to a home to do the sprinkler blowout when I heard what seemed like every smoke detector in the house going at the same time. This was a duplex, and I believe someone was home in the second unit. No one answered the door, so I tried the phone number given to me at signup and still nothing. So, I called the Boise Fire Department to have them investigate. 
My customer finally called me back and gave me the garage code for the sprinkler blowout which also gave the fire department a way in through the unlocked garage door instead of using their lockpicks. (Axe and crowbar) I am also a locksmith, but their "lockpicks" are faster. While the fire department investigated, I completed the blowout. Fortunately, the smoke detectors we malfunctioning, and no fire was present. Good news!
I have mentioned many times, and led customers to the post regarding pre-winterizing backflows, pumps, vacuum breakers and filters, but not everyone is paying attention. Now, unfortunately, a few will be paying the price. Here is a perfect example 
of what can happen. All that needed to happen was the cap on the filter removed and drained before the temperature drop. Now, everthing from the pump to the filter are frozen. It will not be able to be blown out until it thaws, or heat tape or a hair dryer is used to speed up the melting process. Once it is melted, and the filter assembly removed, the sprinkler blowout can continue.
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How many sprinkler blowouts we have, number completed, number left, AND tentative schedule when to expect us. All sorted by zip code: http://www.treasurevalleyrepairs.com/blog/?p=1400
How to help protect your sprinkler system while waiting for a sprinkler blowout: http://www.treasurevalleyrepairs.com/blog/?p=146
