As the crisp autumn air signals the end of the growing season, a crucial task awaits every homeowner with an irrigation system: winterizing your sprinklers. Ignoring this step can lead to costly damage, from cracked pipes to burst valves, when freezing temperatures inevitably arrive.
We know the thought of tackling sprinkler maintenance can seem daunting, but it’s a straightforward process that, when done correctly, ensures your system is ready to spring back to life when warmer weather returns. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to successfully winterize your sprinklers, saving you time, money, and stress down the line.
Why Winterizing Your Sprinklers Is Essential
Winterizing your sprinkler system isn’t just a good idea; it’s a critical preventative measure. The primary culprit behind potential damage is **water freezing inside your pipes and components**. When water freezes, it expands, and this expansion exerts immense pressure. If water is trapped within your sprinkler lines, this pressure can easily cause pipes to burst, valves to crack, and even damage your backflow preventer. The cost of repairing these damages can far outweigh the effort of a simple winterization process.
Beyond preventing physical damage, winterizing also helps to:
- Extend the lifespan of your system: By protecting components from harsh winter conditions, you reduce wear and tear.
- Prevent costly repairs: Burst pipes and damaged valves are expensive to replace.
- Ensure a smooth start-up in spring: A properly winterized system is less likely to have issues when you turn it back on.
- Avoid water hammer: Trapped water can lead to water hammer when the system is turned on in spring, causing further stress.
When Should You Winterize Your Sprinklers?
The ideal time to winterize your sprinklers is after the first hard frost, but before the ground freezes solid. This usually falls between late October and early December in most temperate climates, but it’s always best to check your local weather patterns. You want to ensure that all plants have had their last watering and that temperatures are consistently dipping below freezing overnight.
A good rule of thumb is to look for consistent nighttime temperatures below 28°F (-2°C) for several days. This indicates that freezing is likely to occur and persist.
How to Winterize Sprinklers: A Step-by-Step Guide
There are two primary methods for winterizing sprinkler systems: manual draining and air compressor blowout. The air compressor method is generally considered the most effective and thorough way to remove all water, but it requires specific equipment. We’ll cover both.
Method 1: Manual Draining (for Simpler Systems or When an Air Compressor Isn’t Available)
This method relies on gravity to drain water from the system. It’s less effective than the air blowout but can be sufficient for very basic systems or as a supplementary step.
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Turn Off the Water Supply.
Locate the main water shut-off valve for your sprinkler system. This is often found near your main water meter or where the irrigation system connects to your home’s water supply. Turn the valve completely off.
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Drain the Backflow Preventer.
Most sprinkler systems have a backflow preventer, usually located near the main shut-off valve. These devices are crucial for preventing contaminated water from entering your drinking water supply. They are also susceptible to freezing. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for draining your specific model. This often involves opening bleed valves or unscrewing small caps to allow water to escape. (See Also: how to turn on sprinklers after winter)
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Open drain valves (if present).
Some sprinkler systems are designed with manual drain valves, typically located at the lowest points of the system. If you have these, open them to allow gravity to do its work. If you don’t have specific drain valves, you’ll need to rely on opening the sprinkler heads themselves in the next step.
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Manually drain sprinkler heads.
Turn on your sprinkler system at the controller, zone by zone. As water begins to flow (or trickle out), quickly turn off each zone after a minute or two. This helps to flush out some of the water. Then, manually unscrew or loosen the sprinkler heads in each zone. Allow any remaining water to drain out. Be prepared for a small amount of water to come out. You can place a towel underneath to catch it.
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Drain the pipes.
If you have any low-lying pipes that aren’t connected to sprinkler heads, you may need to find and open these to allow water to drain. This is less common but important if your system has such features.
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Leave all valves open.
It’s crucial to leave all drain valves, manual drain points, and any loosened sprinkler heads open throughout the winter. This allows any residual moisture to escape and prevents pressure buildup from freezing water.
Method 2: Air Compressor Blowout (recommended for Most Systems)
This is the most effective method for ensuring all water is removed from your sprinkler system. It requires an air compressor with a capacity of at least 100 PSI and a properly sized air fitting (often a “blowout plug”). If you’re not comfortable using an air compressor, it’s best to hire a professional.
Safety First: Always wear safety glasses when working with compressed air. Ensure your air compressor is capable of the required PSI, and never exceed the recommended pressure for your sprinkler system components, as this can cause damage.
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Turn off the water supply.
Just like with manual draining, the first step is to shut off the main water supply to your irrigation system. Locate the valve and turn it completely off.
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Drain the backflow preventer.
Drain the backflow preventer according to its manufacturer’s instructions. This is essential as these units can be costly to replace if they freeze and crack.
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Disconnect the system from the water source.
At the point where your irrigation system connects to the main water line (after the shut-off valve and backflow preventer), you’ll need to disconnect the system. This is typically done by unscrewing a pipe fitting. This prevents pressurized water from being forced back into your home’s main water line. (See Also: how much psi to blow out sprinklers)
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Connect the air compressor.
Attach your air compressor’s hose to the disconnected pipe using a blowout plug or appropriate fitting. Ensure a tight seal to prevent air from escaping.
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Set the air compressor pressure.
Set your air compressor to the correct PSI. For most residential sprinkler systems, 30-50 PSI is recommended. Consult your system’s manual or the manufacturer of your sprinkler components for specific recommendations. Over-pressurizing can cause significant damage.
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Turn on the air compressor and open zones one by one.
Turn on the air compressor. Go to your sprinkler controller and activate each zone, one at a time. You’ll see water being forced out of the sprinkler heads. Continue to run the air through each zone until you no longer see any water misting from the heads, and only dry air is coming out. This usually takes a few minutes per zone.
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Turn off the air compressor and disconnect.
Once all zones have been blown out, turn off the air compressor. Disconnect the air hose from the system. Reconnect the sprinkler system to the main water line, ensuring a secure fit.
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Turn off the controller.
Ensure your sprinkler controller is turned off for the winter. If it has a battery backup, consider removing it to prevent corrosion, or simply ensure it’s set to “off” or “rain delay” mode.
Winterizing Specific Sprinkler Components
Beyond the main pipes and heads, certain components require special attention:
Backflow Preventer
As mentioned, the backflow preventer is a critical and often expensive component. Most have small bleed valves that need to be opened to drain them. Some larger models may require specific procedures, so always refer to the manufacturer’s instructions. If you have an above-ground backflow preventer, you might consider wrapping it with an insulating blanket after draining to provide an extra layer of protection against extreme cold.
Drip Irrigation Systems
Drip irrigation systems are generally more forgiving than traditional sprinkler systems, but they still need winterizing. The small emitters can clog or be damaged by freezing. The process is similar: shut off the water, drain the main lines, and consider removing emitters or flushing them with compressed air if possible. Some recommend leaving the system slightly pressurized with air throughout the winter if it’s buried, but this is a more advanced technique.
Rain Sensors
Rain sensors are designed to detect rain and shut off your sprinklers. While they are generally weather-resistant, it’s a good practice to disconnect them or cover them with a plastic bag to protect them from prolonged exposure to harsh winter elements like ice and snow. Check your specific model’s manual for recommended winterization procedures. (See Also: how long should you run sprinklers)
Valves
The solenoid valves that control each zone are particularly vulnerable. The air blowout method is excellent for ensuring water is removed from the valve bodies. If you’ve manually drained, ensure the valve boxes are as clear of water as possible. Some homeowners choose to insulate valve boxes, especially if they are above ground or in very cold climates.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even with the best intentions, mistakes can happen. Here are some common pitfalls to steer clear of:
| Mistake | Consequence | How to Avoid |
|---|---|---|
| Not turning off the main water supply. | Pressurized water can be forced back into your home’s plumbing, or the compressor can damage the system. | Always shut off the main water valve first. |
| Using too much air pressure. | Can burst pipes, crack valve bodies, and damage sprinkler heads. | Adhere to recommended PSI (typically 30-50 PSI). |
| Not draining all zones thoroughly. | Trapped water will freeze and expand, causing damage. | Ensure dry air is coming from all heads before moving to the next zone. |
| Forgetting to drain the backflow preventer. | The backflow preventer is a common point of failure and can be expensive to replace. | Always drain the backflow preventer according to manufacturer instructions. |
| Leaving drain valves open. | While you want to leave them open to allow drainage, ensure they are secured so they don’t get damaged or filled with debris. | Ensure all drain points are open but protected from the elements. |
| Not checking for leaks after reconnecting in spring. | Small leaks can go unnoticed and waste water. | Always perform a thorough system check and run all zones before the growing season. |
When to Call a Professional
While winterizing sprinklers is a manageable DIY task for many, there are situations where calling a professional is the wisest choice:
- Complex Systems: If you have a large, intricate, or commercial-grade irrigation system, professional winterization is recommended.
- Lack of Equipment: If you don’t have access to a suitable air compressor or the necessary fittings, hiring a pro is more cost-effective than buying or renting.
- Unfamiliarity: If you’re unsure about any step of the process or are uncomfortable working with plumbing or compressed air, a professional can ensure the job is done correctly and safely.
- Time Constraints: If you’re short on time, a professional can complete the task quickly and efficiently.
- Concerns about Damage: If you suspect your system may already have minor issues, a professional can identify and address them during the winterization process.
Many landscaping and irrigation companies offer winterization services as part of their fall maintenance packages. It’s often a small investment that can save you a significant headache and expense come springtime.
Preparing for Spring Start-Up
Once your sprinklers are safely winterized, take a moment to think about spring. When the time comes to turn your system back on, you’ll want to:
- Inspect all sprinkler heads: Ensure they are clean, free of debris, and properly aligned.
- Check for damage: Look for any signs of cracks or breaks in pipes or components.
- Slowly turn on the water: Open the main water valve gradually to allow the system to fill slowly, minimizing the risk of water hammer.
- Run each zone: Turn on each zone from the controller and check for leaks, proper spray patterns, and adequate coverage.
- Adjust as needed: Make any necessary adjustments to sprinkler heads, nozzles, or watering schedules.
By following these steps, you’ll ensure a smooth and efficient transition from winter dormancy to active watering when your lawn and garden need it most.
Conclusion
Winterizing your sprinklers is a vital maintenance task that protects your investment from the damaging effects of freezing temperatures. By following the steps for either manual draining or, preferably, the air compressor blowout method, you can effectively remove water from your system and prevent costly repairs. Don’t underestimate the importance of this seasonal chore; a little effort now will ensure your sprinkler system is ready to perform beautifully when spring arrives.
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