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Photo: Tuk69tuk/Getty ImagesAs temperatures drop, it’s essential to prepare your sprinkler system for winter. Properly draining and safeguarding it from freezing conditions ensures your lawn and irrigation system remain in top shape for the spring season.
“Water in sprinkler systems expands when frozen, which can crack pipes and ruin sprinkler heads,” explains Ryan Farley, CEO of LawnStarter. “This often leads to costly repairs or complete system replacements by spring.”
After months of use during summer and fall, shutting down your sprinkler system for winter is crucial, particularly in regions with freezing temperatures. Below, experts outline the steps to winterize your system effectively.
Essential Tools and Supplies
Tools and Equipment
- Air compressor (80 to 100 CFM rating)
- Foam insulation covers or tape for insulation
Supplies
- Safety goggles and gloves
- User manual for the sprinkler system
Step-by-Step Guide
Getting Ready
Stop the Water Flow
To begin winterizing your sprinkler system, start by cutting off the water supply. Locate and close the main water valve, typically found near the water meter. Additionally, ensure any backflow prevention valves are also turned off.
“The process depends on your system’s setup, but the key is to shut down the primary water line that supplies the sprinkler system,” Farley explains. “For above-ground systems, it’s advisable to dismantle and store them inside during winter.”
Deactivate the Timer
If your sprinkler system operates on a timer, deactivate it. Ensure the system is powered down without losing your programmed settings. If your system includes a “rain mode,” activate this setting.
Empty the System
The method for draining your sprinkler system varies based on its type. Options include manual, automatic, or blow-out draining. Refer to your user manual for detailed guidance on the appropriate draining procedure.
- Manual Draining: For manual draining, turn off the water supply and gradually open valves at the low points and ends of the pipes to release water. “To find shut-off valves, review your system’s layout plan or installation manual,” Lamprey suggests. “Usually, the main shut-off valve is near the water meter or where the water enters the house." If you’re uncertain, he recommends following the irrigation piping from the water source.Always wear protective gear when draining your sprinkler system. Use safety goggles and gloves to shield yourself from pressurized water or debris, Lamprey advises. Also, confirm the system is completely powered off before starting any work.
- Automatic Draining: Systems with automatic draining require less effort than manual ones. However, you still need to take steps to remove all water before freezing temperatures arrive. Activate the draining system by running a sprinkler head without water. To clear water from the valves, loosen the solenoid on each valve to let air in and water out.
- Blow-Out Draining: Blow-out draining can eliminate any leftover water in the system. This method is best handled by a professional to avoid damaging pipes or components. Check your user manual to determine if blow-out draining is suitable for your system. “Blow-out draining can be done with a standard home air compressor,” Farley notes. “As long as you maintain 40 to 50 PSI in the lines, you’re safe. Higher pressure risks damaging your pipes.” If attempting blow-out draining, use an air compressor rated at 80 to 100 CFM (cubic feet per minute) and wear protective eyewear.Process one zone at a time, Farley recommends. “Blowing out the entire system at once strains the compressor and makes it difficult to identify and fix issues,” Farley explains. “Turn off the compressor once most of the water is expelled." Prolonged air pressure can overheat and deform the pipes, he adds.
Protect Above-Ground Parts
Safeguard the above-ground parts of your sprinkler system by covering them with foam insulation or insulation tape. Make sure air vents and drain outlets remain unobstructed.
“Wrap components such as backflow preventers, valves, and exposed pipes with insulation,” Lamprey advises.
Final Steps and Expert Assistance
Since every sprinkler system operates differently, refer to your user manual for detailed steps on draining and winterizing your system.
Opt for Professional Assistance
Engaging a professional is often the most effective method to winterize your sprinkler system and ensure complete water drainage. You can locate a nearby lawn care service or opt for a national provider like TruGreen to handle seasonal sprinkler maintenance. A professional can identify and resolve any system issues, ensuring it’s ready for winter.
“Homeowners are strongly advised to hire a professional for sprinkler system winterization,” Lamprey states. “Experts possess the necessary training, tools, and antifreeze solutions to safely and thoroughly prepare the system for winter." They can also detect and fix any existing problems before freezing temperatures arrive. DIY winterization requires plumbing and irrigation expertise that many homeowners may lack.
