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Do You Need to Winterize Your Sprinkler System?

Winterizing your sprinkler system is one of the most important steps to protect it from freezing temperatures. Without proper preparation, water left inside the pipes can freeze and expand, leading to cracked pipes, damaged valves and broken sprinkler heads.

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Come springtime, these issues could cost you hundreds — if not thousands — in repairs. To avoid these problems, proper winterization is key.

How to Winterize Your Lawn Irrigation System

Step 1: Shut Off the Water Supply

Begin by turning off the main water supply to your sprinkler system. You’ll typically find the shut-off valve near your water meter. This step ensures no more water will enter the system, reducing the risk of freezing.

Step 2: Release Trapped Water from the Backflow Preventer

After shutting off the water, you’ll need to release any water trapped inside the backflow preventer. This device is designed to stop contaminated water from flowing back into your home’s clean water supply. Typically located near your main shut-off valve, the backflow preventer is usually outside or in a utility area. It often looks like a brass or plastic valve assembly with handles and test cocks. Open the test cocks and shut-off valves to allow any remaining water to escape. Leaving the valves at a 45-degree angle afterward will help prevent any trapped water from freezing.

Step 3: Turn Off the Timer or Controller

If your irrigation system operates on an automated timer or controller, it’s important to disable it for the winter. Some systems feature a “rain mode,” which allows you to stop the system from running while keeping your settings intact for the following season. If you forget this step, the system could try to water your lawn during freezing weather and potentially cause significant damage.

Step 4: Inspect the System for Damage

Before you drain the system, inspect your sprinkler heads, valves, and any other visible components. Look for cracked heads, leaks, or other signs of wear. Fix any damage before winterizing, as a broken head or valve could allow water to remain in the system and increase the risk of freezing and bursting pipes.

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Step 5: Drain or Blow Out the System

Once your irrigation system is shut down and inspected, you can drain it using one of three methods: manual draining, automatic draining, or the blow-out method. Each method works, but the right one depends on your system’s configuration.

Manual draining systems usually have drain valves located at the lowest points of your system, which you’ll need to open to release the water. If you notice valves along your pipes or near sprinkler heads, especially at low points, you likely have a manual drain system.

Automatic drain systems, on the other hand, release water automatically when the water pressure drops below a certain level, meaning you won’t see as many drain valves. To determine if you should use the manual method, check your system’s manual or inspect your pipes for these valves.

The blow-out method uses compressed air to remove water from the irrigation system. This is the most thorough approach and can be used on both automatic and manual drain sprinkler systems, but it requires extra caution and the right equipment.

Manual Drain

  • Locate the Drain Valves. Find the valves at the lowest points in your system. These valves are specifically designed to release water from the pipes.
  • Release the Water. Open each valve slowly to allow the pressurized water to escape. It’s a good idea to wear safety goggles during this step, as water can spray out with force.
  • Close the Valves Once Drained. When water stops flowing from each valve, close them tightly to prevent air or water from re-entering. Make sure to check all zones to ensure that no water remains trapped in the pipes. Even a small amount of water left in the pipes can freeze, so be thorough.

Automatic Drain

  • Turn Off the Main Water Valve. Once the water supply is shut off, run one of the sprinkler heads to relieve pressure. The automatic drain valves will open to let out the water.
  • Manually Check for Trapped Water. While the automatic valves will drain the majority of water, there may still be some left in areas like solenoids (small electric components that control water flow in the system’s valves). Loosen and check these areas to ensure all the water is removed.

Blow-Out Method

  • Safety First. This method can be hazardous if not done properly. Always wear protective eye gear and hearing protection, as compressed air can force water out of the sprinkler heads at high speeds, potentially causing injury. Keep children and pets away from the area.
  • Use the Correct Air Compressor. To use this method, you’ll need an air compressor that delivers at least 10 cubic feet per minute (CFM) of airflow. Be sure to adjust the pressure to suit your pipes – 50 psi for polyethylene pipes and 80 psi for PVC pipes. Using too much pressure can result in bursting pipes or damaged sprinkler heads.
  • Blow Out the System. Start by attaching the air compressor to the system using the appropriate adapter. Begin with the sprinkler head farthest from the compressor and open the zone one by one. Gradually increase the air pressure to push the water out of the pipes. Make sure to wear protective goggles and stand clear of the sprinkler heads during this process.
  • Double-Check All Zones. Move through each zone methodically, ensuring all water has been expelled. Any leftover water can freeze and expand, causing damage over the winter. Once the blow-out process is finished, go back and check each zone again for residual water.

Step 6: Clear Remaining Water and Insulate Exposed Parts

Once the draining or blow-out process is complete, it’s crucial to ensure no water remains in the pipes, valves, or sprinkler heads. Even a small amount of trapped water can freeze, expand, and cause cracks or leaks. After ensuring your system is free of water, consider insulating exposed parts such as backflow preventers, outdoor valves, and pipes.

Foam covers, insulation tape, or even straw can help protect these components from freezing temperatures. Be careful not to block any air vents or drainage outlets, as this can interfere with the system’s function.

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