Essential Steps for Homeowners to Prepare Your Irrigation System for Winter

SUMMARY

As the crisp air of fall settles in and the days get shorter, many homeowners begin to focus on preparing their homes for winter. One of the most important tasks on your to-do list should be winterizing your irrigation system. Proper preparation ensures that your irrigation system remains in good condition through the cold months and that it is ready to go as soon as the first signs of spring arrive. Failing to prepare your system for the winter can lead to costly repairs due to freeze damage. In this blog post, we’ll walk through the essential steps to winterize your irrigation system, helping you protect your investment and avoid unexpected issues come spring.

Step By Step

Turn Off the Water Supply

The first and most obvious step in preparing your irrigation system for winter is to shut off the water supply. If your irrigation system is connected to your home’s water supply, locate the valve that controls the water flow to your irrigation system. This is usually located near the water meter or main water shutoff valve. Turning off the water supply ensures that no water remains in the system, preventing it from freezing and causing damage.

Shut Off the Main Valve

Find the main water valve that supplies your irrigation system and turn it off completely. This will stop water from flowing into your pipes and sprinkler heads. Be sure to check the valve and surrounding area for any signs of wear or corrosion, as these could indicate potential issues that might need to be addressed before the system is turned back on in the spring.

Turn Off the Backflow Preventer

You also need to turn off the backflow preventer. This component is designed to stop water from flowing backward into your home’s water supply. In many cases, it will have its own shutoff valve. Make sure the backflow preventer is securely turned off, as it helps protect both your irrigation system and your home’s water supply from contamination.

Drain the System

Once the water supply is turned off, the next crucial step is to drain any remaining water from your irrigation system. This is especially important for systems in areas that experience freezing temperatures, as water left behind can freeze, expand, and cause damage.
Manual Drainage Method

For some irrigation systems, you may be able to manually drain the water from the pipes by opening the drain valves. This allows the remaining water to flow out of the pipes and sprinkler heads. After opening the drain valves, walk along the irrigation lines to ensure that all water has been drained from the system. This is a necessary step for preventing freezing, and it may take some time to ensure that all the water has been expelled from the system.

Use an Air Compressor

If your system has an automatic drain feature or if you want to ensure that all water is fully cleared out of the pipes, using an air compressor is a good option. By attaching an air compressor to the system’s blowout valve, you can blow out any remaining water from the pipes. This method is highly effective in preventing water from remaining in the system, which could freeze and cause damage. It is advisable to hire a professional to perform this process if you’re not familiar with it, as over-pressurizing the system can lead to damage.

Protecting Your System

Insulate the System

After draining the system, you’ll need to protect the pipes and other components from freezing temperatures. Insulation is key to ensuring that your irrigation system survives the winter without damage. This step is especially important for systems in areas where temperatures regularly drop below freezing.
Insulate Above-Ground Components

Any components of your irrigation system that are above ground, such as sprinkler heads, valves, and backflow preventers, should be insulated to prevent freezing. Use foam covers or insulating tape to wrap these components, ensuring that they are protected from the cold. If your system has any exposed pipes, be sure to wrap them with foam insulation or heat tape. This will help keep the pipes from freezing and bursting during the winter months.

Protect Underground Components

While underground irrigation components are somewhat insulated by the surrounding soil, extreme cold can still affect them. If you live in an area with extremely cold winters, it may be worth considering adding extra insulation around the sprinkler lines or the backflow preventer. In some cases, deep burying of pipes is sufficient, but if you’re unsure about how to protect your underground components, consult a professional to ensure proper insulation.

Schedule a Professional Inspection

While many homeowners can perform the basic steps of winterizing their irrigation system, scheduling a professional inspection is a smart way to ensure everything is done correctly. A professional can check for leaks, wear and tear, and other issues that might need attention before winter. Having a professional inspect your system before winter sets in can save you time and money in the long run, as it helps to avoid costly repairs come spring.
Check for Leaks and Clogs

A professional inspection will involve checking the system for any potential leaks or clogs that could cause problems in the future. Leaks that go unnoticed can waste water and reduce the efficiency of your irrigation system. Clogs in the sprinkler heads or lines can also interfere with water distribution. Addressing these issues before winter ensures that your system will function properly when it’s time to turn it back on in the spring.

Store Seasonal Equipment Properly

Clean and Dry Equipment

Before storing your seasonal irrigation equipment, be sure to clean and dry it thoroughly. Any dirt or debris left behind can cause mold or mildew to develop, leading to unpleasant odors or damage to the equipment. Wipe down hoses, nozzles, and sprinkler heads to remove any dirt, grass, or leaves.

Store Equipment in a Dry, Safe Location

Once your equipment is clean and dry, store it in a safe, dry location. Avoid leaving hoses or sprinklers outside, as exposure to the elements can lead to cracking or degradation. A garage, shed, or storage area that is shielded from the cold and moisture will help extend the life of your equipment.

Conclusion

Winterizing your irrigation system is an essential task for homeowners looking to protect their investment and ensure that their system operates smoothly in the spring. By turning off the water supply, draining the system, insulating vulnerable components, and scheduling a professional inspection, you can avoid costly repairs and ensure that your irrigation system survives the winter months. Taking the time to properly prepare your system for winter will help you maintain a healthy, functional irrigation system year after year. ProGreen Landscape Solutions is here to help you with irrigation repairs, sprinkler repairs, irrigation winter prep and more.