The first step in winterizing your irrigation system is to shut off the water supply. This prevents water from freezing inside the pipes, which often leads to broken pipes and other system damage. Locate the main shutoff valve and close it before freezing temperatures arrive.
Water left in irrigation lines can freeze and cause damage. To avoid this, drain the system completely. Depending on your system, you may need to manually drain it or use an automatic drain valve. For systems that rely on compressed air, you’ll need to blow out the pipes with a high-pressure air compressor to clear any remaining water.
Exposed pipes and backflow preventers are particularly vulnerable to freezing. A best practice is to insulate them to protect from cold temperatures. In some cases, removing a backflow preventer completely and storing it in a protected area until spring start-up is a best practice.
Before you finish winterizing, inspect all sprinkler heads for damage or debris. Clear away dirt and leaves to prevent clogs. If any sprinkler heads are damaged, replace them now so the system is in perfect working condition when spring arrives.
If your irrigation system has automatic controllers or timers, be sure to adjust or shut them off for the season. For more advanced systems, you may want to set them to a “rain mode” to avoid sending signals to the valves.
Winterizing an irrigation system can be complex, especially for large multi-family properties. If you’re unsure about the process, hiring a professional irrigation contractor can ensure the job is done correctly, preventing any risk of winter damage.
While winterizing, take note of any repairs or improvements needed for the spring. Addressing small issues now will save time and money when the irrigation system needs to be restarted.
