How and When to Winterize Your Sprinkler System

At the beginning and end of each winter season, it is essential to treat your irrigation system and prepare it for the changing temperatures. This helps to prevent damage to your pipes and other equipment that may result from the harsh freeze/thaw cycles.

Winterizing your sprinkler system should be an essential part of your winter maintenance routine. If you’re wondering when to winterize your sprinkler system for best results, the answer is that it depends on where you are located and what the local weather conditions are like. Late fall/early winter is a safe bet in most parts of the country.

Here is what you need to know about the best time to winterize your sprinkler system and how to do it.

When Is The Best Time to Winterize Your Sprinkler System?

The best time to winterize your sprinkler is usually mid to late fall, depending on the local climate. The ideal winter weather is just before a hard freeze, when the temperature drops below 0 degrees Fahrenheit (-17.78 degrees Celsius). 

Once the temperature is below zero degrees, your sprinkler components might be broken or have cracked pipes. You should winterize at least one week before the first winter fall. To get the right timing, keep up with the local weather reports to know the expected first freeze of the year.

How to Winterize Your Sprinkler System

Winterizing your sprinkler system involves two steps; draining all water from the pipes and insulating the exposed parts. When temperatures fall below  32 °F (0 °C),  water expands in volume, turning into ice. This is what causes pipes to burst if left undrained or not properly drained.

Draining Your Sprinkler System

There are three general methods of winterizing sprinkler systems, these include:

• Manual-drain method – Only for manually designed sprinklers. Locate the manual valves at the ends and low points of the piping and open them one at a time, allowing all the water to run out. 
• Automatic-drain method – This is the easiest method. Open the sprinkler heads and relive the system of built-up pressure. The pipes automatically start draining the water immediately after you open the valves. You should seal off open valves after all the water has drained to keep the system airtight.
• Blow-out method – This is the most effective draining method, as it guarantees that all the water will be removed from the system. The process is best for underground sprinkler systems, which tend to retain much water.

Connect an air compressor to the sprinkler system using a system-fitting coupler. Pick a sprinkler point that is furthest from the compressor and open the sprinkler head. Make sure you close all the valves after all the water has run out.

Insulating Your Sprinkler System

After draining your sprinkler system, you will want to make sure the above-ground components such as the main valve, backflow preventers, and exposed pipes are protected from the harsh winter temperature.

Insulate your system with foam covers or insulation tapes, leaving open air vents and drain outlets.

Get Ready for Winter with Strategic Grounds

Winterizing your sprinkler system may seem like a complex task, but it doesn’t have to be. Strategic Grounds Management is available to help with all your winter maintenance needs from irrigation maintenance to deicing and even snow hauling. Contact us today for any inquiries on winterization and other outdoor maintenance services.