Protect Your Sprinkler System This Winter: A Complete Guide

 

Winterization for sprinkler system is crucial for homeowners in regions where freezing temperatures are common. If you neglect this key task, you risk severe damage to your irrigation system, leading to expensive repairs and inefficiencies next season.

Here’s a quick checklist for effective winterization:
1. Shut off the water supply to the system.
2. Drain all water from pipes and sprinkler heads.
3. Insulate exposed components to protect them from freezing temperatures.
4. Turn off timers and controllers or set them to “rain mode.”

By taking these steps, you protect your system from frozen pipes, costly burst fittings, and other winter-related damages.

Winterizing your sprinkler system isn’t just about avoiding repairs—it keeps your irrigation setup efficient and ready to go for the next growing season.

Why Winterization is Essential

Winterization for sprinkler systems is not just a seasonal chore; it’s a crucial step to protect your investment and ensure your lawn stays green and healthy year after year. Here’s why it’s essential:

Prevent Frozen Pipes

When temperatures drop below freezing, any water left in your sprinkler system can freeze. As water turns to ice, it expands, which can cause your pipes to burst. This isn’t just a minor inconvenience—it can lead to significant damage that requires extensive repairs.

“The first snowfall of the season is always the most dangerous because people just aren’t used to it yet,” said Matt Ludwig, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service in Great Falls. This sudden cold snap can catch homeowners off guard, making it vital to winterize before the first freeze hits.

Avoid Costly Repairs

Repairing a sprinkler system that has been damaged by freezing temperatures can be expensive. Burst pipes, cracked fittings, and broken valves can add up quickly. By properly winterizing your system, you can avoid these costly repairs.

Consider this: A professional winterization service might cost around $200, but repairing a damaged system can easily run into the thousands. Plus, if you have a DIY spirit, investing in an air compressor can make the process even more cost-effective in the long run.

Maintain System Longevity

Regular winterization helps extend the life of your sprinkler system. By ensuring that all components are protected from the harsh winter conditions, you can keep your system running efficiently for many years.

Pro Tip: “You don’t need to get every last drop out. You just need any water inside to have plenty of room to expand,” says a seasoned DIYer. This simple step can make a significant difference in maintaining the longevity of your system.

Real-Life Example

In Helena, Montana, the rush to winterize systems before the first major snowstorm highlights the importance of timely preparation. Local businesses like Spieker Sprinklers had to turn away callers because their winterization programs were fully booked. This shows how critical it is to winterize your system before the first freeze hits to avoid being left out in the cold.

By understanding the importance of winterization, you can take the necessary steps to protect your sprinkler system, save money on repairs, and ensure your lawn stays lush and green year after year.

Next, let’s dive into the Methods for Winterizing Your Sprinkler System to explore how to get this done effectively.

Methods for Winterizing Your Sprinkler System

Winterizing your sprinkler system is crucial to prevent damage from freezing temperatures. Here are three methods to ensure your system is ready for winter: manual drain, automatic drain, and the blow-out method.

Manual Drain Method

The manual drain method is straightforward and effective for systems equipped with manual drainage valves. Here’s how to do it:

1. Shut off the Water Supply
2. Locate the main shut-off valve for your sprinkler system. This is often found near your water meter or inside your home.
3. Turn the valve to the “off” position to stop water flow into the system.
4. Open Manual Valves
5. Locate the manual drain valves at the ends and low points of the piping.
6. Open all these valves to allow water to drain out. Wear eye protection, as water may be under pressure.
7. Drain Backflow Device
8. Ensure you also drain the backflow preventer. This device stops contaminated water from flowing back into your home’s water supply.
9. Open the drain valves on the backflow device to release any trapped water.
10. Check Sprinkler Heads with Check Valves
11. If your system has check valves, raise the sprinkler heads to let any remaining water drain out.
12. Once drained, close all the manual valves.

Automatic Drain Method

Some systems come with automatic drain valves that activate when water pressure drops. Follow these steps to use this method:

1. Turn Off the Water Supply
2. Shut off the main water valve to your sprinkler system.
3. Relieve Water Pressure
4. Briefly run one of the sprinkler heads to lower the system’s water pressure. This triggers the automatic drain valves.
5. Drain Check Valves
6. Even with automatic draining, water can remain between the shut-off valve and backflow device. Manually drain these areas if necessary.
7. If sprinkler heads have check valves, empty them separately as well.
8. Verify Draining
9. Ensure that all parts of the system, including any backflow devices and check valves, are completely drained.

Blow-Out Method

The blow-out method uses compressed air to force water out of the system. This method is effective but requires caution.

Materials Needed:
– Air compressor (80-100 CFM)
– Coupler fitting for your irrigation system
– Safety glasses

Procedure:

1. Safety First
2. Wear safety glasses to protect your eyes from debris and high-pressure air.
3. Shut Off the Water Supply
4. Turn off the main water valve and close backflow valves.
5. Connect Air Compressor
6. Attach the air compressor to your sprinkler system using the appropriate coupler.
7. Ensure the compressor is set to the correct pressure: 50 PSI for flexible polyethylene pipes or 80 PSI for rigid PVC pipes.
8. Activate Sprinkler Heads
9. Start with the sprinkler head farthest from the compressor. Open it and slowly introduce air into the system.
10. Move systematically from the farthest head to the nearest, allowing each to expel water until only air comes out.
11. Release Extra Air Pressure
12. Once the system is drained, open and close manual drain valves to release any remaining air pressure.
13. Ensure all valves are closed when finished.
14. Insulate Above-Ground Components
15. Wrap the main shut-off valve and any exposed pipes or backflow preventers in foam covers or insulation tape. Be careful not to block air vents or drain outlets.

By following these methods, you can effectively winterize your sprinkler system, protecting it from freeze damage and ensuring it remains in good working order for the next watering season.

Next, we’ll explore a Step-by-Step Guide to Winterizing Your Sprinkler System to ensure you don’t miss any crucial steps in the process.

Step-by-Step Guide to Winterizing Your Sprinkler System

Shutting Off the Water Supply

1. Locate the Main Valve
2. The main shut-off valve for your sprinkler system is typically found near your water meter or where the system connects to your home’s water supply.
3. Shut Off the Main Valve
4. Turn off the main valve to stop water from entering the sprinkler system. This is crucial to prevent any water from freezing inside the pipes.
5. Backflow Preventer
6. If your system includes a backflow preventer, shut it off as well. This device is essential for protecting your drinking water from contamination.

Turning Off Timers and Controllers

1. Switch to Rain Mode
2. If you have an automatic controller, set it to “rain mode.” This will stop the system from activating without erasing your programmed settings.
3. Preserve Settings
4. Using rain mode ensures your start times, valve run times, and other settings remain intact for spring reactivation.
5. Manual Controllers
6. If your controller doesn’t have a rain mode, you can turn it off completely, but remember you’ll need to reprogram it in the spring.

Draining the System

1. Manual Draining
2. Open manual drain valves located at the lowest points in your system to allow water to escape. Don’t forget to drain the backflow preventer and any check valves.
3. Automatic Draining
4. For systems with automatic drain valves, turn off the water supply and relieve the system pressure by briefly running a sprinkler. The auto-drain valves will then activate.
5. Blow-Out Draining
6. Connect an air compressor to the system using a proper fitting. Start with the sprinkler head farthest from the compressor and work your way closer, blowing out each head until only air comes out. Maintain a safe PSI level: 50 PSI for polyethylene pipes and 80 PSI for PVC pipes.

Insulating Above-Ground Components

1. Foam Covers
2. Wrap any exposed pipes and the main shut-off valve with foam covers. This helps protect them from freezing temperatures.
3. Insulation Tape
4. Use self-sticking foam insulation tape to wrap around pipes and components. Make sure the insulation is tight but not so tight that it restricts airflow.
5. Protecting Backflow Preventers
6. Insulate backflow preventers with foam or insulation tape, ensuring you don’t block any air vents or drain outlets. This prevents freezing and damage during winter months.

By following these steps, you can effectively winterize your sprinkler system, protecting it from freeze damage and ensuring it remains in good working order for the next watering season.

Next, we’ll explore Common Mistakes to Avoid to ensure your winterization process is foolproof.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When it comes to winterization for sprinkler system, even small oversights can lead to costly repairs. Let’s look at some common mistakes and how to avoid them.

Not Draining Completely

Why it Matters:

Leaving water in your pipes can cause them to freeze, expand, and crack. This can lead to expensive repairs come spring.

How to Avoid:

• Manual Draining: Open all manual drain valves and let the water escape. Don’t forget to drain the backflow preventer and any check valves.
• Automatic Draining: Ensure the system pressure is relieved so that the auto-drain valves activate.
• Blow-Out Method: Use an air compressor to blow out each sprinkler head until only air comes out.

Pro Tip: Double-check all zones to ensure no water remains.

Using Incorrect PSI

Why it Matters:

Using too much pressure can damage your system, while too little won’t clear all the water.

How to Avoid:

• For PVC pipes, do not exceed 80 PSI.
• For polyethylene pipes, the limit is 50 PSI.

Pro Tip: Gradually increase the air pressure and monitor closely. It’s better to go slow and steady.

Neglecting Insulation

Why it Matters:

Exposed pipes, valves, and backflow preventers are vulnerable to freezing temperatures. Insufficient insulation can lead to cracks and breaks.

How to Avoid:

• Foam Covers: Wrap exposed pipes and the main shut-off valve with foam covers.
• Insulation Tape: Use self-sticking foam insulation tape for a tight but breathable wrap.
• Backflow Preventers: Insulate with foam or tape, ensuring you don’t block air vents or drain outlets.

Pro Tip: Check for any gaps or exposed areas that might need extra insulation.

By avoiding these common mistakes, you’ll ensure your sprinkler system stays in great shape through the winter. Next, we’ll answer some Frequently Asked Questions about Winterization for Sprinkler System to help you steer this process with confidence.

Frequently Asked Questions about Winterization for Sprinkler System

Can I winterize my sprinkler system myself?

Yes, you can! Winterizing your sprinkler system is doable with some basic tools and a bit of patience. Here are the DIY steps:

1. Shut Off the Water Supply:
– Locate the main valve near your water meter and turn it off.
– If your system has a backflow preventer, shut this off too.

2. Turn Off Timers and Controllers:
– Switch your system to “rain mode” to keep your settings intact without running the sprinklers.

3. Drain the System:
– Manual Draining: Open all manual drain valves and let the water escape.
– Automatic Draining: Activate the auto-drain function, if available.
– Blow-Out Method: Use an air compressor to blow out each zone until only air comes out. Be cautious with the PSI levels (80 PSI for PVC, 50 PSI for polyethylene).

4. Insulate Above-Ground Components:
– Use foam covers and insulation tape to protect exposed pipes and backflow preventers.

Safety Tips:
– Always use eye protection when working with an air compressor.
– Gradually increase air pressure to avoid damaging your system.

If you’re unsure or uncomfortable with any step, consider hiring a professional.

What happens if you don’t winterize your sprinkler system?

Failing to winterize can lead to severe damage:

Frozen Pipes:
– Water left in the pipes can freeze, causing the pipes to expand and crack.

Cracked Fittings:
– The expansion from freezing water can also crack fittings and valves, leading to leaks.

Costly Repairs:
– Replacing damaged pipes and fittings can be expensive. A small investment in winterization can save you from hefty repair bills.

How do I winterize my sprinklers without a pump?

If you don’t have a pump, you can still winterize your system using these methods:

Manual Draining:
– Open the manual drain valves at the low points and ends of the piping. Let the water run out completely.

Automatic Draining:
– If your system has auto-drain valves, relieve the system pressure to activate them. This will allow the water to drain out automatically.

Alternative Methods:
– You can rent an air compressor from a local hardware store if you decide to use the blow-out method.
– If DIY feels overwhelming, professional lawn care services can handle the winterization for you.

By following these steps and tips, you can ensure your sprinkler system is well-protected this winter.

Conclusion

Winterizing your sprinkler system is crucial for preventing damage and saving on costly repairs. By following the steps we’ve outlined—shutting off the water supply, turning off timers, draining the system, and insulating above-ground components—you can ensure your system remains in top shape through the harsh winter months.

Early preparation is key. As the first major snowstorm of the season can hit unexpectedly, like the recent one in the northern Rockies, winterize before freezing temperatures arrive. This proactive approach can spare you from the headaches and expenses associated with frozen pipes and cracked fittings.

If you’re still unsure about tackling this task yourself, or simply prefer to leave it to the experts, Best In Irrigation, LLC offers professional winterization services custom to your specific needs. With our focus on water conservation and cutting-edge technology, we’ve been a trusted name in Massachusetts for over 9 years. Our team ensures your irrigation system is ready to withstand the winter, protecting your investment and giving you peace of mind.

For more information or to schedule a service, visit our Lawn Irrigation System Blowouts page.

Prepare early, protect your system, and enjoy a worry-free winter!