How To Winterize Your Irrigation System Properly

As winter approaches, preparing your irrigation system for the cold months is crucial to prevent costly damage from freezing temperatures. Proper winterization ensures that your system remains functional and ready for use when spring arrives. Follow these step-by-step guidelines to winterize your irrigation system effectively.

Before starting the winterization process, conduct a thorough inspection of your irrigation system. Check for any visible leaks, damaged pipes, or malfunctioning sprinkler heads. Addressing these issues before winter can save you from more significant problems later. Turn off the main water supply to the irrigation system to prevent any water from flowing through the pipes during the winterization process. Locate the main shut-off valve, which is typically near the water meter or where the water line enters your property, and close it securely.

The next step is to drain as much water as possible from the irrigation pipes. Start by opening all the drain valves on the system. These valves are usually located at the lowest points of the irrigation lines to allow gravity to drain the water. If your system has automatic drain valves, make sure they are functioning properly. For systems without automatic drains, you may need to manually open each valve to release the water. Allow the water to drain completely until no more flows out of the pipes. This process helps remove standing water that could freeze and expand, causing pipes to crack.

For areas with extremely cold temperatures, using compressed air to blow out the remaining water in the pipes is an additional precaution. This method, known as the blowout method, is more effective in removing all traces of water from the system. However, it requires the use of a compressor and should be done carefully to avoid damaging the pipes. Before using compressed air, check the manufacturer’s recommendations for your irrigation system to ensure you use the correct pressure. Typically, the pressure should not exceed 80 pounds per square inch (PSI) to prevent pipe damage. Attach the compressor to the main air release valve of the irrigation system and start blowing air through the pipes. Work zone by zone, opening each valve one at a time to allow the air to push out the remaining water. Be sure to follow the proper sequence to ensure all areas of the system are cleared.

After draining the water and using compressed air (if applicable), it’s time to protect the above-ground components of your irrigation system. This includes sprinkler heads, backflow preventers, and any exposed pipes. Insulate backflow preventers with foam covers or blankets designed for this purpose. These devices are vulnerable to freezing and can be expensive to repair or replace if damaged. For sprinkler heads, consider installing anti-siphon valves or covering them with protective caps to prevent water from accumulating and freezing. If there are any exposed pipes above ground, wrap them with insulation tape or foam pipe covers to provide an extra layer of protection against the cold.

Once all the components are protected, it’s time to shut down the irrigation controller. Set the controller to the “off” position and consider removing the batteries to prevent any accidental activation during the winter. This step ensures that the system does not turn on unexpectedly, which could lead to water flowing into frozen pipes. Finally, secure any loose parts or components to prevent them from being damaged by wind or other winter weather conditions.

 Make sure that all valves are in the closed position and that covers are securely fastened.