How to Winterize Your Sprinkler System

When winter approaches, you won't need your sprinkler system until spring. However, this does not mean that you should leave it as it is until the next season. If you do, chances are you will need expensive maintenance to have it up and running. This can be avoided by winterizing the system the right way, as we will show you in this post.

Why should you winterize your sprinkler system?

The main reason is to keep the pipes from damage and breakage by the cold. If this step is skipped, your system will be damaged by the spring. The best part is you can do it on your own. Below we will discuss what that looks like.

How to winterize your sprinkler system.

Shut the water supply

This is the first step towards winterization. You will need to shut the main valve located near the meter. If your system has backflow valves, you will have to shut them off too.

Put out the timer

Some systems run on an automatic timer. You need to adjust the setting to rain mode. This is the best option to power off the timer without scrapping off any settings. This way, you will have your system up and running in the spring without mishaps. The system can run in rain mode safely all winter without incurring unnecessary costs. If your sprinkler system does not have a rain mode setting, you should switch it off completely.

Drain the residual water

The pipes still have some remaining water after shutting the water system. There are several ways to achieve this. You can use manual means, The sprinkler's automatic system, or blow the water out.

• Manual

The manual draining involves raising the pipes, so they drain the water when a valve is opened. You will need goggles to do this to protect your eyes.

• Automatic

The automatic water drain comes with some sprinkler systems. This is done by switching the system on when the water has been shut off and then loosening the solenoid on all valves. These solenoids are tightened after the draining process.

• Blowing

This is complex as it involves forcing air into the system to force any residual water out. You need to read your manual to see if your system can handle the pressure without damage. You need an air compressor and connect it to your system after shutting the water system. Switch on the sprinkler that's furthest from the compressor. Close the backflow valves, open the compressor valve slowly and increase the pressure gradually until no water flows out.

Insulate

Cover any exposed component with insulation foam or tape. Do not cover any vents or drains.

Conclusion

This is an easy DIY winterization of the sprinkler system in your home. Do not start these steps before reading your user manual, to ensure you winterize the right way.

FAQs

How do I know if my sprinkler stem is self-draining?

You need to test the automatic drain valve by powering it up and then switching off your system to see if the water drains automatically.