Publish Time: 2025-06-27 Origin: Site
Winterizing your sprinkler system is something you definitely don’t want to skip. If you leave water in the pipes, it can freeze and cause cracks or broken fittings. Fixing these issues will end up costing you a lot more than simply winterizing the system.
The good news is, winterizing your irrigation system is easy to do with just a few simple tools and steps. One of the best methods is using an air compressor to blow out the water from the pipes, which prevents freezing. Many people choose to winterize their sprinkler systems because it saves them money in the long run. The chart below shows how costs rise as the size of your yard increases.
Learning to winterize helps protect your system and saves you money.
Winterizing your sprinkler system stops frozen water from breaking pipes and parts. Draining water and using an air compressor keeps your system safe all winter. Start winterizing before the first hard frost, which is usually in early fall. This helps you avoid damage. Use the right air pressure and tools to clear water safely. This will not hurt pipes or sprinkler heads. Insulate all above-ground parts like pipes, valves, and faucets. This stops freezing and leaks. Follow each step closely and check for leaks or damage. This can help you save money on repairs. You can winterize your system if you have time and tools. Hire a pro if your system is big or tricky. Use the checklist to make sure you do not miss any steps.
If you do not winterize your sprinkler system, it can get damaged. Water left in the pipes can freeze when it gets cold. When water freezes, it gets bigger and pushes on the pipes. This can make pipes crack or even burst. You might not see the damage right away. In spring, you may notice leaks or weak water pressure. Sprinkler heads can also break if water freezes inside them. The manifold controls water for each zone. It can crack and cost a lot to fix.
Tip: Fixing pipes underground costs more than winterizing your system.
Here are some problems that can happen if you skip winterizing:
Pipes underground can crack or burst
Sprinkler heads can break
Manifolds that control water can get damaged
Leaks can waste water and raise your bills
The system might not work when you need it
You might have to spend a lot of money to fix these problems. Your yard can also get damaged if your irrigation system does not work in spring.
When you winterize your sprinkler system, you keep it safe from cold weather. Draining and blowing out water before it freezes keeps pipes, valves, and sprinkler heads safe. You can avoid expensive repairs and your system will be ready for spring.
Some main benefits are:
Stops water from freezing and breaking pipes
Helps your sprinkler system last longer
Stops leaks and failures in spring
Saves money on repairs and water bills
Keeps your yard looking nice
You also save water by stopping leaks from winter damage. Many sprinkler systems cost over $3,000 to put in. Winterizing helps protect what you paid for. Some people hire a pro, but many can do it themselves with the right steps.
Note: Good winterizing means turning off the water, draining pipes, blowing out each zonewith an air compressor, and covering parts that stick out. These steps help keep your irrigation system safe all winter.
You need to keep your sprinkler system safe from cold weather. Winterization helps you do this. You take water out of pipes, valves, and sprinkler heads. If water stays inside, it can freeze and get bigger. This can break pipes or sprinkler heads. You can stop costly repairs by doing the right steps.
Here is what you usually do for winterization:
Turn off the water supply to your system.
Drain the pipes with manual or automatic drains, or use an air compressor to blow out water.
Cover parts above ground, like backflow preventers and pipes you can see.
Turn off your controller or set it to sleep mode.
Look for leaks or damage before you finish.
Drain and clean pumps and filters if your system has them.
Tip: Winterization keeps your system safe from frost and helps it last longer. You also stop leaks that waste water and hurt your yard.
Winterization keeps your irrigation system working well. It stops leaks underground and sinkholes. You also keep your lawn and even your home’s foundation safe. When you winterize, you save money and keep your yard healthy.
You should start winterizing before the first hard frost. If you wait too long, freezing water can hurt your system. Most experts say to winterize in early fall. Watch the weather where you live. When nights get close to freezing (32°F), it is time to act.
Here is a table to help you:
Time Period | Recommended Actions |
February - September | Set up a winterization service appointment |
Late September | Start watering less often |
Early October | Finish winterizing before the first frost |
October 9 | Average first frost date in Ankeny, Iowa |
Try to finish winterizing 1-2 weeks before the first frost.
Watch local weather forecasts in late fall.
Make sure you finish winterizing while it is still above freezing.
Note: If you wait too long, an early freeze can cause damage. It is better to winterize a bit early than too late.
You need an air compressor to push water out of your sprinkler pipes. This tool uses air to clear out any water left inside. Most experts say you should use a compressor with 50 to 100 cubic feet per minute (CFM). For most home systems, keep the air pressure between 30 and 50 pounds per square inch (PSI). If you use too much pressure, you can break pipes or sprinkler heads.
Tip: Always use a pressure regulator. Most home pipes cannot take more than 40–60 PSI. Too much pressure can crack pipes or break parts.
Here is a simple chart for picking a compressor:
Pipe Material | Max Safe Pressure (PSI) | Recommended CFM |
Polyethylene | 30–50 | 50–100 |
PVC | 40–80 | 50–100 |
Blow out each zone for about 2–3 minutes. Watch the sprinkler heads as you work. When you see only air coming out, you can stop. Only blow out one zone at a time. This helps stop heat and friction from hurting the pipes.
You need more than just an air compressor to winterize your sprinkler system. Experts say you should also have these tools:
Safety glasses: Keep your eyes safe from flying dirt or water.
Compressor adapter: Lets you connect the air hose to the blowout port.
Channel-lock pliers: Help you loosen or tighten pipe fittings.
Pressure regulator: Makes sure the air pressure stays safe for your pipes.
Insulation tape: Wraps around pipes and fittings to stop them from freezing.
Faucet or spigot covers: Protect outdoor faucets from cold weather.
Safety Note: Always wear eye protection when using an air compressor. Fast bursts of air or water can hurt your eyes.
After you finish, turn off your irrigation controller. This stops the system from turning on by mistake during winter.
Some extra items can make winterizing easier or give more protection:
Foam pipe insulation: Slides over pipes to help stop freezing.
Insulated tape: Seals gaps and keeps insulation in place.
Plastic bags and zip ties: Cover and hold sprinkler heads or valves.
Permanent marker: Labels zones or parts for easy setup in spring.
Work gloves: Keep your hands safe when using tools and insulation.
If you are not sure about any step, you can hire a pro. Most winterization services cost between $60 and $120. This can help you feel safe and avoid expensive mistakes.
Pro Tip: Insulate all above-ground parts, like backflow preventers and valves. This helps stop freeze damage and keeps your system ready for spring.
Start the winterization process by shutting off the water supply to your sprinkler system. Find the main shut-off valve. You might see it in your basement, utility room, or outside near the water meter. Turn the valve handle until it is perpendicular to the pipe. This action stops water from entering the system. If your system uses a backflow preventer, turn its valve 90 degrees as well. Some valves have labels to help you identify them.
After you shut off the water, open the hose bib or drain valve. Let any trapped water flow out into a bucket. This step reduces pressure in the pipes and helps prevent freezing. Many experts recommend draining the system before the first hard frost. If you cannot find the shut-off valve, check near the water meter or ask a professional for help.
Tip: Always wait until your grass stops growing and temperatures drop before you winterize. This timing helps your yard get enough water before winter.
Next, turn off the sprinkler system timer or controller. Most systems have a control panel inside your garage or basement. Switch the timer to the "off" position or set it to "rain mode." Rain mode keeps your programming safe but stops the system from turning on during winter. This step prevents accidental watering and protects your pipes from freezing.
Manufacturers and landscaping experts agree that turning off the timer is a key part of how to winterize a sprinkler system. You do not want the system to run when there is no water in the pipes. If you skip this step, the controller might try to start the system, which can damage the valves and other parts.
Note: Always unplug the controller if you plan to do repairs or maintenance.
Draining the irrigation system is a vital step in how to winterize. After you shut off the water and turn off the timer, remove as much water as possible from the pipes. Some systems have manual or automatic drain valves. Open these valves to let water escape. If your system does not have drain valves, you will need to use an air compressor to blow out the lines. This step is called how to blow out your sprinkler system.
Check each zone and make sure water is no longer inside. Walk around your yard and look for low spots where water might collect. Open test cocks or small valves on the backflow preventer to release trapped water. Leave isolation valves at a 45-degree angle to allow any leftover water to drain out. These steps help prepare your system for freezing weather and prevent costly repairs.
Pro Tip: Clearing debris from drains and grates also helps protect your system. Inspect outlet pipes and make sure nothing blocks the flow.
By following these steps, you learn how to winterize a sprinkler system and protect your investment. Proper winterization keeps your system working well for years.
You must close the backflow valves to keep your sprinkler system safe from freezing. First, turn off the main shut-off valve for the irrigation system. Then, turn the backflow preventer’s ball valves halfway, so they are at a 45-degree angle. This helps stop trapped water from breaking the device if it freezes. Take out any drain plugs or spigots on the outside pipes. Open the drain valve on the backflow preventer and let the water flow into a bucket. After you drain the water, wrap the backflow preventer and any pipes you can see with towels, blankets, or insulation. This keeps the device safe from cold weather.
Follow these steps for the best results:
Turn off the main shut-off valve.
Turn the backflow preventer’s ball valves halfway (45-degree angle).
Take out drain plugs or spigots.
Open the drain valve and catch the water.
Wrap the backflow preventer and pipes with insulation.
Doing these things helps stop the backflow preventer from freezing and breaking in winter.
You need to hook up the air compressor after the backflow device. Never push air through the backflow preventer. Connect the compressor hose to the blowout port or a quick-connect fitting on your irrigation system. Make sure the valve is closed before you attach the hose. When the hose is on, slowly open the valve to let air in. This keeps the backflow device safe and helps you winterize the right way.
Set the air compressor to the right pressure for your pipes. For polyethylene pipes, keep the pressure under 50 psi. For PVC pipes, do not go over 80 psi. Use a compressor with enough airflow. You can find this by dividing the biggest zone’s gallons per minute (GPM) by 7.5. This gives you enough air to push out all the water without hurting the pipes.
Pipe Type | Max Pressure (psi) |
Polyethylene | 50 |
PVC | 80 |
Start with the zone that is farthest from the compressor. Turn on one zone at a time. Run air through the zone until only air comes out of the sprinkler heads. This usually takes about two minutes for each zone. Use short bursts of air instead of one long blast. This stops the pipes from getting too hot. Never run the compressor with all the valves closed. Always keep one valve open while blowing out the system.
Wear eye protection that meets ANSI rules when using the air compressor. Do not stand over parts that have air pressure in them. Take out any flow sensors before you start blowing out the system. Never leave the compressor running without watching it. When you finish, unhook the compressor and let out any extra air in the system. Move the backflow isolation valves to get rid of any trapped water. These steps help keep you and your system safe.
Tip: Always follow the instructions from the maker of your irrigation system and air compressor.
When you finish blowing out the system, open all the drain valves. This lets out any water and air left in the pipes and valves. Open both indoor and outdoor faucets that are part of the irrigation system. Take off and drain any outdoor hoses. These steps stop water from freezing inside the valves, which can make them crack or burst. Wrap pipes and faucets you can see to give extra protection from the cold. Opening drain valves is an important part of how to winterize a sprinkler system and helps you avoid expensive repairs in spring.
When you finish draining and blowing out your sprinkler system, you should take off and store some parts. This keeps your equipment safe from freezing and ready for spring. Experts say to bring removable items inside. Here is what you should do so you do not forget anything:
Take out flow sensors first. Cover the pipe opening so dirt and water stay out.
Unplug any pumps you can remove. Bring them inside for winter. If you cannot take off the pump, cover it with a plastic bag or insulation blanket.
Take off faucet parts like timers, filters, and pressure regulators. Put these in a dry place, like your garage or shed.
Seal open faucets end with a hose fitting or another tight cover. This keeps out dirt and small animals.
Drain and store garden hoses, watering wands, hose-end nozzles, and hose splitters. Keep them where they will not freeze.
Check all fittings before storing them. Replace any that are broken or worn out.
Put silicone-based lubricant on seals, O-rings, gaskets, and washers. This keeps them soft for next year.
Use hose-end plugs to cover open hoses and irrigation system ends. This lets leftover water drain out.
Cover outdoor faucets with insulated covers to keep them from freezing.
Tip: Keeping your parts inside helps stop freeze damage and makes your sprinkler system last longer.
These steps help you avoid big repair bills and make spring setup easier.
Wrapping exposed parts of your sprinkler system is an important step. Good insulation keeps pipes, valves, and backflow preventers from freezing. Experts and building codes say insulation stops condensation and damage, especially in cold places. If you skip this, you could get cracks, leaks, or even wood rot near your system.
You should wrap these parts:
Pipes above ground: Use foam pipe insulation or insulation tape to cover any pipes you see.
Backflow preventers: Wrap these with insulation blankets or towels. Use plastic bags if you need extra cover.
Outdoor faucets: Put insulated covers over all outside spigots.
Valve boxes: Add more insulation inside if the box is above ground.
Any open fittings: Wrap with insulation tape or foam sleeves.
Note: Insulation works best when you seal all gaps and keep air out. This keeps things warm and stops condensation from forming.
Studies show that systems with good insulation break less and last longer. Wrapping your sprinkler system now saves you time and money in spring.
Picking the wrong air compressor can cause big trouble. If the compressor has too much pressure, it can crack pipes. It can also break sprinkler heads. If the compressor is too weak, it will not clear out all the water. You need to match the compressor’s pressure and airflow to your system. Most home systems work best with 30–50 PSI and 50–100 CFM. Always check what kind of pipe you have before you start.
Tip: Never use a small pancake compressor for a large yard. It cannot move enough air to clear the lines.
Experts say using the wrong compressor is a common mistake. Many people have stuck valves or wiring problems after using the wrong tool. Some even get winter damage that costs a lot to fix. These mistakes can make your system work badly in spring. You can avoid these problems by using the right tools and following expert advice.
If you skip steps when winterizing, your irrigation system can get damaged. Some people forget to turn off the timer or drain all the pipes. Others do not blow out every zone or miss leaks and cracks. When you skip steps, water stays in the pipes and freezes. This can make pipes burst or sprinkler heads crack.
Not changing the timer for fall
Ignoring leaks or broken pipes
Not draining every zone
Missing signs of damage
The 2021 Texas power grid failure shows what happens if you skip winterizing steps. Experts found that not winterizing energy systems caused big failures and damage. You can keep your irrigation system safe by following every step and checking your work.
Note: Always use a checklist so you do not forget any steps.
Many people forget to insulate parts after they winterize. Pipes, valves, and backflow preventers above ground need extra protection. If you skip insulation, freezing water can crack these parts. This causes leaks, high repair bills, and a bad lawn.
Experts say you should use insulation made for plumbing. Wrap pipes and valves right after you blow out the lines. Insulation keeps cold air out and stops condensation. If you do not insulate, you might have system failure and extra costs in spring. Test your system after winter to find problems early.
Pro Tip: Insulate all exposed parts as soon as you finish blowing out the system.
Here is a quick table to help you remember what to insulate:
Component | Insulation Needed? | Material Suggestion |
Above-ground pipes | Yes | Foam pipe insulation |
Backflow preventer | Yes | Insulation blanket |
Outdoor valves | Yes | Insulation tape |
If you avoid these common mistakes, you can protect your irrigation system and save money on repairs.
You might want to winterize your sprinkler system by yourself. Doing it yourself can help you save money. You may also feel proud after finishing the job. You get to see how your system works and control each step. Many people pick DIY because it only needs simple tools and some work. You will have to move sprinkler heads, check water pressure, and use an air compressor to blow out water. This job takes time and some effort.
But there are risks with DIY winterization. If you use the wrong air pressure or skip a step, you could break pipes or sprinkler heads. Mistakes can mean expensive repairs in spring. You need to know what you are doing and follow safety rules. If your system is small and you feel sure, DIY can be a good choice. If your system is big or tricky, mistakes are more likely.
Tip: DIY works best for people who have time, want to save money, and know how to use tools.
Sometimes, it is better to hire a professional. Professionals have special training and lots of experience. They know how to work with tricky systems, set the right air pressure, and find problems early. If you live where winters are very cold, a pro can help stop freeze damage. Water gets bigger when it freezes, so it can break pipes and backflow assemblies if not drained right.
You should hire a pro if:
Your system has many zones or uses automatic controls.
You do not have the right tools or enough time.
You are not sure about the steps or safety.
You want to feel safe and know the job is done right.
Professionals often have licenses and certificates. They use the right tools and follow safety rules. They also have insurance, so you are covered if something goes wrong. If your irrigation system is tricky, hiring a pro can help you avoid costly mistakes.
Note: Professionals know the best time to winterize and may offer extra services to save you money.
Too much air pressure during blowout (over 50 PSI) can brake pipes, so pros help you avoid this problem.
Renting an air compressor for DIY costs $30 to $60 each day, which adds up.
Automatic or manual drain valves help, but you still need a pro blowout for best results.
DIY winterization costs less at first. You may only need to rent or buy an air compressor, which can cost about $100 to buy or $30–$60 per day to rent. You might also buy small tools or insulation. If you already have the tools, your cost stays low.
Professional winterization costs more at the start, but it can save you money later. Experts do every step, use the right air pressure, and help stop expensive repairs. The peace of mind and protection for your system can be worth the price, especially for big or tricky systems.
Here is a table showing common costs for winterization services and supplies:
Service/Item | Price Range / Starting Price | Description / Notes |
Professional Winterization | $60 to $120+ | Includes draining, blowing out lines, and insulating components. |
DIY Air Compressor | From $100 | One-time purchase; used for compressed air winterization method. |
Air Compressor Rental | $30 to $60 per day | Needed for DIY blowout if you do not own one. |
Insulation Supplies | $10 to $40 | Foam pipe insulation, covers, and tape. |
Tip: Paying a professional can help you avoid expensive repairs from freeze damage, especially if your system is big or complicated.
You can use this checklist to make sure you do not miss any steps when winterizing your irrigation system. Follow each step in order. This list helps you protect your sprinkler system from freeze damage and costly repairs.
Turn Off the Water Supply
Find the main shut-off valve for your irrigation system. Turn it off to stop water from entering the pipes.
Shut Down the Timer or Controller
Switch your sprinkler timer to the "off" or "rain mode" setting. This prevents the system from turning on during winter.
Drain the Pipes
Open all manual or automatic drain valves. Let water flow out of the pipes. If your system does not have drain valves, you will need to use an air compressor.
Blow Out the Lines with an Air Compressor
Attach the compressor to the blowout port. Set the correct pressure for your pipe type. Blow out each zone one at a time until only air comes out of the sprinkler heads.
Open All Drain Valves
After blowing out the lines, open every drain valve again. This step removes any leftover water and air.
Remove and Store Removable Parts
Take off flow sensors, timers, filters, and hose attachments. Store them in a dry place indoors.
Insulate Exposed Components
Wrap above-ground pipes, backflow preventers, and outdoor faucets with insulation. Use foam sleeves, insulation tape, or covers.
Check for Leaks or Damage
Walk around your yard. Look for signs of leaks, cracks, or broken parts. Fix any problems before winter.
Tip: Print this checklist and keep it in your garage or shed. You can use it every year when winterizing your irrigation system.
Here is a quick reference table for your winterize irrigation system tasks:
Step | What to Do | Tools Needed |
Turn off water | Shut main valve | Wrench, gloves |
Shut down timer | Set to "off" or "rain mode" | None |
Drain pipes | Open drain valves | Bucket, pliers |
Blow out lines | Use air compressor | Air compressor, adapter |
Open drain valves | Release leftover water | None |
Remove/store parts | Take off and store indoors | Screwdriver, bags |
Insulate components | Wrap exposed parts | Foam, tape, covers |
Check for leaks | Inspect system | Flashlight |
If you follow these steps, you will know how to winterize your sprinkler system the right way. Winterizing your irrigation system keeps your yard healthy and your system safe. You can avoid expensive repairs and enjoy a smooth start in spring.
Note: Start winterizing your irrigation system before the first hard freeze. Early action gives you the best protection.
You keep your sprinkler system safe by doing every winterization step. Experts say these things are most important: Take out all the water before it gets cold. This stops pipes and heads from breaking. Use manual, automatic, or blow-out ways to drain the lines. Make sure no water is left inside. Bring timers, filters, and regulators inside to keep them safe. Doing all the winterization steps saves you money and stops repairs in spring. Use the checklist to help you finish each step. Most people can do this job if they follow good instructions. If your system is big or tricky, you might want to hire a pro.
You should winterize if you live where temperatures drop below freezing. If you see frost on the ground or your area gets cold nights, your system needs protection.
Yes, you can use manual or automatic drain valves if your system has them. If not, you need an air compressor to blow out the water. Always check your system type first.
Water left inside can freeze and expand. This can crack pipes, break sprinkler heads, and cause leaks. Repairs often cost much more than winterizing.
You should winterize before the first hard freeze. Most people do this in early fall. Watch local weather reports for freezing temperatures.
DIY costs $10–$60 for supplies or compressor rental. Professional services usually charge $60–$120. Larger or complex systems may cost more.
Yes, you should wrap all exposed pipes, valves, and backflow preventers. Insulation helps prevent freezing and damage during winter.
Wait until all danger of frost has passed. Check for leaks or damage before turning the water back on. Test each zone to make sure everything works.
You need an air compressor, safety glasses, a compressor adapter, pliers, and insulation materials. Optional items include gloves and faucet covers.
Tip: Keep your tools and checklist together for easy use next year.