Winterizing Your Sprinkler System: Simple Steps

Drain the System Before Freezing Temperatures

The goal is to remove most water from pipes before extreme cold arrives. Follow these steps:

1. Turn off the water supply valve to the irrigation system.
2. Run the timer through all its normal cycles. Water will drain from the lowest sprinkler heads.
3. Remaining water won't be under pressure, so the system should be fine next spring.

Professional Alternative

Consider a maintenance contract with an irrigation contractor. They'll inspect heads, drain the system in winter, recheck in spring, and may blow compressed air through pipes to remove all residual water.