There are a few common elements of our properties where winterization will be very important, and one of the single most notable here with regard to your landscape is your sprinkler system. Properly winterizing your sprinkler system each winter is vital for protecting the entire setup and ensuring it’s in top working order come spring, and there are some simple steps to follow here.

At Aeroscape, we’re here to assist clients around Salt Lake City, South Jordan, Draper, Sandy and nearby areas with all their landscape needs, including various areas of landscape maintenance and even various winter-specific services like snow removal and more. Whether on your own or with the help of our staff wherever necessary, here are the basic steps on how to winterize your sprinkler setup.

Why Sprinkler System Winterization is Vital

Before we get into the specific steps on how to winterize, let’s quickly go over why this process is so important. Winterizing your sprinkler system is crucial for preventing costly damage that may occur from freezing temperatures and ice buildup. By properly preparing your sprinkler system for the colder months, you can avoid potential repairs or replacements in the spring.

On the flip side, if you fail to winterize your sprinkler system, you may end up with damaged pipes, valves, or other components that result in costly repairs or replacements. Additionally, any leftover water in the system can freeze and expand, causing cracks and leaks that will need to be fixed before using the system again.

Our next few sections will go over the basic steps for sprinkler system winterization – remember, once again, that if you need any assistance or simply prefer to have our pros handle these details for you, we’re always happy to help.

Shutting Off the Water Supply

The first step in winterizing your sprinkler system is shutting off the water supply. Locate and turn off the main shut-off valve for your irrigation system – this may be located in a basement, crawl space, or underground box. If you can’t find the shut-off valve, contact your sprinkler system installer or check the owner’s manual.

Some systems have valves that are in place to prevent backflow, which can cause your drinking water to become contaminated if it mixes with the sprinkler water. Make sure to shut off these valves as well.

Turning Off Timers or Auto-Starts

Many sprinkler systems come with timers or auto-start functions that need to be turned off before winterization. These features can activate the system without warning and cause a buildup of pressure in the pipes, leading to potential cracks or breakage. Turn these features off and unplug them if necessary.

If you’re having trouble finding or turning off these features, don’t hesitate to reach out for professional assistance.

Draining the System

Next, you’ll need to drain all the water from your sprinkler system. Depending on the type of system you have, this may involve some slightly different approaches:

• Manual drain system: If your system has manual valves, you’ll need to locate the lowest point of the irrigation line and open it up to drain out all water from the pipes. These points will typically have valves that you can turn to open and drain the water.
• Automatic drain system: If your system has automatic valves, they will automatically shut off when there is no more pressure in the pipes. To activate this feature, simply shut off the main valve and then open all of the sprinkler heads.
• Blowing out the lines: For larger systems or those with underground pipes, it may be necessary to use an air compressor to blow out all the water from the pipes. This method is typically recommended for regions with very cold winters.

Protecting Valves and Heads

Once all the water has been drained from your sprinkler system, you’ll want to protect any above-ground valves or heads from potential freezing temperatures. Use insulation material or old towels/blankets to cover these components and keep them protected from the cold.

If you’re unsure about any of these steps or simply don’t have the time to properly winterize your sprinkler system, don’t hesitate to contact landscape contractors like our team at Aeroscape. We offer comprehensive winterization services that will ensure your sprinkler system is fully protected throughout the winter months. And as always, we’re here to help with all your needs around SLC, South Jordan, Draper, Sandy or nearby areas. Reach out to us today!