How to Winterize a Lawn Sprinkler
Your lawn sprinkler system must be winterized to prevent damage from cold weather. The valves, sprinkler heads, pipes and backflow preventer can all freeze and crack if water remains in them, rendering your lawn sprinkler system useless come spring. Winterize your sprinkler system after sprinkling season ends and before cold weather arrives to prepare it for start up in the spring. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Freeze-proof main shut off valve
- Wet/dry shop vacuum
- Valve insulation blankets
Instructions
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1
Shut off the lawn sprinkler system water supply at the shut off valve. Set the controller to "Rain" mode, or disconnect the power to the system controller if the controller is connected to a pump to prevent accidental start up of the pump and subsequent damage.
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2
Remove the backflow preventer and drain out the water. Draw out the water from the risers with the shop vacuum and cap the risers.
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3
Drain any above-ground valves, remove them and store them for the winter or place insulation blankets over them.
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4
Open the drain valves upstream of the valves, and let that section of the irrigation system drain completely. Open the drain valves downstream of the valves, and let this section of the irrigation system drain completely. Cap off each section of the irrigation pipes. Remove the valves, and drain and store them.
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5
Uncap the sprinkler heads and check for water. Use the shop vacuum to remove any accumulated water. Recap the sprinkler heads.
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Tips & Warnings
Your irrigation system must be completely dry, especially if you live in a colder climate with freezing temperatures, or the system pipes and valves can sustain major damage.
