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Winterize a sprinkler irrigation system
Trigger
Before first hard freeze
Who does it
DIY or Pro
Est. time
1-2 hrs
Est. cost
$0-100 (pro blow-out)
Difficulty
●●○○○
Step by step
Shut off the water supply to the irrigation system at the backflow valve.
Turn off the automatic controller or set it to 'rain mode' / off.
Open drain valves on the system if it has manual drains.
For systems without drains, a pro uses an air compressor to blow out remaining water (recommended, since DIY blow-outs risk pipe damage from over-pressurizing).
Insulate the backflow preventer with a foam cover.
Questions to ask your pro
- Do you use compressed air blow-out, and what PSI do you use for my pipe material—PVC versus polyethylene?
- How many passes per zone do you make to ensure all water is expelled?
- Will you check for broken heads, leaks, or valve issues before winterizing?
- Do you document which zones were serviced and confirm each is clear?
- Will you properly shut off and drain the backflow preventer, and insulate it if needed?
- When should I schedule spring startup, and do you offer a combined annual service package?
Video guide
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