Winterizations

Winterizing a lawn is a crucial step to protect the irrigation system from potential damage caused by freezing temperatures during the colder months. This process typically involves draining all water from the pipes, sprinklers, and valves to prevent them from bursting or cracking due to ice expansion. Proper winterization not only safeguards the irrigation system but also ensures a smooth start-up in the spring, saving both time and money on potential repairs.

Preparing a lawn before winter is of utmost importance for maintaining a lush and healthy landscape throughout the year. Winter can be harsh on lawns, with freezing temperatures, snow, and ice posing significant challenges to plant life. A well-prepared lawn can endure the winter months more effectively, leading to a vibrant and rejuvenated landscape when spring arrives. Here are a series of steps to ensure the system is adequately protected during the colder months:

System Inspection

The contractor starts by inspecting the entire irrigation system to identify any existing issues or potential vulnerabilities that need attention before winterizing.

Shutting off the water supply

They turn off the main water supply to the irrigation system to prevent any further water flow.

Draining the system

The contractor manually drains any water remaining in the pipes, valves, and sprinkler heads to avoid freezing and potential damage.

Compressed air blowout

Using specialized equipment, such as an air compressor, they blow out any residual water from the irrigation system. Working zone by zone, they ensure all components are thoroughly dried to prevent freezing.

Backflow prevention

If the irrigation system includes a backflow preventer, the contractor may remove and store it in a climate-controlled area to protect it from freezing temperatures.

Insulation

Above-ground components, such as valves, backflow preventers, and exposed pipes, may be insulated using protective covers or materials to provide an additional layer of protection against freezing.

Controller settings

The contractor adjusts the irrigation controller settings for the winter season. They may set the system to "rain" or "off" mode to prevent automatic activation during freezing conditions.

Final inspection

After completing the winterization process, the contractor performs a final inspection to ensure all steps were executed correctly and that the system is fully prepared for winter.