Preparing Your Sprinkler System for Winter and Landscaping Tips

Preparing Your Sprinkler System for Winter and Landscaping Tips

Landscaping is simple during the warmer months; however, when winter approaches, it is important to prepare your outdoor space. Neglecting to do so can cause your sprinkler system installation that you spent time and money to set up to freeze and create costly damage. Fortunately, there are several simple steps you can take to ensure your sprinkler system is ready for winter and that your landscaping remains attractive throughout the colder months.

Steps for Preparing Your Sprinkler System

When winter rolls around, it’s important to make sure your sprinkler system is prepared for the cold weather. Here’s how to winterize your sprinkler system.

Turn off the Timer and Water

Start by shutting off the water at the source so that no water can enter the system. Then, turn off the timer. This will ensure that the sprinkler system doesn’t accidentally turn on during the colder months.

Drain All Water

Next, you’ll need to drain the water from the system. To do this, start by opening the drain valves, or backflow preventers, which are located at the lowest point in the system. Allow the water to drain completely before closing the valves.

Manual vs. Automatic Draining

Manual draining involves removing the sprinkler heads from the ground and then turning them upside down to allow the water to drain out. Be sure to wipe off any excess water that may remain.

Automatic draining is a more efficient method, as it uses an automatic drainage system. This system consists of a series of pumps, valves, and hoses that will automatically drain the water from the system.

The Most Effective Way to Drain Your Sprinkler System

Blow-out draining is the most effective way to winterize your system. This requires a specialized compressor that is used to blow air through the system. This will create pressure, which will force the water out of the system.

Make Sure Everything Above Ground is Insulated or Protected

Once you have drained the water from the system, it’s important to insulate any above-ground components. This will help to protect them from the cold weather and prevent them from freezing.

Is it Good to Run Sprinklers Before a Freeze Arrives?

No, it’s not recommended that you run your sprinklers before a freeze. This can cause the water to freeze in the pipes, which can create costly damages. Ideally, there shouldn’t be any water in the pipes when the temperature drops below freezing.

Should You Winterize a Sprinkler System Yourself?

Yes, it is possible to winterize your own sprinkler system. However, if you’re not comfortable doing so, it’s recommended that you hire a professional. Professional landscaping companies have experience not just with winterizing systems, but also with maintaining them throughout the year.

Consequences of Not Winterizing

If you don’t winterize your sprinkler system, it can cause the pipes to freeze and burst, leading to costly damages. It can also cause the sprinkler heads to crack or become dislodged. To avoid these issues, it’s important to winterize your sprinkler system before the winter months.

Other Pre-Winter Landscaping Tasks

Preparing your sprinkler system is by far one of the most important tasks to do as winter arrives. Still, there are other things you can do for your lawn, plants, and trees that can help protect them through the winter and ensure that when spring arrives they will be in top shape.

Cover Trees with Burlap

Trees can be damaged during the winter from heavy snow and winds. To protect them, cover the tree with a layer of burlap. This will help to insulate the tree and keep it safe from the cold.

Mulch Plants

It’s important to cover your plants with a layer of mulch before the winter. This will help to protect the roots and keep them insulated.

Aerate the Lawn

Aerate the lawn before the winter to help promote stronger and healthier growth in the spring. This will help to keep the soil loose and allow water and air to get to the roots.

Trim Bushes and Trees

Trim any overgrown bushes and trees to help protect them from winter weather. This will also help to promote new growth and keep them looking their best.

By following these steps and tips, you can ensure that your sprinkler system is prepared for the winter and that your landscaping will remain beautiful and healthy through the cold months.

Get Help Preparing for Winter With Sprinkler Installation and Maintenance From Picture Perfect Lawn & Landscape

At Picture Perfect Lawn & Landscape, we offer sprinkler installation, maintenance, and winterization services to help you get your outdoor spaces ready for the winter. Our team of experienced technicians can make sure that your system is properly prepared for the cold weather and that your landscaping will remain healthy and beautiful year-round.

Contact us today to learn more about our services and schedule a consultation to learn more about what we can do to help you prepare your property for the colder months.