Know When to Shut Down Your Sprinkler System

Timing is important when preparing an irrigation system for winter. Ideally, your sprinkler system should be shut down before the ground begins to freeze and before sustained freezing temperatures arrive.

In Chicago and surrounding suburbs, fall weather can change quickly. Waiting until after a hard freeze may increase the risk of water remaining in exposed irrigation components.

Turn Off the Main Water Supply

The first step in winterizing most sprinkler systems is shutting off the water supply that feeds the irrigation system.

Locate the irrigation shut-off valve and turn off the water supply. Some systems have a dedicated shut-off valve near the backflow prevention device or where the irrigation line connects to the home's plumbing.



Once the supply is turned off, the system can be prepared for draining.

Drain Water From the Irrigation System

Simply turning off the water isn't always enough. Water can remain trapped inside irrigation pipes, valves, sprinkler heads, and other components.

Depending on the design of your system, water may be removed using one of several methods:

• Manual draining
• Automatic draining
• Compressed-air blowout
• A combination of drainage methods

The appropriate method depends on the type and configuration of the irrigation system.

Be Careful With Compressed Air

A compressed-air blowout can be an effective way to remove water from irrigation lines, but it should be performed carefully.



Using excessive air pressure can potentially damage sprinkler components, pipes, valves, or fittings. Different irrigation systems also have different requirements, so the equipment and pressure used should be appropriate for the system.

Protect Backflow Prevention Devices

Backflow prevention equipment is another important part of the winterization process.

Depending on the system, the backflow preventer may contain water that needs to be drained or otherwise protected from freezing temperatures.



Because backflow devices can vary significantly by system, homeowners should follow the manufacturer's instructions or have the equipment inspected by a qualified professional.

Shut Down the Irrigation Controller

Once the irrigation system has been properly drained, don't forget about the controller.

Depending on the model, you may be able to place the controller into an OFF, RAIN, or seasonal shutdown mode rather than completely disconnecting it.



This can help preserve programmed settings while preventing the system from activating unnecessarily during the winter.

Inspect Sprinkler Heads and Exposed Components

Winter preparation is also a good opportunity to inspect the visible parts of your irrigation system.



Look for:

• Cracked sprinkler heads
• Damaged or leaning heads
• Broken fittings
• Leaking valves
• Exposed pipes
• Damaged covers
• Signs of previous leaks

Addressing these issues before spring can make your system startup much easier.

Don't Forget Your Landscape

Winterizing your irrigation system is only one part of preparing your property for colder weather.

Fall is also an excellent time to take care of other seasonal landscaping tasks, including:

• Leaf and debris cleanup
• Lawn mowing before winter
• Garden bed cleanup
• Trimming and pruning
• Mulching
• Removing annual plants
• Preparing seasonal plantings
• Checking drainage areas
• Preparing outdoor features for winter

A complete fall cleanup can help your property enter winter in better condition and make spring maintenance easier.

Recommendations From 606 Land & Snow

Before temperatures drop, we recommend creating a simple winter preparation checklist for your property.

✔ Plan Ahead

Don't wait for the first major freeze. Schedule irrigation winterization early enough to avoid last-minute problems.

✔ Know Your System

Irrigation systems vary. Understand where your shut-off valves, backflow device, controller, and drainage points are located.

✔ Don't Force Components

If a valve, fitting, or sprinkler head is difficult to operate, avoid forcing it. Damaging the component can create a larger repair.

✔ Consider Professional Winterization

If you're unfamiliar with your irrigation system or compressed-air blowouts, professional assistance can help reduce the risk of accidental damage.

✔ Combine Seasonal Services

Fall is an ideal time to address multiple outdoor maintenance needs at once. Pair irrigation preparation with lawn care, trimming, garden cleanup, and other seasonal landscaping services.

Why Winter Preparation Matters

Properly preparing your sprinkler system can help reduce the possibility of freeze-related damage and make your irrigation system easier to restart in the spring.

A little preparation before winter can potentially save you from dealing with cracked components, leaks, unexpected repairs, and delayed spring landscaping.

At 606 Land & Snow, our goal is to help homeowners and property managers keep their outdoor spaces maintained throughout the changing seasons.

From lawn care and landscaping to seasonal cleanup and snow removal, we provide services designed to help keep your property looking its best throughout the year.