Sometime before overnight temperatures dip below 30°, most irrigation systems should be winterized to prevent freeze damage. WesternLawns provides winterization services for a reasonable fee. If you do not winterize your irrigation system, a normal freeze can result in damage to the backflow device, which on most systems is located above ground. Replacement of most backflow devices can easily exceed $150 for labor and materials. If your system has an insulated cover or is below ground, winterization will only need to be done prior to extended cold spells.
If you would like to winterize your irrigation system yourself, follow these steps:
- Slowly close the main shut-off valve, which provides water to the system. The valve is usually located near the water meter or water well.
- Go to the backflow device. Using a screwdriver, turn all test cocks ¼ a turn. This releases water from inside the backflow.
- After all water has been released, return test cocks back to the closed position.
- Position both ball valves in a half-closed/half-open position (45°).
- Go to the controller and test each station for 1-2 minutes. Then turn the controller to the off position.
Winterizing your irrigation system becomes a problem if there is a dry, cold winter. Shrubs, trees, and even turf can become damaged by below freezing temperatures when roots are dry. Dry winters are particularly hard on evergreens. To protect your landscape investment it is best if you make sure the landscape receives at least 1" of moisture every 7-14 days during the dormant season.
If you start your system back up during the winter, remember it must be winterized again before freezing temperatures arrive. There is a solution! WesternLawns is now upgrading irrigation systems with freeze protection so that you do not have to worry about a dry winter causing thousands of dollars in landscape damage. For around $250-300, we can install heat tape and an insulated cover on your backflow. This allows you to water during the winter months without worrying about freeze damage to your backflow. Also, only a few more dollars, a rain and freeze sensor can be added so that if we do have rain, or if temperatures are below freezing, your system will not run.
For more information or to schedule a your irrigation system’s winterization, call WesternLawns at 405.943.4242 or email petemoss@westernlawns.com.