Winterize Lawn Irrigation System
Blow out and shut down the irrigation system before the first freeze to prevent burst pipes.
DIY Cost
$75
If Ignored
$2k
Frequency
Once a year
Difficulty
Moderate DIY
Some experience helpful. Plan 2–4 hours and watch a tutorial first.
How to do it — step by step
Hire an irrigation company or rent an air compressor (50–100 CFM) to blow out each zone. Shut off the main irrigation water supply. Blow out each zone for 2–3 minutes — working from the furthest zone back to the closest. Wear eye protection. Set the controller to 'rain mode' or off. A single freeze can crack PVC lines, split backflow preventers, and damage zone valves — repairs cost $75–$200 per break. Blowout typically costs $50–$100 and takes 30 minutes.
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