As temperatures plummet, your lawn prepares to enter its dormant phase. Since it will stop growing, it won’t require regular mowing and watering like it did in the summer. However, this doesn’t mean you’re done with your maintenance responsibilities. Proper winterization of your sprinkler system will ensure that it is ready to begin working again in the spring.

Preparing Your Sprinklers for Winter

1. Gradually Reduce Water Usage

While your lawn doesn’t require as much water in the fall as it does during the summer, it will still need about half an inch of water per week before it enters its dormant phase. Adjust your sprinkler system’s output accordingly to avoid overwatering your lawn. As temperatures continue to drop and the grass becomes dormant, you can eventually stop watering entirely.

2. Check for Misdirected Sprinkler Heads

The end of fall is a good time to run a comprehensive maintenance check of your system. Inspect the sprinkler heads for worn or damaged parts. Sprinkler heads can become misdirected due to an obstruction in the system or because of worn parts that keep them from rotating properly. Addressing these issues during a time with less water consumption will help prep the system for spring.

3. Flush Out All Water

Removing water from the irrigation lines is essential for winterization. This will prevent freezing within the system, which can cause extensive damage to your sprinklers. Controlled air pressure delivery to each zone of the sprinkler system is generally the most effective method for clearing your irrigation lines. This task should be performed by a professional before the first night of freezing temperatures.

If you need help winterizing your sprinkler system, contact The Sprinkler Connection. Serving Monroe County, NY, for over 30 years, their certified team can help with everything from sprinkler installation to lawn irrigation repairs. To learn more about how they can help your lawn grow, visit them online or call their Pittsford location at (585) 398-3960.