How to Winterize Your Outdoor Plumbing and Sprinkler System

As temperatures begin to drop, it's time to start thinking about protecting your outdoor plumbing and sprinkler system from the winter chill. Freezing temperatures can cause pipes to burst, leading to expensive repairs and water damage. Winterizing your system now will save you a lot of trouble—and money—when the cold weather hits.

Start with your outdoor faucets. These are the most exposed parts of your plumbing system, making them the most vulnerable to freezing. Begin by turning off the water supply to the outdoor faucets from inside your home. Once the water is off, open each faucet to drain any remaining water. This is a crucial step to prevent any trapped water from freezing and expanding inside the pipes. Next, cover each faucet with an insulating foam cover. These inexpensive covers provide an extra layer of protection against the cold.

Next up is your sprinkler system. If your system is automatic, locate the shut-off valve and turn off the water supply. You’ll want to drain the system to ensure no water is left inside the pipes. There are a few methods for this, but the most effective is the blowout method. Using an air compressor and a blowout adapter, you can force the remaining water out of the sprinkler lines. This process should be done carefully to avoid damaging the system, so if you’re unsure, it might be worth hiring a professional. For those without an air compressor, manually draining the system through the drain valves is an alternative, though it might not be as thorough.

Finally, don’t forget about insulating exposed pipes. Any pipes that run along exterior walls or through unheated areas, like a garage, should be wrapped in foam insulation. This will help keep the pipes from freezing, even if temperatures dip unexpectedly. Pipe insulation is easy to install and provides peace of mind that your plumbing is protected all winter long.

By following these steps, you’ll ensure that your outdoor plumbing and sprinkler system are properly winterized, helping you avoid the hassle and expense of frozen pipes when winter sets in.