Can I winterize a sprinkler system myself?

DIY draining and shutting off sprinkler systems is possible. If you do wish to shut off the system yourself, then it is important to understand the system and feel comfortable with all the steps involved. Using the blow-out method is the most complicated, and potentially most dangerous, way to drain the stem and you must be gentle and wear safety gear. Plumbing technician Josh Mitchell advises: ‘While DIY can be satisfying and cost-effective, a misstep can lead to costly repairs. If you're uncertain or if your system is complex, consult a professional.’

Do sprinklers break in winter?

Sprinklers can be damaged in winter by frosts, as any water left inside can expand and split the components in the sprinkler head. A lot of times the damage is not evident until the system is switched on again in spring. As well as the heads, sprinkler lines can also be damaged by water freezing in them.

How to winterize a sprinkler system in four simple steps

(Image credit: Getty Images/lotusstock)

By Drew Swainston

published 16 October 2023

in Advice

Drew’s passion for gardening started with growing vegetables and salad in raised beds in a small urban terrace garden. He has gone on to work as a professional gardener in historic gardens across the UK and also specialise as a kitchen gardener growing vegetables, fruit, herbs, and cut flowers. That passion for growing extends to being an allotmenteer, garden blogger, and producing how-to gardening guides for websites. Drew was shortlisted in the New Talent of the Year award at the 2023 Garden Media Guild Awards.

How to winterize a sprinkler system – 4 key steps irrigation experts recommend

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