If you’re getting your home ready for the winter months, never neglect your sprinkler system. While it might not seem like a big deal to let it run below freezing temperatures, you can actually end up causing a lot of damage if it isn’t turned off in time. To ensure that your system is ready for winter, here’s an overview of when you should shut it off and why it needs to be.
What Temperature Is Too Low for Sprinkler Systems?
Freezing temperatures are the primary concern for sprinkler systems, as water inside the pipes and sprinkler heads can freeze when temperatures in your region begin to dip below 32°F. This freezing causes water to expand, which may result in cracked pipes and damage to components like valves and fittings. To avoid costly repairs, keep your irrigation system protected by shutting it off before the system just before temperatures consistently reach freezing levels.
How Early Should I Shut off My Sprinkler System?
Deciding when to turn off sprinklers depends on local weather conditions and whether your lawn is still benefiting from hydration from adequate rainfall. In most areas, homeowners shut their systems once temperatures in your region start falling steadily during the late fall season.
However, if the fall season arrives with unexpected freezes, you may need to shut off irrigation earlier. Delaying too long could expose the drip line and other parts of your irrigation system to cold damage.
What Happens If You Don’t Shut Off Your Sprinkler System?
If you don’t shut off your irrigation system before the winter season begins, excess water trapped in the pipes and valves can freeze and expand, causing severe damage. Components such as sprinkler heads and the backflow preventer are especially vulnerable to freezing temperatures.
Without draining the system using an air compressor, ice may form, leaving the system unable to perform in tip condition once spring arrives. Additionally, burst pipes or leaks can create icy hazards that make your outdoor spaces a tad less safe.
What Happens If You Shut Off Your Sprinkler System Too Early?
Failing to turn off your sprinkler in time is not ideal, but neither is turning it off too early. Shutting off your irrigation system at the wrong time can leave your lawn and plants without water when they still need hydration during the late fall season. During this time, lawns that rely on the system for irrigation may not get enough moisture if adequate rainfall is sparse, leaving them stressed.
To prevent this from happening, be sure to monitor weather conditions during fall and shut your system down only after you’ve ensured it has delivered enough water for the season. This approach helps keep your lawn healthy and maintained without sacrificing the safety of your irrigation system in the process.
For Professional Winterization, Call Brookhaven Irrigation
Winterization involves a bit more than just shutting off water at the right time. If you want your sprinkler system winterized properly, reach out to the professional, knowledgeable, and courteous team at Brookhaven Irrigation.
We offer sprinkler winterization, irrigation maintenance in Long Island, and more so that you won’t have to make your fall any busier than it already is. Reach out today to learn more about how our professionals can help you protect your sprinkler and irrigation system.
