Cold weather is on the way, and it’s time to winterize your sprinkler system.
Our sprinkler systems have a backflow valve that sticks up above the ground about 18-24 inches. Because this is exposed to wind, it freezes very easily and can explode under pressure. When temperatures get below freezing, it’s strongly recommended to drain that section of pipe or cover it (or both). Draining it only takes a couple of minutes and a flat-head screwdriver. This can save you a lot of heartache and a $250-$300 repair bill. For the really cold days, or several freezing days in a row , covering it may not be enough.
To drain your system, click here: https://www.stillhouseridge.com/info/sprinkler-winterization/. To cover it, you have a few options. Wrap it with some old towels, then cover the whole thing with an upside-down plastic Rubbermaid type of container. Or wrap it with insulation and duct tape a black plastic trash bag over the insulation. Or buy a sprinkler sock made for this purpose; they cost around $20-$50. Check Amazon for insulated sprinkler covers.