You’ve probably heard that winterizing your lawn sprinkler system is a must-do task if you live in a freeze-prone area. But here’s the big question: Should you do it yourself or hire a professional? And once it’s winterized, what should you watch for to avoid common mistakes and make spring startup a breeze?
Let’s walk through the big decision, the risks on both sides, and what smart homeowners do before and after the freeze.
DIY vs. Hiring a Pro: Which Is Right for You?
Winterizing your irrigation system isn’t just a seasonal chore — it’s an essential part of protecting a major investment in your home and landscape. Whether you have a basic residential sprinkler setup or a multi-zone system with smart controls, the goal is the same: prevent freezing water from damaging your pipes, valves, and sprinkler heads.
So what’s the better route: doing it yourself or calling in the pros? The answer depends on your system, your confidence, your time, and how much risk you’re comfortable taking.
When DIY Makes Sense
DIY winterization can be rewarding and cost-effective — if you do it properly. Here are some situations where doing it yourself may work well:
- You have a small, simple system. A few zones, basic PVC or polyethylene lines, and clearly labeled valves.
- You’re handy and detail-oriented. You don’t mind getting a little dirty and following instructions carefully.
- You own or can rent a quality air compressor. For blowouts, you’ll need something that delivers at least 10 CFM at 50 PSI. Small pancake compressors won’t cut it.
- You’ve done it before. Familiarity with your system and confidence using valves and regulators is key.
- You want to learn. Some homeowners enjoy the process and feel proud doing it right.
Tip: Always start with your system manual or check manufacturer guidelines. If you’re not 100% sure how it works, do some homework before you touch anything.
When It’s Better to Hire a Pro
A professional irrigation technician brings experience, specialized tools, and a guarantee of quality. Here’s when you’re better off leaving it to the experts:
- You have a large or complex system. Multiple zones, specialty valves, drip zones, and buried manifolds make DIY tricky.
- Your system includes a backflow preventer. These devices must be handled and drained properly to prevent contamination or damage.
- You’re not confident with compressed air. Using too much PSI can cause more damage than a freeze.
- You’re short on time. A pro can be in and out in less than an hour.
- Your system is under warranty. DIY work could void parts of your warranty if not documented properly.
- You want peace of mind. When you hire a trusted local company, you know it’s done right.
Cost range: Expect to pay $80–$150 depending on system size, region, and whether you book early or last-minute. Bundle with spring startup for savings.
What Does a Professional Sprinkler Winterization Include?
Here’s what a reputable irrigation pro will typically do during a winterization visit:
- Turn off the main water supply to the irrigation system.
- Drain or blow out each irrigation zone using compressed air.
- Check and drain backflow preventer or isolate it as required.
- Inspect valves, sprinkler heads, and manifolds for damage or wear.
- Disable controller/timer, and mark system as winterized.
- Document and report any concerns or recommendations for spring.
Some companies even offer a “winterization certificate” or photo documentation for homeowners or HOAs, adding an extra layer of confidence.
Common DIY Mistakes to Avoid
DIYers often mean well, but sprinkler systems are more sensitive than they look. Here are five of the most common pitfalls:
Winterizing your system is important to avoid costly damage to your system during the freezing winter temperatures.
1. Using Too Much Air Pressure
Residential irrigation pipes and fittings aren’t built for high pressure. Going over 80 PSI can burst pipes, pop heads, or ruin valves. Use a regulator, and start with 50 PSI unless your manufacturer recommends otherwise.
2. Not Blowing Out All Zones
Skipping zones, forgetting drip lines, or not isolating backflow preventers are common misses. Water left in the wrong place can freeze and expand — leading to costly spring repairs.
3. Inadequate Compressor Size
A small air compressor can’t push enough volume to force water out completely. You’ll get a few sputters, think it’s dry, and leave enough behind to freeze. Aim for at least 10 CFM at 50 PSI.
4. Believing Auto-Drain Systems Are Enough
Auto-drain valves are helpful but not foolproof. As we covered in our previous article, they can’t remove all water from every line or fitting. And they can waste gallons of water each summer cycle. Even with an auto-drain system, a blowout or manual drain is still best practice.
5. Forgetting the Controller
If you don’t disable your irrigation controller, a power surge or manual mistake could trigger watering during winter. Frozen lines, accidental flooding, or electrical issues can all follow. Set it to rain mode or turn it off completely.
Spring Startup: Do It Right
Come spring, don’t just crank open the water and hope for the best. Whether you winterized yourself or hired a pro, here’s how to bring your system back online:
1. Inspect Everything Visually
Before turning anything on, check: – Sprinkler heads for cracks, clogs, or misalignment – Valve boxes for pooling water or rodent activity – Backflow preventer for signs of rust, frost damage, or leaks
2. Turn Water Back On Slowly
Open the irrigation supply valve gradually. Sudden pressure surges can cause water hammer and stress the system. Go slow.
3. Run One Zone at a Time
Manually run each zone for 2–5 minutes. Watch for: – Uneven spray (clogged nozzles or debris) – Low pressure (possible underground leaks) – Geysers (broken heads or risers) – Electrical faults (controller not activating zones)
4. Check the Controller
- Update the watering schedule for seasonal needs
- Replace backup batteries if present
- Re-enable rain or soil moisture sensors
5. Look for Signs of Winter Damage
Even if you winterized correctly, extreme cold or shifting soil can cause cracks or misalignments. Listen for hissing sounds, pooling water, or unexplained drops in pressure.
Bonus: Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Sprinkler Pro
Not all irrigation companies are created equal. Here are a few questions that will help you separate the pros from the amateurs:
- Do you use pressure-regulated compressors?
- Are your technicians trained in backflow protection procedures?
- Do you provide any documentation or photos?
- Can you winterize drip zones and specialty irrigation setups?
- Do you offer bundled spring startup packages?
Pro answers will be confident, clear, and willing to educate. That’s a sign they’re not just trying to make a quick buck.
Final Thoughts: DIY Pride vs. Peace of Mind
Doing your own sprinkler winterization can be a great way to save money, learn about your system, and build homeowner confidence. But mistakes are easy, and the stakes are high.
Hiring a professional gives you: – Precision – Speed – Expert inspection – Peace of mind
Think of it like doing your own taxes: if you’re organized and confident, go for it. But if a mistake could cost hundreds or thousands, consider bringing in someone who does it all day, every day.
Bottom line: It’s not just about blowing out pipes — it’s about protecting your landscape, preserving your investment, and sleeping easy all winter long.
So whether you grab your gloves and fire up the compressor, or call your trusted neighborhood pros, take action before the first freeze. Your lawn (and wallet) will thank you come spring.