Sprinkler System Winterization Guide for Dallas: Protecting Your Irrigation from Freeze Damage

Annual winterization prevents catastrophic freeze damage that destroys irrigation components and causes $2,000-$5,000+ in spring repairs. While DFW winters are typically mild, hard freezes can rupture pipes, crack valves, and destroy backflow preventers when water remains in the system.

Why Winterization Matters in North Texas

DFW temperatures regularly drop below 28°F, the threshold for pipe damage when water is stationary.

Hard freeze events in DFW:

• Average 5-15 nights below freezing annually
• Occasional single-digit temperature extremes
• Rapid temperature drops that catch homeowners unprepared

When water freezes in irrigation components:

• Pipes expand and crack
• Valve components rupture
• Backflow preventers split ($400-$800 replacement cost)
• Sprinkler heads crack

Professional Winterization Process

Step 1: System Shut-Off

Close the main isolation valve stopping water supply to the irrigation system. This valve is typically located:

• Near water meter
• In basement or utility room
• Underground in valve box

Step 2: Controller Deactivation

Prevent accidental activation during winter:

• Set controller to "off" or "rain mode"
• Unplug controllers without battery backup (if desired)
• Verify no scheduled programs are active

Step 3: Backflow Preventer Drainage

The backflow preventer is the most freeze-vulnerable component.

Proper drainage:

• Close isolation valves on both sides of backflow
• Open test cocks (small valves) to release water
• Open drain valves to empty the device
• Leave valves in open position for winter

Additional protection:

• Insulation blankets or wraps
• Heat tape for extreme cold protection
• Enclosure for above-ground installations

Step 4: Zone Blow-Out

Compressed air evacuation removes residual water from pipes and heads.

Professional blow-out procedure:

• Connect commercial air compressor (50+ CFM) to blow-out point
• Activate each zone sequentially
• Air pushes water through heads until mist appears (no droplets)
• Repeat if necessary for complete evacuation

Warning: Improper blow-out technique can damage components. Excessive pressure or incorrect procedure risks:

• Misting head damage
• Pipe stress from pressure spikes
• Valve component failure

Step 5: Component Drainage

Drain remaining vulnerable points:

• Valve box drainage
• Low-point drain valves
• Above-ground component emptying

DIY vs. Professional Winterization

DIY Considerations

DIY winterization requires:

• Commercial-grade air compressor (rental: $50-$100/day)
• Knowledge of system layout and component locations
• Time investment (2-4 hours for typical residential system)
• Risk of incomplete protection or component damage

Professional Service Benefits

Sandoval Landscaping winterization includes:

• Complete system drainage using proper equipment
• Component inspection identifying issues before spring
• Backflow preventer protection
• System documentation and winterization date records
• Spring activation scheduling
• Repairs identified during process

Winterization Timing

Optimal timing: Late October through early November, before first hard freeze

DFW first freeze averages: November 15-22

Risk factors requiring earlier winterization:

• Early cold fronts forecast
• Above-ground backflow preventers (more freeze-vulnerable)
• History of freeze damage

Spring Activation

Professional spring activation includes:

• Gradual system pressurization preventing water hammer
• Zone-by-zone inspection for winter damage
• Head adjustment and alignment
• Controller reprogramming for season
• Leak detection and repair

Winterization Costs

DIY: $50-$150 (compressor rental, time investment)

Professional residential: $75-$150 (typical DFW pricing)

Commercial systems: $200-$500+ (system size dependent)

Cost of NOT winterizing: $400-$2,000+ in freeze damage repairs

Conclusion

Annual winterization is inexpensive insurance against catastrophic freeze damage. Sandoval Landscaping provides comprehensive winterization services throughout DFW, with flexible scheduling and bundled spring activation options.

Learn more about irrigation services: Smart Irrigation & Water Management Guide