You should winterize your sprinkler system in Texas about one week before the first expected hard freeze. In most areas, this falls between late October and mid-November.
Winterizing your irrigation system on time stops freezing temperatures from hurting PVC pipes, sprinkler heads, and the manifold.
This guide explains what winterization is, when to do it, what happens if you don’t, and how to prepare your irrigation system step by step.
What Is Sprinkler Winterization?
Winterizing your sprinkler means getting rid of water in the system. This prevents the water from freezing and expanding in the pipes.
This is usually done by draining the water or using compressed air in the blowout method.
Winterizing helps protect underground PVC pipes, sprinkler heads, and the backflow device from freeze damage. This damage can lead to expensive repairs.
Best Time to Winterize Sprinkler Systems in Texas
The right timing depends on weather patterns and where you live in the state.
Watching the Weather Forecast
A “hard freeze” in Texas means outdoor temperatures fall to 28°F or lower for several hours. Once the first freeze arrives, any remaining water in your sprinkler system can expand and break pipes.
Watching local forecasts is the best way to decide when to shut off the water supply and drain the system.
General Timeline Across Texas
- North Texas: Winterize between late October and early November. Freezing temperatures often arrive sooner here.
- Central Texas: Plan for early to mid-November. Freezes arrive later but still pose risks.
- South Texas: Freezes are less frequent. Some years you may not need to winterize, but insulating above-ground parts is still recommended.
What Happens If You Don’t Winterize Sprinklers?
Leaving water inside irrigation systems during a freeze can lead to several types of damage.
Frozen Pipes
When trapped water freezes in underground lines, it expands and cracks pvc pipes. Repairs are expensive and often require digging up large sections of the lawn.
Damaged Sprinkler Heads
Freezing water can pop sprinkler heads off or crack the plastic casing. It can also freeze inside the small tube that pushes the nozzle up. Once broken, the sprinkler head must be replaced.
Broken Manifolds
The manifold, or heart of the system, can split when water inside the valves freezes. Replacing a damaged manifold is one of the most labor-intensive and costly irrigation repairs.
Do You Always Need to Winterize in Texas?
Texas winters are milder than in northern states, but sudden cold snaps still create risks. Above-ground components like the backflow device, shut off valve, and manifold are especially vulnerable.
In South Texas, some homeowners rely on insulation alone, wrapping exposed parts instead of draining the entire system.
How to Winterize Your Sprinkler System in Texas
You can winterize your irrigation system with a manual drain or the blowout method using an air compressor.
Step 1: Shut off the water supply at the main shut off valve.
Step 2: Drain the water or use compressed air to push remaining water out of the lines. If using the blowout method, apply steady air pressure to avoid damaging pvc pipes.
Step 3: Open the test cocks on the backflow device to let remaining water escape.
Step 4: Drain the manifold and valves using the manual drain if available.
Step 5: Insulate exposed pipes, shut off valves, and the backflow device.
Step 6: Set the controller to “off” or “rain mode” to prevent the system from running.
FAQs
What temperature should I winterize sprinklers in Texas?
You should winterize before temperatures fall to 28°F or lower for two or more hours.
Can I winterize my sprinklers myself?
Yes, you can use the manual drain or blowout method with an air compressor. However, many homeowners hire a professional to avoid mistakes.
What if I forget to winterize?
If freezing weather comes and you didn’t drain the system, turn off the water supply right away. Open the test cocks and call for professional help to check for freeze damage.
Key Takeaways on Sprinkler Winterization in Texas
Best time: 1 week before the first hard freeze- Timing varies by region: North, Central, South Texas
- Winterizing your irrigation system prevents costly repairs to pipes, sprinkler heads, and manifolds
Protect Your Sprinkler System Before Winter Hits
Winterizing your sprinkler system is a simple step that protects your lawn and prevents expensive repairs. Lawn Sense provides sprinkler winterization services to Dallas, TX and nearby areas. If you want the job done right, schedule a service today—because Lawn Sense means no nonsense.