Skip to content
English
Submit Warranty Service Request
Homes for Sale
  • There are no suggestions because the search field is empty.

How do I winterize irrigation system?

Prevent your irrigation system from freezing during winter months when freeze warnings in place

Important: Not all homes will have a backflow preventer device, this varies based on the municipality in which you live and also the year when your home was built.

  1. Turn irrigation controller to the OFF position. This is the electronic controller located in the garage.
  2. Turn off water to irrigation system. Cut off will be located next to water meter at the street in a 6” sleeve with a green lid. Depending on what municipality your home was built in it may have two cut offs located at the street by the water meter. One will be in line with the water meter which is the cut off to your home, do not cut this one off. The sprinkler cut off is the next valve after the water cut off. The off position is perpendicular to the valve. If you live in a municipality that does not required a water cut off valve then there will be only one 6” sleeve with a green lid within 2’ of your water meter. This is the sprinkler cut off valve. Again the off position is perpendicular to the valve.
  3. Locate irrigation backflow device. This device will be located on the side of your home, typically on the same side as the water meter. It is an above ground brass device - do not mess with the black cap on the top.
  4. Remove the yellow caps/plugs from the end of the test cocks, if any.
  5. Locate straight bit screw driver slot on the side of each test cock and turn them ¼ of a turn. This process will open the test cocks relieving all water pressure from the irrigation system. Leave the test cocks in the open position until you decide to start using your system again. Water should run out of the test cocks for only a couple of minutes. If water continues to run out of the test cocks then the irrigation cut off at the street is not fully closed.

Warning: DO NOT TURN CUT OFFS LOCATED ON THE BACKFLOW DEVICE. THIS WILL RESULT IN THE DEVICE FREEZING INTERNALLY AND CAUSING A FRACTURE IN THE BODY.

It is also suggested to insulate the device in some manner. Insulated pouches are sold at most hardware stores, your new Omega home should have a green cover.

You'll only want to winterize your irrigation when a freeze warning is in place. If temperatures are not going to be below freezing, you should continue to water your lawn as scheduled to avoid drying out the soil which could cause issues with your foundation.

Important: Your warranty does not cover damage caused by a system freeze, you are responsible for ensuring you follow these steps as a preventative measure.


Winterizing Your Irrigation System - Printable PDF

Set a Reminder: You'll also need to follow these steps to prepare your irrigation for spring.