Irrigation Winterization (Blow-Out)

What winterization is

Winterization (also called a blow-out) uses controlled compressed air to clear water from irrigation piping and valves so freezing temperatures don't crack components.

What to expect

• Zones are cleared systematically (not rushed)
• We watch for zone issues and red flags as we clear
• Controller is set to an off/seasonal state

Our winterization workflow (freeze protection)

1. Water off + system prep: verify isolation and prepare the system for air without creating new stress points.
2. Controlled air management: use safe pressure/volume and clear zones in a disciplined sequence (not max PSI and hope).
3. Confirm drainage behavior: watch for low points, trapped water, and zones that refuse to clear.
4. Identify risk areas: valve boxes, backflow/PVB assemblies, drip zones, and any atypical plumbing.
5. Seasonal shut-down: set controller to an off/seasonal state and confirm nothing will run unexpectedly.

Common problems we catch during blow-outs

• A zone won’t clear: often points to a stuck valve, broken lateral, or trapped water in a low spot.
• Heads don’t pop / sputter: can indicate a clogged screen/nozzle, a pinched line, or a valve problem.
• Persistent water in valve boxes: a red flag for weeping valves or mainline leaks that become spring surprises.
• Backflow/PVB issues: older seals and vents can start weeping after a freeze-thaw season (parts guide: Febco 765 Air Vent Kit).
• Drip zones: filters/regulators and long runs can hold water; they require the right method to protect emitters and tubing (see: filter + regulator basics).
• Controller/valve mapping gaps: mislabeled zones create rushed service and missed issues — we can help improve clarity.

Upgrades that pay off (less damage, easier service)

• Valve reliability: clean, dry valve boxes and proactive rebuilds reduce spring failures (see: Rain Bird DV Series Valve).
• Pressure discipline: when high pressure is present, a PRV is a high-impact reliability upgrade (guide: Pressure Reducing Valve (PRV)).
• Service readiness: better labeling, access improvements, and planned repairs make startups faster and more predictable.
• Drip/micro-drip expansions: beds and containers are a great fit for “no overspray” watering (see: micro-drip and emitter options).

Related: Febco 765 Air Vent Kit (common backflow repair path), Smart Control & Reliability Equipment (Smart Node + Smart Link + SRMS equipment), and Service Plans (seasonal coverage).