As the temperatures drop in Texas, many homeowners assume it’s time to shut off their sprinkler systems for the season. But in reality, occasional winter watering is still important, especially for newer landscapes or sensitive plantings. With the right controller settings and upgrades, your irrigation system can continue to support your landscape efficiently through the colder months.
Here’s how to manage winter irrigation like a pro, plus how seasonal maintenance can save you water, stress, and costly repairs.
Use the Seasonal Adjust Feature
Most standard irrigation controllers include a “seasonal adjust” or “water budget” setting. This allows you to reduce your zone run times as a percentage of your summer schedule, without needing to reprogram each zone individually. In winter, reducing your schedule to 30–50% is often enough to maintain root health while preventing overwatering.
It’s a simple tweak that makes a big difference.
Upgrade with Smart Add-On Sensors
Want to make your system more responsive to changing weather? Consider installing smart add-on sensors:
- Rain Sensors automatically stop your sprinklers when it starts to rain. Many models allow customization so the system only shuts down after a certain amount of rainfall.
Texas law requires all new automated systems and replacement controllers to include a rain sensor approved by the TCEQ (Texas Commission on Environmental Quality). - Freeze Sensors shut off your irrigation when temperatures drop to a set point, protecting your system from damage and preventing dangerous ice buildup on sidewalks and driveways. Many models combine both rain and freeze sensing in one compact unit.
These add-ons are affordable upgrades that help your system stay efficient year-round.
Consider a Weather-Based Smart Controller
For even more control and efficiency, look into upgrading to a weather-based (ET) controller. These smart systems use environmental data to automatically adjust watering schedules based on actual conditions, not guesswork.
Types of Smart Controllers:
- Historical-Based Controllers rely on decades of local weather data to guide watering. Some include sensors to improve accuracy, though manual adjustments may still be needed during abnormal seasons.
- On-Site Sensor-Based Controllers collect real-time data from sensors placed at your property, measuring rainfall, temperature, and soil moisture to fine-tune your schedule daily.
- Signal-Based Controllers receive remote weather updates via cellular, radio, or web connections. They’re low-maintenance, require no on-site sensors, and often include premium features like leak alerts and mobile app access.
Whichever type you choose, smart controllers are a powerful way to keep your landscape healthy while using less water.
Don’t Skip Seasonal Maintenance
Even the smartest irrigation system needs regular attention to work its best. That’s why we offer a Scheduled Maintenance Plan at Smart Earth Sprinklers, designed to protect your investment, prevent breakdowns, and extend the life of your system.
Seasonal Maintenance Membership Includes:
- Two Scheduled Maintenance Visits per Year (for up to nine zones)*
- 5% Off Necessary Repairs
- 5% Off Any Additional Service Visits
- Scheduling Reminders – because we know sprinklers aren’t always top of mind
- Priority on Our Waitlist During Busy Season
- 1-Year Warranty on All Repairs
- Technician Familiarity – consistent service from someone who knows your system
What’s Included in Each Maintenance Visit:
- Complete System Inspection (up to 9 zones — $109 value per visit)
- Basic Diagnostics & Troubleshooting
- Sprinkler Head Adjustments
- Check for Broken Heads, Pipes, or Visible Leaks
- Zone Valve Function Check
- Controller Programming upon request
- Repair Estimates for any additional work needed
These routine checkups, especially in spring and winter, ensure your system is properly calibrated, leak-free, and ready to perform when it matters most.
Ready to Winterize Smarter?
Whether you’re looking to fine-tune your controller, install a rain or freeze sensor, or schedule a seasonal checkup, Smart Earth Sprinklers has you covered. Let us help you protect your landscape and conserve water, no matter the season.
Contact us today to book with Smart Earth Sprinklers, call us at (512) 694-1147 or reach out online.
