Many homeowners assume their sprinkler system can be ignored once winter arrives. In reality, sprinkler repair and winter maintenance are just as important during colder months as they are in summer. While lawns require less water in winter, irrigation systems still need attention to prevent freeze damage, mechanical failure, and costly repairs when spring returns.

At Smart Earth Sprinklers, we provide winter system service and inspections designed to protect your irrigation investment and keep it operating reliably year-round. A professional winter visit helps ensure your system is prepared for colder temperatures while remaining functional and ready for seasonal transitions.

What Happens to Sprinkler Systems in Winter?

Even in milder climates, winter conditions introduce risks that can quietly damage irrigation systems.

Cold weather can cause:

• Expansion and contraction of pipes
• Stuck valves and diaphragms
• Seal failure inside sprinkler heads
• Cracks in exposed components
• Backflow device damage from freezing

Leaving a sprinkler system completely inactive all winter can be just as harmful as running it incorrectly. Think of it like parking a car for six months without starting it. When you finally turn it back on, problems are almost guaranteed.

What’s Included in a Winter Sprinkler System Inspection

A professional winter service visit goes beyond a basic visual check. Smart Earth Sprinklers performs system diagnostics and preventative adjustments to protect your system through the colder season.

Backflow Protection and Insulation

The backflow prevention valve is one of the most vulnerable components during winter.

Our winter inspection includes:

• Checking backflow valves for proper operation
• Ensuring above-ground backflow devices are properly insulated
• Identifying exposure points that could freeze during cold snaps

Freeze-damaged backflow devices can lead to expensive repairs and potential code violations, making this step especially important.

Identifying Vulnerable Freeze Points

Not all freeze damage is obvious. Certain areas of an irrigation system are more susceptible than others.

We inspect:

• Exposed pipes
• Shallow lines
• Valve boxes
• Connection points near foundations or hardscapes

By identifying these risks early, homeowners can avoid unexpected leaks and system failures.

Controller Adjustments for Winter Watering

Winter irrigation needs are very different from summer demands. While grass growth slows, lawns still need some water during winter to maintain root health and prevent soil compaction.

As part of winter service, we can:

• Adjust controller settings for seasonal conditions
• Reduce run times to prevent overwatering
• Program winter schedules upon request

Importantly, even if you choose not to water your lawn regularly, the sprinkler system should still activate briefly once or twice a month. Running the system for just a minute or two helps:

• Keep internal seals lubricated
• Prevent sediment buildup
• Reduce valve diaphragm sticking

Completely shutting the system off for months increases the likelihood of stuck valves and failed seals when spring arrives.

Inspecting Sprinkler Heads, Valves, and Lines

Winter inspections are an ideal time to address wear and tear that often goes unnoticed during peak watering season.

During service, we:

• Inspect and adjust sprinkler heads
• Check for broken or sunken heads
• Look for visible pipe damage or leaks
• Confirm valves are opening and closing properly

Sprinkler heads and valves experience constant exposure to pressure, dirt, and debris. Over time, seals wear down, especially when systems sit unused for long periods.

Why Leaving Sprinklers Completely Off Causes Problems

One of the most common misconceptions is that turning the sprinkler system off all winter protects it. In reality, inactivity often causes more damage.

When systems remain unused:

• Seals inside sprinkler heads dry out
• Valve diaphragms stick open or closed
• Sediment settles inside lines
• Initial spring startup leads to leaks and failures

Regular winter activation and professional inspection help prevent these issues and reduce spring repair costs.

Preventing Costly Repairs Before Spring

Winter service allows technicians to identify problems early and provide estimates for any additional repairs before they escalate.

This proactive approach helps homeowners:

• Avoid emergency sprinkler repair calls
• Budget repairs more effectively
• Enter spring with a fully functional system
• Extend the overall lifespan of their irrigation system

Sprinkler systems are a significant investment. Protecting them through winter maintenance is far more affordable than replacing damaged components later.

Why Choose Smart Earth Sprinklers for Winter Service

Smart Earth Sprinklers specializes in seasonal sprinkler maintenance, inspections, and sprinkler repair tailored to real-world conditions. Our winter services are designed to keep systems protected, functional, and ready for spring.

Our technicians focus on:

• Preventative care
• System efficiency
• Long-term reliability
• Honest repair recommendations

We are currently offering a Winter Sprinkler Service Special. You can book by phone or online.  

Schedule Your Winter Sprinkler Service Today

Winter is not the time to neglect your irrigation system. Proper inspections, insulation, and seasonal adjustments can save you time, money, and frustration when warmer weather returns.

Want help with this? Call (512) 694-1147 or Contact us now to schedule your winter sprinkler system service with Smart Earth Sprinklers.