Every year, Fort Collins homeowners deal with cracked pipes and busted sprinkler heads because they waited too long — or didn’t winterize their irrigation at all. If you’re not protecting your sprinkler system before the first deep freeze, you’re risking a spring repair bill that could’ve been avoided. Here’s what professional landscapers recommend for winterizing your system the right way.
When to Winterize in Northern Colorado
Aim to shut down and blow out your sprinkler system before temperatures drop below 30°F overnight — typically mid-October in Fort Collins. Even one surprise cold snap can damage underground lines.
Step-by-Step: How the Pros Winterize Sprinklers
If you’re hiring a landscaping contractor in Fort Collins like Grey Rock, here’s what the process usually includes:
1. Turn Off the Water Supply
Close the main valve that feeds your irrigation system, whether it’s off the main line or a backflow preventer.
2. Shut Down the Controller
Switch your irrigation controller to “off” or put it in rain mode so it doesn’t activate during winter.
3. Drain the System
Manual, auto, or blow-out — each system type requires a different drain method. Blow-outs are the most common in Fort Collins.
4. Blow Out the Lines with Air
Professional contractors use an air compressor to force all water from the lines, starting with zone 1. The pressure must be regulated to avoid damage (usually around 50–80 PSI depending on pipe type).
5. Insulate Exposed Components
Wrap backflow preventers, valves, and exposed PVC with insulation tape or a foam cover.
Should You Do It Yourself?
If you have the right air compressor and know your system layout, you might attempt it yourself. But here’s the risk:
One missed zone or too much air pressure can burst your lines.
That’s why most Fort Collins homeowners let pros handle it — the cost is small compared to repairs, and it’s done in under an hour.
Pro Tip from Grey Rock
We offer bundled winterization services with end-of-season lawn cleanup, giving your entire landscape a proper send-off for winter.
Bonus: What Else Should You Winterize?
- Disconnect hoses and store them indoors
- Blow out drip irrigation lines if installed
- Clear leaf debris from lawn and beds
- Turn off water features and drain them
If you’re unsure whether your system is winter-ready, your landscaping contractor can walk the property and confirm.
📞 Book Sprinkler Winterization in Fort Collins Now
Avoid cracked pipes and waterlogged yards next spring. Call Grey Rock Landscape and Construction at 970-316-4787 to schedule your irrigation blow-out and protect your investment.
