The national average cost of sprinkler winterization is $60 to $145. However, homeowners with large yards that contain many watering zones may pay as much as $250. Conversely, homeowners with tiny systems may pay as little as $50.
Freezing water expands, causing damage to pipes, sprinkler heads, and irrigation valves. So, winterizing your sprinkler system is crucial if you live in a frigid climate.
This guide has gathered data from multiple cities, including big urban centers and small towns, so you can get a better idea of how much this task will cost in your region.
Cost by location
The cost of sprinkler winterization depends on the local cost of labor and the local climate. Firstly, local labor costs vary depending on the local cost of living, service demand, and service providers’ availability.
Also, the cost of winterization may be higher if you live somewhere that doesn’t usually freeze but is getting unusually cold weather.
See the table below for an estimate of the cost to winterize a sprinkler system across the U.S.:
| City | Average cost |
| Northeast U.S. | |
| Portland, ME | $57 – $138 |
| Boston, MA | $70 – $169 |
| Southeast U.S. | |
| Atlanta, GA | $57 – $139 |
| Raleigh, NC | $52 – $125 |
| Midwest U.S. | |
| Detroit, MI | $62 – $150 |
| Madison, WI | $63 – $153 |
| Northwest U.S. | |
| Missoula, MT | $56 – $135 |
| Boise, ID | $62 – $150 |
| Southwest U.S. | |
| Phoenix, AZ | $56 – $136 |
| Colorado Springs, CO | $58 – $140 |
| Las Vegas, NV | $60 – $146 |
Cost by winterization method
Having your sprinkler system drained before temperatures freeze protects your sprinklers from winter damage. The cost of sprinkler winterization depends on the drainage method used. Please see typical prices by drainage method in the table below:
| Winterization method | Average cost |
| Manual drain | $68.50 – $150 |
| Automatic drain | $76.50 – $166.50 |
| Blowout method | $83.50 – $216.50 |
Manual drain
A manual drain is the cheapest method, typically costing $68.50 to $150. Your sprinkler system must have manual shut-off valves to allow for manual drainage. Manual drainage systems often need a blowout because water may stay in low areas of the system. Any trapped moisture can lead to broken pipes, sprinkler heads, and valves.
Automatic drain
If your sprinklers have an automatic drain and don’t need a blowout, expect to pay $76.50 to $166.50. These systems have automatic drain valves that self-drain when the main water supply shuts off. Unfortunately, like manual drains, many automatic drains still need a blowout.
Blowout method
A sprinkler system blowout is the most expensive drainage method, and it typically costs $83.50 to $216.50, depending on the number of watering zones and other cost factors. If the sprinkler pro suggests you get a blowout, you should take that suggestion to avoid costly repairs.
The blowout method involves blowing compressed air into your sprinkler system’s pipes. The high pressure pushes all the water out of your system through the sprinkler heads. A blowout is the most effective method of removing water, even if you have an automatic or manual drain valve.
Cost by the number of watering zones
If you have a lawn sprinkler system with 1 or 2 watering zones, you may pay as much as $50 per zone. However, homeowners with three or more sprinkler zones typically pay $26.50 per zone.
See the typical prices in the table below:
| Number of zones | Typical overall cost of winterization |
| 1 – 2 | $50 – $75 |
| 3 – 4 | $80 – $100 |
| 5 – 6 | $100 – $130 |
| 7 – 8 | $150 – $250 |
What is a watering zone? A watering zone is a segment of your yard that receives water from the same water valve. Different vegetation has different watering needs, and separate zones can have particular equipment for different watering regimens. Additionally, most homes can only produce enough water pressure to water part of the lawn.
Pro cost vs. DIY cost
You can save money by learning how to winterize your sprinkler system. A do-it-yourself blowout is typically completed in one day, costing $30 to $60 for an air compressor rental. Most homeowners can do a manual or automatic drain with $0 out-of-pocket cost. However, improper winterization can lead to costly repairs.
Unless a licensed professional tells you that you don’t need a blowout, it isn’t advisable to skip it. Any water left in the pipes can cause significant damage to your sprinkler system. Furthermore, many sprinkler care contractors guarantee their work, so you know you won’t get stuck with expensive repairs.
Other factors that affect cost
Every lawn is different, and as a result, so is every sprinkler system. Here are other factors that can impact the final price of sprinkler system winterization:
Service contracts
Many sprinkler maintenance companies offer yearly service contracts that include sprinkler winterization, spring activation, and inspections. Additionally, some lawn care companies have winterization service packages that include lawn and sprinkler winterization. Purchasing packages is an excellent way to save money.
Time of service
Many sprinkler care specialists like to winterize all of their clients at the same time, typically in the fall. Thus, fall is usually the most cost-effective time to winterize your sprinklers. However, it is best to schedule your service at the time recommended by the professional. Not only can it save you money, but it will also be the optimal time for protecting your sprinklers.
Spring activation
Once the temperature starts rising again, your sprinkler system will need to be activated. This service includes inspecting and cleaning every component, increasing pressure in the system, and then checking for leaks.
You can expect to pay, on average, $46.50 to $141.50 for spring activation.
FAQ
Yes, your sprinklers will freeze at 20 F. Water freezes at 32 F / 0°C, so your sprinkler system is in danger of freezing any time the temperature drops below that level for a significant period of time.
A 20 – 25 CFM (cubic feet per minute) air compressor has enough air volume to blow out a sprinkler system. Anything less than that won’t have the strength to push all the water out of your sprinklers.
Shut down right to start up strong
If the leaves are changing, it’s probably time to winterize your sprinkler system. If you wait until after the first freeze, you are setting your sprinkler system up for disaster. Avoid costly repairs by contacting a sprinkler care pro near you before it’s too late, and start up strong in spring.
While booking, consider adding a final mow and leaf cleanup to ensure your lawn is ready for winter, tidy, and fungus-free.
Read More:
– How Much Does Sprinkler Repair Cost?
– How Much Does it Cost to Install a Sprinkler System?
– Choosing the Right Type of Sprinkler for Your Lawn
– How to Adjust Sprinkler Heads
– Sprinkler System Maintenance Checklist
Note: Lawn Love may get a referral fee for matching you with contractors in your area or Rain Bird sprinkler systems.
Main Image: Sprinkler system in a lawn. PxHere
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