Keller homeowners know how unpredictable North Texas winters can be. One week it’s sunny and 70 degrees, and the next morning there’s a hard freeze. That’s why so many people ask, “How do I winterize my irrigation system in Keller?” Even though we don’t deal with long stretches of freezing temperatures, it only takes one cold snap to crack pipes, damage valves, and create expensive repair bills in spring.

RandO Landscape helps homeowners protect their sprinkler systems long before the first freeze hits. Winterizing isn’t complicated, but doing it the right way makes a big difference. A little preparation now keeps your system running smoothly — and saves you headaches later.

Why Keller Irrigation Systems Need Winterization

Sprinkler systems installed in Texas often sit much closer to the soil surface than systems up north. That means they’re more vulnerable to freeze damage, especially at the backflow preventer, valves, and any exposed PVC.

how do i winterize my irrigation system in keller

Frozen water expands inside the pipes, and even a small amount of pressure can crack fittings, blow open joints, or split pipes underground. Many homeowners don’t notice damage right away — but come spring, they see:

  • Weak water pressure in certain zones

  • Sprinkler heads that won’t pop up

  • Wet spots or bubbling soil

  • Higher water bills from hidden leaks

Winterizing helps prevent all of these problems before they start.

Step 1: Turn Off Your Irrigation Controller

Your irrigation controller needs to be shut down for the winter. Most systems have an “Off” or “Rain Mode” setting. Rain Mode is ideal because it maintains your saved schedules for spring but stops the system from running.

If you’re using a smart controller, you can pause watering from your phone. If you’re thinking about upgrading, winter is the perfect time — RandO Landscape installs and programs smart irrigation controllers for homeowners wanting better water management.

Step 2: Shut Off the Water Supply to Your Sprinkler System

Next, locate the irrigation shutoff valve. This is usually found in a green utility box near the curb, next to the water meter, or by the side of your home. Turning off this valve prevents new water from entering the system during freezing conditions.

Once the valve is off, your system won’t try to refill, and any insulation you add will work more effectively.

Step 3: Protect and Insulate the Backflow Preventer

Your backflow preventer is the part most likely to freeze. It’s above ground and exposed to wind, cold, and moisture. If it cracks, repairs can get expensive fast.

To protect it:

  • Wrap it with foam pipe insulation

  • Add towels or thick cloth for added temperature control

  • Cover the entire unit with a waterproof insulation bag

You can find “backflow blankets” at most hardware stores. For homeowners wanting detailed freeze protection guidelines, the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension offers reliable recommendations for insulating outdoor plumbing.

Step 4: Drain Exposed Components

While we don’t always need full “air compressor blowouts” in Keller, you still need to drain any above-ground irrigation components.

This includes:

  • Opening test cocks on your backflow preventer

  • Releasing water from manual drain valves

  • Tilting parts slightly to encourage water to escape

Any water left in exposed valves or fittings can freeze and expand. A few minutes of draining now could prevent hundreds of dollars in repairs later.

Step 5: Adjust Winter Watering Carefully

Completely shutting off your sprinklers for winter isn’t always the best move. North Texas can go weeks without rain, and cold, dry conditions can cause lawns and plants to dehydrate.

You have two options:

  1. Keep the system off but water manually every few weeks.

  2. Use reduced, midday watering cycles once every 2–3 weeks.

RandO Landscape can program your system for winter to keep things safe, efficient, and low-maintenance.

Step 6: Inspect Your System for Needed Repairs

Winterization is the ideal time to identify small issues before they turn into big springtime problems. During a professional inspection, technicians check for:

  • Slow leaks

  • Cracked heads

  • Faulty wiring

  • Weak valves

  • Misaligned spray patterns

Our irrigation system services include full winter readiness checks, so your system starts strong when warm weather returns.

Common Keller Winterization Questions

Do I really need to winterize in Keller?
Yes. One freeze can crack a backflow and cost hundreds of dollars to replace.

Do I need an irrigation blowout?
Typically no — it’s rarely necessary for North Texas systems unless they were installed unusually shallow.

Can I winterize the system myself?
Absolutely. But if you’re unsure about valves or insulation methods, professional help is fast and affordable.

When should I winterize my system?
Late October through early December — or before the first predicted freeze.

If You’re Looking for Irrigation Winterization in Keller

RandO Landscape makes it simple to protect your system before freezing temperatures arrive. We provide professional winterization, inspections, insulation, and repairs to keep your irrigation system safe all winter. Our team is known for dependable service, fair pricing, and quick scheduling — exactly what Keller homeowners need during unpredictable winter weather.

If you want your irrigation system prepared the right way, contact us today to schedule your winterization service.