Cost to Winterize a Sprinkler System in 2024

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On this page:

• How Much Does Sprinkler System Winterization Cost?
• Other Necessary Tasks
• Spring Activation Costs
• Professional Winterizing
• References

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How Much Does Sprinkler System Winterization Cost?

Since water turning to ice expands as it freezes, water that has pooled and been trapped inside the lines can burst your pipes and damage valves and heads, particularly if it freezes quickly, so if there is a lot of water still inside the system.^[1] Replacing broken pipes can cost twice as much as winterizing and activating your lawn sprinkler system. These damages usually amount to $200 to $350, depending on the extent.

The cost to install a lawn sprinkler system is around $3,100, so performing routine maintenance, like winterizing, will ensure your system gets the maximum years of use.

Some homeowners perform the task of blowing out the pipes themselves. However, since it costs $50 or $60 per day to rent a compressor, it is usually less expensive to get it done professionally.

The national average to winterize and blow out your sprinkler system is $90.^[2] The typical range is $60 to $125, with the minimum price being $40, while the highest is about $275.

Other Necessary Tasks

Once the system gets purged of water, simply shut off the master valve and all controllers. The irrigation installer or landscaper should do this as part of the winterization, but it’s best to ask.

Then, your lawn sprinkler system should be sound until spring, when you will need to have it activated again.

Spring Activation Costs

Activating your system for spring and summer irrigation will cost $50 to $150, depending on the minimum service call charge of the irrigation technician or landscaper. Typically, landscapers have a set price for this task. There are more steps to activating your system than just turning on the water.^[3]

The technician or landscaper should inspect the backflow preventer before they gradually return the water pressure. Turning on the water too fast could cause damage to delicate heads and valves. Then, they should check the complete system by zone to ensure there are no leaks or damage before activating the controllers.

In case of damage, an hourly rate is often set to fix all damage or break it down by part. New head replacement depends on which head needs replacement.

Professional Winterizing

For hassle-free cost estimates from several professional landscapers around you, use our easy contractor locator. We suggest looking for a contractor with the best cost-to-service and also warranties their work.

It may seem obvious, but many homeowners do not check the statement of work thoroughly before hiring a landscaper or contractor. They are then disappointed when they don’t get what they thought they were getting.

Always read the contract before signing, and compare with other contractors to find the right fit.

Whether you use a professional service or do the winterization yourself, it is essential to get it done each year to prevent expensive repairs.

Learn more about the costs of other common landscaping projects.

All pricing information on this page is based on average industry costs, and is subject to variance for project-specific materials, labor rates, and requirements.