Every fall, Michigan homeowners ask the same question: when should I blow out my sprinkler system? Too early and your lawn misses late-season watering; too late and one hard freeze can crack pipes, valves and the backflow preventer. Here is how to time it right.
The Short Answer
In Southwest Michigan, plan to blow out your sprinklers between late September and early November, before overnight temperatures start dropping into the mid-20s. One night just below freezing usually will not damage buried pipes, but the backflow device and above-ground parts are vulnerable sooner.
Why You Need a Blowout
Water expands about 9% when it freezes. Any water left in lines, valves or sprinkler heads can crack them. Draining helps, but water sits in low spots and in the heads themselves. Blowing out each zone with compressed air removes it.
Signs It Is Time
- Lawn growth has slowed and nights are in the 30s
- Leaves are falling and you are planning fall cleanup
- You are leaving for the winter
- The forecast shows the first hard freeze coming
DIY or Hire a Pro?
Blowing out sprinklers needs a large compressor and the right pressure. Too much pressure can damage fittings and heads, and running air through dry heads too long can overheat them. Most homeowners find a professional blowout safer and faster.
Book Your Blowout
AAA Power Washers & Deck Restorations provides sprinkler blowouts across St. Joseph, Benton Harbor, Stevensville, South Haven and Kalamazoo. In spring we will turn it back on with a sprinkler start-up.
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📞 Call or text: 269-292-2612 or email Admin@AAAPowerWashers.com