How to Turn Off a Sprinkler Line

Failing to winterize your lawn sprinkler system could result in burst pipes and broken sprinkler valves when the water freezes and expands. Shutting off the sprinkler line and bleeding out the water still in the pipes will prevent catastrophic failure during the cold winter months and save you from having to install a new watering system come summertime. Some sprinkler systems are automated and can be shutdown using a control panel, while others require you to manually turn off the line and empty it of water.

Instructions

- 1
  Determine if your sprinkler has a digital control panel that allows you to turn off the sprinkler's water line using an automated system. Consult with the company that installed the system or check the literature included with the sprinkler. The digital panel may be either inside or outside. Turn the dial or press the button labeled "Off."
- 2
  Locate the manual shut-off valve if a digital control panel isn't available; the valve will likely be labeled "Shut Off," though the precise wording can vary. The valve is likely a handle or knob you can turn in one direction to open the line and the other direction to close the line. Turn the handle or knob to the "Off" or "Closed" position.
- 3
  Open the outside drain or valve to release the water remaining in the pipe if you're shutting the line off for a long duration, such as for the winter season. The water may be pressurized initially and will spray outwards. Leave the valve open until no more drains from the line, then close the drain.

How to Change a Belt on a Craftsman Tiller

Mulching Vs. Side Blowing Grass

Lawn Tools