Turn off the water to the irrigation system at the master valve. Set timer to rain mode or disconnect power. Open a hose bend. Drain water into a bucket. Close all drains.
Charge air compressor to 60 PSI. Attach air compressor hose to a hose bib fitting. Turn on the compressor and work in a downward motion from the most uphill location. Watch sprinklers as mist is released and move to the next section of the irrigation system as mist turns to air. Repeat process.
Inspect backflow preventer for water and drain. Open all drains. Set ball valves and drains at a 45-degree angle.
Apply foam insulating tape to any above-ground irrigation system pipes. Wrap foam insulation tubes around each pipe. Place foam insulating tape on backflow preventer without covering drain outlets and vents.