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Winter Irrigation Preparation

Cold desert nights can freeze exposed irrigation components even when daytime temperatures are mild.

Complete these steps before the first hard freeze and recheck the system whenever freezing weather is forecast.

  • Adjust watering: Reduce run days and seasonal percentage as plants become dormant. Water only when soil is dry and follow local provider requirements. Check with Cooperative Extension for your plants watering needs if you have questions. Office locations can be found at: https://extension.unr.edu/county-offices.aspx
  • Watch the forecast: Pause irrigation during rain, snow, high winds, or freezing conditions. Water in mid-morning—not overnight—to reduce ice hazards.
  • Know the temperature triggers: At 40°F, monitor forecasts and prepare exposed components. At 32°F, pause irrigation to prevent freezing and ice. At 28°F or below for several hours, drain vulnerable sections; near 20°F, trapped water can cause major damage.
  • Fix irrigation supplies: Repair leaks, broken heads, clogged emitters, overspray, and low-head drainage. Clean filters and flush drip lines. Protect exposed equipment: Insulate above-ground pipes, valves, filters, and backflow assemblies without blocking vents or drains before the first frost.
  • Drain vulnerable sections: Shut off and drain seasonal or exposed lines that can trap water. Use compressed air only when the system design requires it and the work can be done safely.
  • Set the controller: Use Off, Rain Delay, or a reduced winter program while preserving spring settings. Confirm rain or freeze sensors operate correctly.
  • Consider a weather-based controller: It uses local weather and landscape conditions to automatically adjust watering, reducing overwatering, runoff, and seasonal guesswork while supporting plant health. A properly installed WaterSense-labeled model can also lower water use and costs. 
  • Email BeWaterSmart@greatbasinwaterco.com for a Rebate application.
  • Check after freezes: Look for cracked fittings, leaks, pressure loss, or damaged emitters before returning the system to normal operation.