As 2023 draws to a close, homeowners need to be mindful of the dropping temperatures, often consistently at or below 32°F, bringing with it the possibility of snow. For lawns, particularly in regions like Nebraska, grass dormancy is already in effect. Understanding how winter weather impacts your lawn and irrigation system is crucial, and Pioneer Underground Lawn Sprinklers is here to guide you through proper winterization.
Understanding Winter Dormancy and Nebraska Temperatures
Looking back at the past five years, temperature data from Nebraska Mesonet (Tables 1 & 2) reveals a consistent pattern. While average high temperatures in December for cities like Lincoln, Omaha, Scottsbluff, and North Platte have generally remained above freezing, the average low temperatures plummet well below freezing. This significant temperature drop reinforces the dormancy period for both warm and cool-season grasses in Nebraska lawns.
This dormancy is a natural survival mechanism for turfgrass. As temperatures decrease, grass conserves energy and moisture, preparing for the colder months. Introducing unnecessary irrigation during this phase can be detrimental, especially when freezing temperatures are a concern.
Why Winterizing Your Sprinkler System is Essential
Turning off your irrigation system and properly winterizing it before the deep freeze is not just recommended—it’s essential. Neglecting this crucial step can lead to several problems:
- Preventing Costly Irrigation System Damage: Operating your sprinkler system when temperatures dip below 32°F poses a significant risk. Water freezing within the pipes, valves, and sprinkler heads can expand, leading to cracks and breaks. These damages often go unnoticed until spring, resulting in costly repairs and potential system failure when you need your sprinklers the most. Rely on Pioneer Underground Lawn Sprinklers‘ expertise to avoid these preventable issues.
- Protecting Dormant Grass: Dormant grass is in a fragile state, conserving resources to survive the winter. Introducing irrigation during dormancy is not only unnecessary but can also disrupt this natural process. Excess water in freezing temperatures can lead to ice formation around the grass roots, potentially suffocating the plant and hindering healthy growth in the spring. Trust that dormant lawns do not require watering during winter months.
- Avoiding Unnecessary Water Use: Watering dormant lawns in December is simply not needed. Grass growth has ceased, and the plant is not actively absorbing water. Continuing to irrigate is a waste of water and energy. Conserving water during winter is environmentally responsible and can lower your utility bills.
Proactive Winterization Steps with Pioneer Underground Lawn Sprinklers
To safeguard your irrigation system and lawn, Pioneer Underground Lawn Sprinklers recommends taking these proactive winterization steps before temperatures consistently drop below freezing:
- Deactivate Your Irrigation Controller: Turn off the main power to your irrigation controller. Even if your system is programmed to remain off during winter, unexpected temperature fluctuations or programming errors could trigger a watering cycle. Completely deactivating the controller eliminates this risk.
- Insulate Outdoor Faucets: Protect outdoor faucets from freezing by covering them with insulated faucet covers or buckets. This simple measure prevents freezing and potential bursting of exposed pipes, especially during periods of snow and ice.
- Drain Garden Hoses: Disconnect and thoroughly drain all garden hoses. Water left inside hoses can freeze, causing the hose material to crack and weaken. Draining hoses in late fall, before the first frost, is crucial for their longevity.
- Professional Irrigation Blowout (Winterization): The most effective method for winterizing your underground sprinkler system is the “blowout” method. This involves using compressed air to force water out of the irrigation lines. Pioneer Underground Lawn Sprinklers offers professional irrigation blowout services. While some residual water may remain due to soil conditions and system age, professional winterization significantly minimizes the risk of freeze damage.
Ensure Your System is Winter-Ready
Following these winterization guidelines is vital for protecting both your lawn and your irrigation investment. By taking proactive steps to turn off and winterize your sprinkler system, you can prevent costly repairs, conserve water, and ensure a healthy lawn in the spring. Contact Pioneer Underground Lawn Sprinklers for expert assistance with professional winterization services and enjoy peace of mind throughout the winter season.
Have a Happy Holidays and a worry-free winter knowing your sprinkler system is protected!
