What Is a Sprinkler Blowout?
A sprinkler blowout is the process of pushing compressed air through your irrigation system to force out every drop of water before winter. Water left in the pipes, valves, or heads will freeze, expand, and crack the system. In Northern Colorado, that's a near-certainty if you skip it.
When to Blow Out Your Sprinklers in Colorado
The first hard freeze in Northern Colorado usually lands between mid-October and early November. You want your blowout done before that first overnight freeze, but not so early that you lose fall watering time.
Rule of thumb: book late September through mid-October. Brad's calendar fills up fast, so the earlier you call, the more flexibility you have.
How a Professional Blowout Works
Here's the process Brad follows on every job:
- Shut off water at the main supply to the irrigation system
- Connect the commercial air compressor to the blow-out port
- Work zone by zone, running each until the heads mist and then stop
- Cycle back through zones to clear any residual water
- Drain backflow preventers and leave them in the correct position
- Cap and protect any exposed components
- Walk the system with you so you know what was done
Why Not DIY?
A home compressor (even a big pancake compressor) doesn't move enough air volume to properly clear the lines. You can get heads misting, but water stays in the low spots and damages the system. A commercial-grade CFM compressor is what makes the difference, and that's what Brad brings to every job.
Sprinkler Blowout Cost in Northern Colorado
Pricing depends on zone count and system complexity. Most residential systems fall in the $65 to $120 range. Brad gives you an exact quote over the phone in 60 seconds. No trip fees, no surprises.
Booking Your Blowout
Call or text 970-302-1291 with your zone count (it's on your controller) and zip code. Brad will lock in a time that works. Most residential blowouts take 20 to 45 minutes on-site.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you do it if I'm not home?
Yes, as long as we can access the controller and the main shutoff. Brad will leave a note on the door and text you confirmation with photos when he's done.
What if my system already froze?
Call Brad anyway. He can diagnose what's damaged, winterize what's left, and put you on the spring repair schedule.
Do you blow out drip systems too?
Yes. Drip lines, micro-spray systems, and anything else that holds water gets cleared.