Winterization
We can help with the sprinkler winterization process.
Here in North Carolina, cold winter temperatures can lead to unwanted damage to your sprinkler system and drip system. Sprinkler winterization is the process of preparing your system for the harsh winter season and colder temperatures. The purpose of sprinkler winterization is to protect your sprinkler system from damage caused by freezing temperatures. When temperatures drop below freezing, any water left inside your irrigation system can expand, leading to cracked pipes, valves, fittings, and other components. Avoid having costly repairs pop up in the spring when opening your system by having your system prepared properly.
Protect irrigation from freeze damage with professional winterization
Remove water to prevent cracked pipes and valves
Avoid costly spring repairs with proper system prep
Local Experience. Long-Lasting Results.
25+
Years in Business
With 25+ years in business, Carolina Irrigation & Lighting brings proven experience to every project. From irrigation and outdoor lighting to drainage solutions, we design and install systems tailored to your property, your goals, and the way you live outdoors.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time of day to water?
Devin Bergin2026-01-15T16:17:12-05:00Early morning is best. Watering during evening times or overnight will make the lawn more susceptible to fungus.
What can I do to protect my controller from lightning damage?
Devin Bergin2026-01-15T16:16:45-05:00The best way is to ensure that the controller is grounded properly. Unfortunately, like all electrical devices, controllers are susceptible to lightning strikes and little can be done to prevent damage.
What do I do if my system is running when it isn’t supposed to?
Devin Bergin2026-01-15T16:17:20-05:00First, check to see if the current date & time is correct. Second, check to see if there is more than one start time on any of your running programs.
How do I turn the water off to my system in case of an emergency?
Devin Bergin2026-01-15T16:15:53-05:00Find your backflow assembly. Above ground assemblies will be in a large, green/tan, rectangular box, more than likely located near your home or water meter. Below ground assemblies will have a large, green, rectangular lid. Once found, turn either handle on assembly to the right to turn water off. green, rectangular lid. Once found, turn either handle on assembly to the right to turn water off. Contact your local water department if you are unable to turn off water.
How often should I run my system?
Devin Bergin2026-01-15T16:16:55-05:00Individual circumstances will vary, however, the Co-op Extension recommends watering more deeply, less often. A general rule is 2 - 3 times per week instead of every day.
I want to run my system three times per week. How long should each zone run?
Chris Patti2026-01-15T16:15:25-05:00Individual circumstances will vary, but as a general rule, depending on the season, spray heads should run between 5 - 15 minutes, rotors should run 15 - 30 minutes, and drip lines should run 30 minutes to 1 hour.
I think I have an irrigation leak. How do I know for sure?
Devin Bergin2026-01-15T16:16:38-05:00Make sure your controller is in the "off" position, remove the cover from the irrigation meter, either record or take a picture of the position of the meter then return to check it again a few hours later to see if it has moved. If the meter has moved, you have a leak somewhere in your system.
What do I do if I have a station that will not shut off?
Devin Bergin2026-01-15T16:16:50-05:00Turn controller to "off" position. If station shuts off, it is a programming issue. If it continues to run, unplug controller. If the station shuts off, it is a controller issue. If it still continues to run, it is a valve issue and you must turn water off at the backflow preventer.
What is the purpose of the Backflow Assembly and why must it be tested annually?
Devin Bergin2026-01-15T16:17:27-05:00The backflow assembly prevents contaminated irrigation water from being siphoned back into the clean drinking water supply. The Clean Water Act passed by Congress requires local governments to reasonably ensure that the drinking water supplied to their residents remain safe & clean. The annual backflow test is one step that helps the local governments ensure that the drinking water supply is safe & clean.
How do I know if my rain sensor is working?
Devin Bergin2026-01-15T16:15:45-05:00Make sure sensor switch on controller is in active position. Start a manual cycle on your system, push down on center tab on top of sensor. If system shuts off, the sensor is working.
What do I do if my controller shows no display?
Devin Bergin2026-01-15T16:17:01-05:00Check to see if you have power going to the controller. If not, check circuit breakers & GFI outlets in your home to see if they have been tripped. If you have power, but no display, unplug controller for 2 minutes then plug back in. If still no display, see if there is a reset button on your controller - hold for 10 seconds. Still no display? Controller may have gone bad.
What do I do if the water leak is between the water meter and backflow assembly?
Devin Bergin2026-01-15T16:17:06-05:00In this situation, the only solution is to turn the water off at the irrigation meter.