Colorado’s four-season climate brings plenty of beauty — but also a few homeowner responsibilities. One of the most important fall tasks is winterizing your sprinkler system. Skipping this step can lead to frozen pipes, burst lines, and costly repairs come spring. Here’s what every Colorado homeowner needs to know about blowing out their sprinklers and the right time to do it.

Why Sprinkler Blowouts Matter

Our Colorado winters bring freezing temperatures that can quickly damage irrigation systems. Even a small amount of water left in your lines can freeze, expand, and crack:

1. Pipes – underground lines that are expensive to repair

2. Valves – critical for water control

3. Backflow preventers – one of the most vulnerable and costly parts to replace

A professional blowout uses compressed air to clear every last drop of water, ensuring your system stays intact through winter. Think of it as low-cost insurance against a much bigger repair bill.

When to Schedule in Colorado

Timing is everything. The first hard freeze along the Front Range usually arrives in late September to October. Higher elevations often see freezing temperatures earlier.

General guidelines:

1. Denver Metro (Aurora, Highlands Ranch, Boulder): Late September – Mid-October

2. Foothills & Mountain Communities (Evergreen, Conifer, Summit County): Early – Mid-September

3. Southern Colorado (Colorado Springs, Pueblo): Early – Mid-October

👉 Pro tip: Don’t wait for the freeze warning! By the time it’s on the forecast, contractors are already booked solid.

How the Process Works

1. Turn off the system’s water supply

2. Connect an air compressor to the blowout port

3. Clear each zone with compressed air until only mist comes out

4. Shut down and disconnect, leaving valves slightly open for winter

Most homeowners prefer hiring a professional. The cost usually runs $60–$120 in the Denver area, depending on yard size and number of zones — far less than repairing frozen lines.

Tips for Colorado Homeowners

1. Book early: Sprinkler companies fill up fast in September and October

2. Protect your backflow preventer: It’s one of the most expensive components to fix

3. Mark your calendar: Add it to your annual fall home checklist (along with gutter cleaning and furnace servicing)

Final Word

In Colorado, sprinkler blowouts aren’t optional — they’re essential. Schedule yours no later than mid-October in the Denver metro, and earlier in higher elevations. A quick appointment in the fall protects your system, your wallet, and your peace of mind.

👩‍💼 Need a Trusted Referral?

At Glass Properties Group, we keep a list of vetted local sprinkler professionals we trust for our clients and investment properties. Whether you’re winterizing your current home or preparing a rental property, we’re happy to connect you with reliable service providers.

📩 Contact us today for referrals — and stay ahead of Colorado’s next cold snap.