How to winterize a Hunter smart irrigation system

Automatic watering may start from a Hunter controller schedule or from connected smart-home routines. Before winter, check both: remove upcoming starts from the seasonal schedule and temporarily disable automations that run zones based on time, weather, or sensor readings.

This prevents new cycles, but it does not prepare the hydraulic system for freezing temperatures. Water left in pipes, valves, filters, or the backflow assembly can damage equipment. The controller manages commands; it does not replace winter drainage.

Settings depend on the specific model and where it is installed. Hunter’s guidance for outdoor-mounted controllers recommends leaving power on and setting the dial or switch to Off. Indoor-mounted controllers have separate options. Follow the manual for your controller rather than copying a setting from another model.

For a rain sensor, Hunter recommends removing water from a cup or bowl that collects rain and preventing water from accumulating there; removable wafers or discs on some sensors can be stored indoors. After disabling automations, make a note of which ones need to be restored in spring.

Hunter describes manual, automatic, and compressed-air blowout as different winterization methods. Which method applies depends on the location of drains, valves, sprinklers, and the backflow assembly. Simply shutting off the water or opening one drain may not remove water from every section.

Blowing out pipes with compressed air can cause serious injury or equipment damage. Hunter recommends having a qualified contractor perform this method; pressure must also stay within the limit of the weakest component. Do not connect a compressor without understanding the system or blow air through a pump or backflow assembly.

Before restarting, inspect visible connections, valves, and sprinkler heads, then check each zone separately. Confirm drains and service valves are back in their operating positions, the rain sensor is installed, and the controller has no unintended start times.

Only after inspection, re-enable the Hunter schedule and the automations needed for the new season. Run a test cycle and adjust watering times for the garden and plants. This sequence helps catch a leak or unexpected command before the full schedule resumes.