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When winter rolls around in Western Australia, it is time to give your retic system a well-deserved break. Shutting down your irrigation system properly helps prevent damage, saves water, and ensures everything runs smoothly when spring returns. Follow this simple checklist to winterise your retic system like a pro.
1. Turn Off Your Controller
Start by switching your retic controller to the off position. If you have a manual controller, set it to off. For digital controllers, select the rain or off mode. This stops the watering schedule from running during the cooler months when your garden needs less moisture.
2. Isolate the Water Supply
Find the master isolation valve and turn it off. This prevents any water from leaking into the pipes or solenoids while your system is off. If you are not sure where your isolation valve is, now is a good time to locate it.
3. Check for Leaks or Damage
Take a walk around your garden and inspect your sprinklers, pipes and fittings. Look for signs of leaks, broken parts, or blocked nozzles. Fixing these issues now will save time and money later.
4. Clean Your Filters
Remove and rinse any filters or screens in your system. Dirt and debris can build up over time and cause blockages. A clean filter ensures better water flow when the system restarts.
5. Flush the System
If your system allows, do a quick flush of the lines before you turn everything off. This removes any leftover dirt or debris and helps avoid clogging during downtime.
6. Store Any Portable Components
If your garden uses portable timers or above ground fittings, store them in a dry place to prevent weather damage.
7. Book a Professional Check if Needed
If you notice ongoing issues or are unsure how to shut everything down, consider booking a professional retic service. A quick inspection now can prevent costly repairs later.
Taking these steps will help you protect your system and ensure it is ready to go when spring arrives. A little maintenance now goes a long way in keeping your garden healthy and your retic system running at its best.
Call an Expert
Need help with your winter shutdown or looking to upgrade your reticulation system? Talk to the team at WA Reticulation Supplies. We can help you choose the right parts, offer expert advice, and make sure your system is ready for every season. Call us on 08 9399 9399 (Armadale), 08 9274 5500 (Midland) or 08 9529 1000 (Rockingham).
Frequently Answered Questions
1. Do I need to turn off my retic system in winter in Perth?
If you are in the Perth area, the Winter Sprinkler Switch-off runs from 1 June to 31 August every year and applies to both households and businesses. During this period you must switch your sprinklers off and let the winter rainfall take care of your garden. Check the Water Corporation website to check your address https://www.watercorporation.com.au/waterwise/watering-days/winter-sprinkler-switch-off
2. How do I turn off my reticulation controller for winter?
If you have a manual controller, set it to the off position. For digital controllers, select the rain or off mode. This stops your watering schedule from running until you are ready to restart in spring.
3. What should I check before shutting my retic system down for winter?
Walk around your garden and inspect your sprinklers, pipes and fittings. Look for leaks, broken parts and blocked nozzles. Clean your filters and flush the lines if possible. Fixing small issues now avoids bigger problems when you restart in spring.
4. Should I store my portable retic components over winter?
Yes. Any portable timers or above ground fittings should be stored in a dry place over winter. Leaving them exposed to the weather can cause damage and shorten their lifespan.
5. When should I call a professional to help with my winter retic shutdown?
If you notice ongoing leaks, are unsure how to isolate your water supply or have not had your system serviced in a while, it is worth calling in a professional. The team at WA Reticulation Supplies can help with advice or point you in the right direction.