After a long irrigation season, it’s tempting to shut the system down and walk away—but skipping postseason maintenance can cost you dearly next year. From frozen water lines to wind-damaged towers, avoidable damage in the offseason often leads to the most expensive repairs.

In this post, we’ll explore the critical steps every grower should take before winter hits to ensure their system is protected—and ready to roll when spring returns.

Why It Matters

Irrigation systems face some of their toughest conditions during the winter months. Cold temps, wind, livestock, and leftover water in the system all pose serious threats. Taking the time to winterize your pivot properly not only extends the life of your system, it saves time, money, and frustration come spring.

5 Smart Moves to Winterize Your Pivot

1. Drain All the Water

Completely drain your water supply line and underground pipes. Open the bottom elbow at the pivot center. Check automatic low-pressure drains under each tower and any special locations like the swing arm hinge. On Reinke systems, press upward on the special rubber drain plugs. Don’t forget the sand trap on the last tower—empty it and reinstall once dry.

2. Inspect & Prep the Drivetrain

Drain condensation from each gearbox and refill lubricant to proper levels. Inspect tire condition and set tire pressure based on the owner’s manual. Don’t leave this for spring—cold temps can magnify issues.

3. Park It Right

Position the pivot parallel to prevailing winds. Close up wheel tracks and park on firm, level ground. Avoid deep ruts that could anchor towers or create stress points when the metal contracts in the cold.

4. Protect Against Livestock

If animals graze your field during the offseason, protect exposed components like the pivot center, electrical panels, and drivetrain from rubbing or impact.

5. Waterproof the Electrical

Lift cords and plugs off the ground and cover them with waterproof protectors. Moisture exposure can quietly corrode components and cause startup issues next year.

“Proper postseason service and winterization is critical to the longevity of your irrigation systems.”
– Todd Merryman, Reinke Manufacturing, Past Manager of Technical Services

Bonus: Review System Performance

Now’s the perfect time to evaluate how your system performed. Compare yield maps from irrigated vs. non-irrigated acres. Did your system hit the mark? Are upgrades needed? Offseason is the right time to plan for improvements—while you still have time to order parts, line up financing, or even replace a full system if needed.

Don’t Wait for Spring to Discover a Problem

A little time spent now means a lot less time stressing later. Consult your owner’s manual for your system’s winterization specifics. And if in doubt, your local Reinke dealer is ready to help—year-round.

“The importance for farmers to consult their owner’s manual for winterization instructions and procedures specific to the system you have in service cannot be emphasized enough.”
– Todd Merryman, Reinke Manufacturing, Past Manager of Technical Services

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