Winter Maintenance Tips for Optimal Pivot Performance

Winter is the ideal time for growers to perform preventative maintenance on their irrigation equipment. Not only does it improve performance during the growing season, but it can also reduce costly breakdowns, increase yield, and extend the lifespan of your pivots.

The Long-Term Benefits of Preventative Maintenance

Greg Johnson from the Zimmatic support team shares insights on the significance of off-season maintenance and best practices to keep your equipment running efficiently.

“Proper maintenance with any equipment extends its useful life,” says Johnson. “Dedicated maintenance leads to less downtime, helps prevent unnecessary shutdowns, and saves time and money. It can also lead to more efficient irrigation.”

Preventative maintenance is an investment in both the short- and long-term success of your operation and ensures your equipment stays reliable and efficient when it matters most.

Key Maintenance Tasks for the Off-Season

The off-season provides growers with the time and opportunity to thoroughly prepare their pivots for the next season. Focus on these key inspection points to ensure reliable performance:

• Lubrication: Check all gearboxes for proper lubrication. Lubricate the center pivot point and other components shown in the operation manual.
• Electrical components: Inspect control panels for debris and test circuit connections.
• Drive train and tires: Verify tire pressure and inspect the driveline for wear.
• Sprinkler package efficiency: Ensure nozzles are clean and delivering water uniformly.
• Winterization: Drain water from the system to prevent freezing damage.

For a detailed checklist, explore our Annual Maintenance Schedule.

Advancing with Technology

As irrigation technology evolves, maintenance practices must evolve, too. Johnson highlights the growing importance of proper grounding and fusing, particularly as solid-state electronics—such as advanced control panels that improve irrigation accuracy—become more common

“Depending on the existing installation, this may mean adding additional ground rods or renewing grounding connections,” he advises. Staying ahead of these advancements will help growers protect their investments and maximize equipment performance.

Tailored Support from Your Zimmatic Dealer

Every grower’s irrigation needs are unique, influenced by local conditions and practices. Zimmatic dealers are invaluable resources for optimizing maintenance routines.

“Local dealers understand the equipment and are aware of potential issues specific to certain environments or practices,” says Johnson.

Their expertise ensures thorough inspections, tailored recommendations, and a maintenance plan aligned with your operation’s challenges and goals.

Put the Best Parts to Work

High-quality replacement parts are essential for keeping your pivots running smoothly. Genuine Lindsay Parts exceed industry standards, offering unmatched durability and compatibility.

Whether you’re replacing worn components, upgrading your pivots, or stocking up for the next season, Genuine Lindsay Parts ensure reliable performance across your farm. Plus, your Zimmatic dealer can service any pivot brand using Lindsay parts.

>>Take advantage of our exclusive re-pipe promotion! Through February 28, save $500 on pivot re-piping with Genuine Lindsay Parts. Visit Lindsay.com/GenuineParts for details.

Final Thoughts

Winter maintenance is more than a checklist—it’s a strategy to ensure your pivots deliver reliable, efficient irrigation when you need it most. Partner with your local Zimmatic dealer to create a tailored maintenance plan and ensure your pivots are ready for a successful 2025 season—and for years to come.