Winterizing Outdoor Faucets: A Comprehensive Guide
Importance of Winterizing Outdoor Faucets
In cold climates, it’s crucial to winterize outdoor faucets to prevent costly damage from freezing temperatures. Burst water pipes can cause significant water damage to walls, ceilings, and floors. Fortunately, winterizing outdoor faucets is a relatively simple task that can be completed in just a few minutes.
Materials and Tools for Winterizing Outdoor Faucets
Equipment:
- Bucket
- Wrench
Materials:
- Insulated outdoor faucet covers (one for each outdoor spigot)
- Faucet repair materials (as needed)
Step-by-Step Instructions for Winterizing Outdoor Faucets
1. Disconnect Hoses and Fittings
Regardless of the type of outdoor spigots you have, it’s essential to remove any hoses, splitters, or other fittings before winter sets in. Trapped water in these attachments can freeze and damage the faucets. It’s advisable to disconnect hoses early, even before the first freezing night.
2. Inspect Spigots for Leaks
Check all spigots, yard hydrants, and other fixtures for leaks or drips. Repair or replace any leaky components before temperatures drop below freezing. Dripping water indicates a faulty washer or cartridge that could freeze and block the water flow.
3. Drain Spigots and Pipes
For non-freeze-proof outdoor faucets, shut off the water supply and drain the water into a bucket. Open the spigot and leave it open until the water drains out. If there’s no indoor shut-off valve, it’s crucial to insulate the spigot thoroughly.
For frost-free spigots, this step is not necessary as they are designed to keep water away from the end of the spigot. However, it’s still advisable to remove hoses and other attachments to ensure proper drainage.
4. Install Outdoor Faucet Covers
The final step is to protect outdoor faucets with insulated covers. These covers prevent heat from escaping and keep water in the faucet from freezing. Square or dome-shaped shells made of thermal foam with gaskets are common types of faucet covers. Ensure a tight seal around the base of the faucet for maximum protection.
How Frost-Proof Wall Hydrants or Hose Bibs Work
Frost-proof wall hydrants or hose bibs are designed to shut off water inside the foundation wall. They come in varying lengths to accommodate the width of the foundation wall. When turned off, the water drains out, eliminating the need for additional insulation. However, it’s important to disconnect hoses before winter to prevent freezing in the hose itself.
How Outdoor Faucet Covers Work
Outdoor faucet covers trap heat that naturally radiates through interior pipes to the outdoor spigot. The insulated cover prevents this heat from escaping, protecting the water in the faucet from freezing and expanding. Faucet covers come in different styles and materials, but all aim to provide a tight seal for maximum insulation.
Additional Tips for Winterizing Outdoor Faucets
- Consider installing freeze-proof spigots for long-term protection.
- Check outdoor faucets regularly during winter for any signs of freezing or leaks.
- If you notice a frozen outdoor faucet, do not attempt to thaw it with a blowtorch or other heat source. Instead, contact a plumber for assistance.
- If your home is located in an extremely cold climate, you may need to insulate both the outdoor faucet and the pipes leading to it.