How to Stop Outdoor Faucets From Freezing This Winter

Why Outdoor Faucets Freeze and the Risks Involved 

Even if you’re not running water through your outdoor faucet, it can still hold water from the last time it was used. When the temperature drops, the water inside the faucet can freeze. Once frozen, it will expand and can cause the pipe to crack or burst. Outdoor fixtures are more susceptible to freezing because they usually don’t have insulation to help protect them. If you live in a warmer climate, you’re not exactly in the clear — in fact, because homes in warmer climates aren’t built for the cold, your pipes are likely not insulated well, so they are actually more vulnerable.

Frozen faucets pose the following risks: 

• Cracked pipes
• Burst pipes
• Water damage
• Increased water bills
• Mold and mildew growth
• Structural concerns

In some cases, you might not immediately realize you have a frozen pipe issue. For example, a small crack could cause a leak that ends up wasting a significant amount of water over time, raising your bill and creating excess moisture, which could increase the risk of water damage and mold. Leaky pipes aren’t always obvious, especially if they’re connecting to outdoor spaces that aren’t in use. 

Furthermore, you should consider the costs and hassle associated with damaged pipes. They will require repair and replacement, which can require your water to be disconnected and disrupt your day-to-day activities.

Simple Steps to Prevent Outdoor Faucet Freezing 

The pipes in your home get to piggyback off the protection and insulation your home provides, but your outdoor pipes aren’t so lucky! That’s why it’s crucial to take care of your outdoor faucets and pipes when the winter months arrive. Luckily, taking some simple steps can help prevent outdoor faucet freezing issues when winter rolls around. 

Disconnect and Drain Hoses 

To help protect outdoor faucets in the winter, remove any hoses, sprayers, or other attachments before freezing temperatures arrive. Prepare your hoses for storage by making sure all the water is out of them before wrapping them up and putting them away for the winter. These items can trap water inside the faucet, increasing the risk of freezing and potentially causing the pipes to crack or burst.

Once the faucet is clear, turn off the water supply to your outdoor faucet if your home has an indoor shutoff valve. If you live in an extremely cold climate, you may have an internal shutoff valve inside your home. This valve allows you to adequately drain the water from the sillcock. Shut off the internal valve and drain the water from both the drain cap inside and the faucet outside. This step ensures there’s no water left to freeze inside the faucet or connected pipes, providing a simple but effective safeguard against cold weather damage.

Install Faucet Covers and Insulation 

Winter faucet covers are an affordable and effective solution for protecting outdoor faucets during freezing temperatures. Typically made from foam or insulated material, these covers fit snugly over the faucet, trapping heat and preventing the water inside from freezing. They’re simple to install and provide an added layer of protection against frost, especially in areas with consistently cold winters. Additionally, faucet covers help keep dirt, debris, and pests from entering your water system, offering year-round benefits. Do not wrap your pipes with bath towels or newspapers! These coverings hold moisture like a wet rag and defeat the purpose of covering your pipes in the first place.

For further protection, consider insulating the pipes leading to your outdoor faucets. Exposed pipes are especially vulnerable to freezing, so adding insulation can significantly reduce the risk of damage. Options include foam pipe sleeves, self-sealing wraps, or insulation kits designed specifically for outdoor plumbing. Take time to explore the different types of pipe insulation to determine what works best for your home and climate. Combining faucet covers with insulated pipes ensures comprehensive protection against winter weather and helps maintain the integrity of your plumbing system.

How to Repair Frozen Faucets and Pipes

If you suspect that your home has damage from frozen faucets and pipes, reach out to a professional. The process of conducting the necessary repairs entails the following steps: 

1. Locate and inspect the problem site.
2. Turn off the water supply for the affected area to stop the water flow and reduce pressure.
3. If the pipe has already burst, keep the water off and rely on professional help.
4. Use an appropriate heat source (no open flames) to thaw the frozen area from the open end, working back to allow the water to melt, flow out, and relieve pressure.
5. If there are cracks or damage, complete repairs before turning the water back on.
6. Consider preventative measures like faucet caps or pipe insulation.

Luckily, you don’t have to navigate this process alone. Connect with trusted Neighborly providers for quality handyman services that will help keep your home in optimal shape all year round. All our work is backed by the Neighborly Done Right Promise™, which ensures your satisfaction is a priority.

Contact us today for any home repair services you may need, and check out our FAQs for answers to any other questions you have.  

This article is intended for general informational purposes only and may not be applicable to every situation. You are responsible for determining the proper course of action for your home and property. Neighborly is not responsible for any damages that occur as a result of this blog content or your actions. For the most accurate guidance, contact the applicable local Neighborly home service provider for a comprehensive, on-site assessment.