How to Prepare Outside Faucet for Winter
Winterizing your outdoor faucet is an essential task to prevent damage from freezing temperatures. Water left in outdoor faucets can freeze and expand, leading to cracked pipes and expensive repairs. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to prepare your outside faucet for winter.
1. Turn off the Water Supply
Before starting the winterization process, you need to turn off the water supply to the outdoor faucet. Locate the shut-off valve, which is typically located inside your home, near the foundation or in the basement. Turn the valve clockwise to close it. If you can’t find the valve or if it’s frozen, you may need to call a professional plumber.
2. Drain the Faucet and Pipe
Once the water supply is turned off, you need to drain the faucet and the pipe leading to it. Attach a garden hose to the outdoor faucet and turn it on to release any remaining water. Then, remove the faucet’s handle and unscrew the packing nut. This will allow you to remove the stem and drain the pipe. Once the pipe is empty, replace the stem, packing nut, and handle.
3. Insulate the Faucet
To prevent the faucet from freezing, you can wrap it with foam insulation. Purchase a foam faucet cover or a roll of foam insulation from a hardware store. Wrap the insulation around the faucet, ensuring that it covers the entire surface. Secure the insulation with a rubber band or tape.
4. Insulate the Pipe
If the pipe leading to the outdoor faucet is exposed, you should also insulate it. You can use foam pipe insulation or heat tape to protect the pipe from freezing temperatures. Cut the insulation or heat tape to the appropriate length and wrap it around the pipe. If using heat tape, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for installation and operation.
5. Disconnect and Store Hoses
Remove any garden hoses from the faucet and store them in a warm, dry place. This will prevent them from freezing and cracking. Also, consider using a hose bib cover to protect the faucet from the elements.
6. Check for Leaks
Before you finish, check for any leaks around the outdoor faucet. If you find any, repair them immediately to prevent water damage during the winter.
By following these steps, you can ensure that your outdoor faucet is well-prepared for the winter. Taking the time to winterize your faucet now will save you from costly repairs and the inconvenience of a frozen faucet in the middle of winter.
