How to Prevent Outdoor Spigots From Freezing
The concern of freezing outdoor faucets every winter is something most homeowners can relate to. But that doesn't have to be such a perennial problem.
If you have a standard faucet, there are simple winterizing steps that make freezing problems unlikely. You can also go one step further and replace a standard faucet with a freeze-proof one.
What is an ice-proof faucet?
A freeze-proof faucet (also called "freeze-proof" or "freeze-free") provides better protection against freezing and eliminates the need to winterize the faucet in addition to removing the hose.
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Read on about two ways to keep your outdoor faucets from freezing in the winter.
How to prepare a standard tap for the winter
Remove the hose
If there is still a garden hose connected to the external tap, remove it from the tap, drain the residual water from the hose, roll it up, and store it in a dry place.
Close the tap
Locate the control valve in the water supply line leading to the external faucet. If you have metal water pipes, it is usually a brass ball valve located several feet from the exterior wall. Turn the control valve handle clockwise until it stops. If the valve has a lever handle, turn the lever so that it is perpendicular to the pipe.
Tip
As you can see, to prevent a standard (not ice-proof) faucet from freezing, a shut-off valve is required on the feed tube leading to the faucet. If your faucet doesn't have this type of shut-off valve, it's best to install one to simplify your annual winterization tasks.
Drain the faucet
Fully open the external tap and let the residual water drain out of the tube. If the water runs out and never completely stops, the internal shutoff valve is faulty and needs to be replaced. Close the tap valve.
Hold a bucket under the shutoff valve and remove the bleed cap from the valve, if equipped with one. You may need pliers to loosen the cap. Allow all residual water from the line to drain into the bucket. Reinstall bleed cap and tighten securely.
Install an insulated faucet cap
Add an insulated faucet sock or cap to the faucet, if desired. While these covers do not generate heat on their own, they retain a small amount of heat that radiates into the home, and this is usually enough to keep your faucet from freezing and bursting, especially if you've also followed the recommended steps to drain your pipes.
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Source: TheNewReview
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Last update on 2024-12-06 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
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