Prepare the Backflow Preventer — Disconnect Hoses and Accessories
Part of project
How to Winterize an Outdoor Faucet to Prevent Burst Pipes · Step 1 of 5
In this video
Go to the outdoor backflow preventer. Visually inspect it for any cracks or damage that may have occurred over the winter. Using pliers, ensure the bottom drain plug is tightly closed. Then, use a screwdriver to close the two small test cock valves by turning the slots perpendicular to the valve body. Finally, close the two large ball valves that were left open for winterization.
Goal: Close all exterior drains and valves
- Ensure all valves are fully closed before turning on the water to prevent leaks.
Used in this video
- Pliers (Tool Type: Pliers) — Tightening the drain plug on the backflow preventer.
- Screwdriver (Tool Type: Screwdrivers) — Closing the test cock valves on the backflow preventer.
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FAQs
How much time should I set aside for winterizing my outdoor faucet, especially as a beginner?
This is a quick and beginner-friendly project, typically taking only 15-30 minutes per faucet. The majority of the time is spent locating and operating the interior shut-off valve and ensuring complete drainage. It's a small investment of time that saves you from potentially costly pipe repairs.
What's the biggest mistake people make, and what are the consequences if I don't winterize correctly?
The most critical mistake is not completely draining all water from the pipe between the indoor shut-off valve and the outdoor faucet. Any residual water can freeze, expand, and burst the pipe, leading to significant water damage inside your home once temperatures rise. Ensure the pipe is completely empty before closing the outdoor faucet.
What if I can't find an interior shut-off valve for my outdoor faucet, or my home is older?
If you don't have an individual interior shut-off valve for the faucet, you'll need to turn off your home's main water supply, open the outdoor faucet to drain it, and then turn the main supply back on. Consider consulting a plumber to install a dedicated shut-off valve for easier future winterization, as this is a common upgrade.
What's the typical cost involved in winterizing an outdoor faucet?
The primary cost is usually for an insulated faucet cover, which typically ranges from $5-$20, like the Everbilt Hard Outdoor Faucet Cover 1981 listed. If you need to purchase a bucket, you might spend an additional $5-$10. Overall, it's a very inexpensive preventative measure compared to the cost of burst pipe repairs.
Prepare the Backflow Preventer — Disconnect Hoses and Accessories
Part of project
How to Winterize an Outdoor Faucet to Prevent Burst Pipes · Step 1 of 5
In this video
Go to the outdoor backflow preventer. Visually inspect it for any cracks or damage that may have occurred over the winter. Using pliers, ensure the bottom drain plug is tightly closed. Then, use a screwdriver to close the two small test cock valves by turning the slots perpendicular to the valve body. Finally, close the two large ball valves that were left open for winterization.
Goal: Close all exterior drains and valves
- Ensure all valves are fully closed before turning on the water to prevent leaks.
Used in this video
- Pliers (Tool Type: Pliers) — Tightening the drain plug on the backflow preventer.
- Screwdriver (Tool Type: Screwdrivers) — Closing the test cock valves on the backflow preventer.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much time should I set aside for winterizing my outdoor faucet, especially as a beginner?
This is a quick and beginner-friendly project, typically taking only 15-30 minutes per faucet. The majority of the time is spent locating and operating the interior shut-off valve and ensuring complete drainage. It's a small investment of time that saves you from potentially costly pipe repairs.
What's the biggest mistake people make, and what are the consequences if I don't winterize correctly?
The most critical mistake is not completely draining all water from the pipe between the indoor shut-off valve and the outdoor faucet. Any residual water can freeze, expand, and burst the pipe, leading to significant water damage inside your home once temperatures rise. Ensure the pipe is completely empty before closing the outdoor faucet.
What if I can't find an interior shut-off valve for my outdoor faucet, or my home is older?
If you don't have an individual interior shut-off valve for the faucet, you'll need to turn off your home's main water supply, open the outdoor faucet to drain it, and then turn the main supply back on. Consider consulting a plumber to install a dedicated shut-off valve for easier future winterization, as this is a common upgrade.
What's the typical cost involved in winterizing an outdoor faucet?
The primary cost is usually for an insulated faucet cover, which typically ranges from $5-$20, like the Everbilt Hard Outdoor Faucet Cover 1981 listed. If you need to purchase a bucket, you might spend an additional $5-$10. Overall, it's a very inexpensive preventative measure compared to the cost of burst pipe repairs.