Shut Off Water Main and Open Faucets — Disconnect Hoses and Accessories
Part of project
How to Winterize an Outdoor Faucet to Prevent Burst Pipes · Step 1 of 5
In this video
The first and most critical step is to locate your home's main water shut-off valve and turn it off completely. This stops the flow of water into your home's plumbing system. Next, go to the faucets that are supplied by the frozen pipe and open them, but not wide open, just enough to allow a trickle. This action relieves the immense pressure that builds up between the faucet and the ice blockage, which is the primary cause of pipes bursting. This also allows melting water to escape as you begin the thawing process.
Goal: Relieve pressure in pipes
- This step is particularly important if you are going to be away from home while the pipes might be thawing.
Used in this video
- Water Meter Key (Tool Type: Plumbing Tools) · optional — Turning off the water main if it is located underground in a meter box.
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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.
Shut Off Water Main and Open Faucets — Disconnect Hoses and Accessories
Part of project
How to Winterize an Outdoor Faucet to Prevent Burst Pipes · Step 1 of 5
In this video
The first and most critical step is to locate your home's main water shut-off valve and turn it off completely. This stops the flow of water into your home's plumbing system. Next, go to the faucets that are supplied by the frozen pipe and open them, but not wide open, just enough to allow a trickle. This action relieves the immense pressure that builds up between the faucet and the ice blockage, which is the primary cause of pipes bursting. This also allows melting water to escape as you begin the thawing process.
Goal: Relieve pressure in pipes
- This step is particularly important if you are going to be away from home while the pipes might be thawing.
Used in this video
- Water Meter Key (Tool Type: Plumbing Tools) · optional — Turning off the water main if it is located underground in a meter box.
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.