Shut Off Water Supply — Drain the Outdoor Faucet
Part of project
How to Winterize an Outdoor Faucet to Prevent Burst Pipes · Step 3 of 5
In this video
Before starting any work, locate the main water shut-off valve for the faucet and turn it clockwise until it is fully closed. Then, open the faucet to drain any residual water from the pipes.
Goal: Prevent water from flowing to the faucet during the repair.
Used in this video
- Shut-off Valve — Stopping the water supply to the faucet.
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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 Supply — Drain the Outdoor Faucet
Part of project
How to Winterize an Outdoor Faucet to Prevent Burst Pipes · Step 3 of 5
In this video
Before starting any work, locate the main water shut-off valve for the faucet and turn it clockwise until it is fully closed. Then, open the faucet to drain any residual water from the pipes.
Goal: Prevent water from flowing to the faucet during the repair.
Used in this video
- Shut-off Valve — Stopping the water supply to the faucet.
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.