Shut Off Water and Prepare for Removal — Drain the Interior Pipe
Part of project
How to Winterize an Outdoor Faucet to Prevent Burst Pipes · Step 4 of 5
In this video
Before starting any work, locate the hot and cold water shut-off valves under the sink and turn them clockwise until they are fully closed. Place a bucket directly underneath the P-trap to catch any water that will drain out. Unscrew the slip nuts on the P-trap by hand and disconnect it, allowing the water from the trap and drain to empty into the bucket.
Goal: Prepare for faucet removal
- If the shut-off valves are stuck, do not force them. You may need to shut off the main water supply to the house.
Used in this video
- Bucket — Catching water from the P-trap and supply lines.
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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 and Prepare for Removal — Drain the Interior Pipe
Part of project
How to Winterize an Outdoor Faucet to Prevent Burst Pipes · Step 4 of 5
In this video
Before starting any work, locate the hot and cold water shut-off valves under the sink and turn them clockwise until they are fully closed. Place a bucket directly underneath the P-trap to catch any water that will drain out. Unscrew the slip nuts on the P-trap by hand and disconnect it, allowing the water from the trap and drain to empty into the bucket.
Goal: Prepare for faucet removal
- If the shut-off valves are stuck, do not force them. You may need to shut off the main water supply to the house.
Used in this video
- Bucket — Catching water from the P-trap and supply lines.
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.