How to winterize outdoor faucets
To winterize an outdoor faucet (hose bib), disconnect and drain the hose, close the shutoff valve for that faucet inside the house, then open the outdoor faucet so the rest of the pipe drains, and leave it open all winter. Add an insulated cover if you have one.
How to winterize outdoor faucets
Checklist
- Disconnect hoses, drain them, and store them insideBefore the first freeze
- Close each outdoor faucet's indoor shutoff valveBefore the first freeze
- Open the outdoor faucet to drain; leave it openSame day
- Put an insulated cover on each faucetSame day
- Reopen the indoor valvesSpring, after the last freeze
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Why the hose matters
Water left in a connected hose can freeze and push back into the faucet and the pipe behind it. That is true even for frost-free faucets, which are designed to drain only when nothing is attached.
No indoor shutoff valve?
Some older homes have none. Use an insulated faucet cover, know where your main water shutoff is, and consider having a plumber add a valve or a frost-free faucet.
What you'll need
- Insulated outdoor faucet coversFits over the hose bib after it's drained
- Frost-free hose bib (if you're replacing one)Puts the shutoff inside the heated wall
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Questions
Do frost-free faucets need to be winterized?
You still need to disconnect the hose. With a hose attached, water cannot drain out of the faucet and it can freeze and split.
Should I leave the outdoor faucet open or closed in winter?
After closing the indoor shutoff valve, leave the outdoor faucet open so any remaining water can drain and expand without bursting the pipe.
Sources
Related guides
General guidance for typical homes. Follow your equipment manufacturer's instructions and local codes, and hire a pro for anything you're not comfortable doing.