How to Prevent Outdoor Spigots From Freezing

Outdoor spigots, also known as hose bibs or sillcocks, can be susceptible to freezing and bursting in cold weather climates. When water freezes and expands inside the pipes, it can exert enormous pressure and cause pipes to crack or split apart. A burst pipe leads to costly water damage, so preventing outdoor spigots from freezing is an important winterization task. With some simple preventative measures, you can help keep your outdoor spigots functional all winter long.

Why Do Outdoor Spigots Freeze So Easily?

Outdoor spigots are vulnerable to freezing for a few key reasons:

They Are Exposed to the Elements

Unlike indoor plumbing which is protected inside the warm environment of your home, outdoor spigots stick out of the exterior wall and are directly exposed to the cold outside temperatures. This makes them more prone to freezing.

They Lack Insulation

The pipes that supply water to outdoor spigots are not insulated like other water pipes in your home. This lack of insulation means they do not have a buffer against frigid winter temps.

Low Water Flow Increases Freezing Risk

Outdoor spigots usually have low water flow compared to indoor plumbing fixtures. The stagnant water is more likely to freeze than moving water.

TheyContain Residual Water

After use, some water remains in the pipe bib which can freeze as temperatures drop. This frozen block of ice makes subsequent water flow even slower, compounding the problem.

By understanding why outdoor spigots are vulnerable, you can take the right precautions.

How to Prevent Outdoor Faucet Freezing

Here are the top methods for keeping outdoor spigots functional all winter long:

1. Disconnect Hoses

The first step is to disconnect any hoses attached to outdoor spigots. The hose can contain pockets of water that may freeze and expand, cracking the bib. Removing all hoses eliminates this risk. Make sure to drain any residual water from the hose as well.

Coil up any hoses and store them in a dry place like a shed or garage until spring. Exposed hoses may suffer weather damage over the winter.

2. Insulate the Spigot

Insulating outdoor faucets is one of the best lines of defense against freezing. Specialized spigot insulation covers are available that wrap around the pipe bib and valve assembly. Look for a cover rated for subzero temperatures.

The insulation creates a barrier that prevents cold air from reaching the pipe. This helps slow down freezing. Make sure to get an insulation cover that fits snugly over the bib. Any gaps can allow cold air in.

Foam pipe insulation tubes can also be wrapped around the length of the exposed pipe leading to the spigot. This provides further protection.

3. Weatherproof with Caulk

Check around the backside of the pipe bib where it goes through the exterior wall. This is a potential weak spot for cold air intrusion.

Seal up any gaps around the pipe with waterproof caulking or insulation foam. This stops drafts and keeps the backside of the pipe warm.

You can also caulk around hose bib covers for an extra layer of weatherproofing. Just make sure not to seal up the drain hole at the bottom.

4. Turn Off Interior Shut-Off Valve

Most outdoor spigots have a shut-off valve inside your home that controls water flow. Locate this valve and turn it to the off position before freezing temps arrive.

This closes the supply line and allows any remaining water to drain out of the outdoor pipe. Shutting off the water eliminates the risk of burst pipes.

5. Open Spigot to Drain

After turning off the interior valve, open the outdoor spigot handle to allow any residual water in the pipe to drain out. Leave the spigot open for the winter season.

Make sure the spigot valve is left slightly open so water does not remain trapped. A dripping spigot indicates water is still draining, which is what you want.

6. Consider a Frost-Proof Spigot

If you live in an area with frequent subzero temperatures, consider replacing standard hose bibs with frost-proof models. These specialty spigots have a long neck that extends back into the warmer interior wall.

The valve assembly is located deep inside where it is protected against freezing. Water drains out after each use. Frost-proof spigots do not require winterization.

7. For Quick Freezing, Use Heat

If a pipe bursts or you notice leaking around a spigot, try applying a heat source like a hair dryer or hot water bottle directly to the affected area. This can thaw ice blockages quickly to restore flow. Never try to thaw pipes with an open flame.

For immediate freezing issues, heat is the fastest solution. But for prevention, rely on the other tips provided.

Steps for Winterizing Outdoor Spigots

Follow this simple checklist to properly winterize outdoor faucets:

Disconnect and drain any hoses. Put away for winter.
Acquire spigot insulation covers and pipe insulation.
Weatherproof around bib and pipe entry point with caulk.
Locate interior shut-off valve and turn to off position.
Open spigot handle to allow draining. Leave open.
Insulate spigot thoroughly with covers and pipe wrap.

Reversing the steps above prepares your outdoor spigots for spring:

Remove insulation covers and store.
Close spigot handles.
Slowly turn on interior shut-off valves.
Check for leaks.
Reconnect hoses.

Prevent Freeze Damage in Pipes

Freezing causes extensive damage if water lines burst. Here are some extra tips to help avoid pipe freezing:

Seal drafts in crawl spaces and basements where pipes are exposed.
Wrap water pipes in unheated areas with specialized heat tape.
Open interior cabinet doors to allow warm air to reach pipes on exterior walls.
Set a trickle of water from indoor faucets during extreme cold. This maintains flow.
Keep garage doors closed if there are water supply lines running through it.
Insulate walls and ceilings in areas with supply pipes.
Learn how to shut off the main water valve in case of emerging leaks.

Warning Signs of Frozen Pipes

Be alert for any of these signs that indicate pipes are in danger of freezing:

Spigot or pipe dripping stops, indicating blockage.
Reduced water flow from spigots and fixtures.
Ice or frost build-up on exposed pipes.
Unusually high water bill indicating a leak.
Cracks, bulges or splits in water lines.
North-facing exterior walls feel cold.

Catching freezing issues early allows you to take corrective action before major pipe rupturing occurs.

What to Do If Pipes Freeze

If you confirm water pipes are frozen, follow these important steps:

Shut off the main interior valve immediately so bursting is contained.
Open a faucet downstream of the freeze to relieve pressure.
Apply gentle heat such as a hair dryer or heating pad to thaw. Never use open flames.
As ice melts, check for cracks or splits that indicate broken pipes.
When water flow resumes, inspect for leaks.
Leave faucets dripping slightly to maintain flow.

Thawing frozen pipes is risky, so call a plumber for significant freeze damage or ruptures. Small thaws can sometimes be managed by a homeowner carefully.

How to Prevent Burst Pipes When Away

Vacationing or being away from home during winter brings added freeze risks. To prevent home damage from burst pipes while away:

Set thermostat no lower than 55°F. Keeping home partially heated helps.
Ask a house sitter to regularly check for freezing pipes.
Know how to remotely adjust your thermostat in case of cold snaps.
Shut off and drain water lines to exterior spigots, pools, sprinklers.
Insulate all exposed water pipes in unheated areas.
Setup a drip from interior faucets to maintain flow.
Ensure someone has access to quickly shut off main valve if needed.

Spending a little to winterize your home properly saves huge costs down the road.

Protect Pools, Hot Tubs and Irrigation Systems

Any exterior water lines need winterization as well. To avoid freeze damage:

For Pools

Drain all water from above-ground pools and equipment like pumps and filters. Disconnect hoses.
For in-ground pools, lower the water level below outlets. Drain pipes. Insert a pool plug.
Cover the pool surface to guard against leaf debris and prevent ice damage.

For Hot Tubs

Drain the hot tub fully and blow out the pipes with compressed air.
Shut off power to the hot tub at the breaker.
Cover and secure the tub cover tightly.

For Irrigation Systems

Have a professional perform a proper blowout using compressed air to drain lines.
Turn off automatic control systems.
Insulate any above-ground components like backflow valves.
Prepare sprinkler heads with freeze covers.

Avoid costly repairs to leisure water systems by taking a few preventative steps.

Hiring a Professional for Winterization

Some homeowners choose to have their outdoor plumbing winterized by a professional service company. Reasons you may want to hire help include:

You live in an extremely cold climate with frequent pipe freeze issues.
Your home has a complex irrigation system or outdoor pool.
You do not feel comfortable working on plumbing yourself.
You travel frequently in winter and need added peace of mind.

Look for a licensed plumber or irrigation specialist who offers winterization services. They have specialized tools and expertise. This includes:

High-powered compressed air systems to thoroughly blow out pipes. This removes any lingering water that may freeze.
Industrial-grade insulating materials and sealing methods to protect outdoor fixtures.
Knowledge to safely shut down pool equipment and hot tubs.
Ability to identify potential weak spots for cold air leakage.

Professional winterization provides an extra degree of protection against freeze damage, but comes at an added cost.

Common Spigot Freeze FAQs

Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about preventing outdoor spigots from freezing:

How Do Heat Tape and Heat Cables Work?

Heat tape (sometimes called heat cable) is a special cord wrapped around pipes. When plugged in, it warms pipes just enough to reduce freezing. The cords come in various lengths to accommodate different pipe sizes. Take care not to overlap the tape. While heat tape prevents freezing, it can cause burns if not used properly. Notably, it will not thaw a pipe that is already frozen.

What Temperature Should I Start Winterizing?

It’s best to winterize outdoor faucets and pipes before temperatures dip below freezing (32°F/0°C). When nights drop into the 20s, begin preparing. The key is being proactive rather than reactive. Waiting too long increases the chances of ice blockages. In southern climates, you may only need to winterize for short bursts of cold.

Can I Use Insulation Foam Instead of Caulk?

Foam insulation products can be effective alternatives to caulk for sealing gaps and joints. Look for a spray foam designed for exterior use. Apply a 1-inch layer of foam in gaps between the pipe and wall. One advantage of foam is it hardens and provides more long-term sealing versus caulk. However, foam can be messy and harder to remove later.

Why Does Insulation Help Prevent Freezing?

Insulation works by slowing the transfer of heat away from the pipes. The materials act as a barrier that keeps radiant warmth close to the pipe surface. The insulation cover around the hose bib prevents the cold air from rapidly cooling the metal. This reduces the chances of the water inside freezing solid. Effective insulation helps maintain the temperature above 32°F.

How Do I Pick the Right Spigot Insulation?

Look for insulation covers made specifically to fit hose bibs and wall hydrants. Pick a size that fits snugly over your spigot to prevent gaps. The insulation should be waterproof and provide ample thickness around the pipe. Anything rated for temperatures at least below 20°F will suffice for most regions. Make sure it has a drawstring or fasteners to secure it tightly.

What Is an Expansion Tank and How Does It Help?

An expansion tank is designed to control pressure fluctuations in a water supply system as water expands and contracts with temperature changes. Having an expansion tank helps alleviate pressure spikes that can lead to burst pipes. Talk to your plumber about possibly installing one if you live in a climate with frequent freezing.

Key Takeaways on Preventing Outdoor Spigot Freezing

Protecting outdoor faucets from winter freeze is an important seasonal chore for homeowners. Here are the key tips to remember:

Insulate hose bibs with quality spigot covers and pipe wrap.
Disconnect garden hoses and store for winter.
Seal up any drafts and gaps around pipes.
Shut off interior water valves and open spigots to drain residual water before freezing hits.
Consider installing frost-proof spigots that extend into warmer interior walls.
Learn how to properly winterize pools, irrigation systems and hot tubs too.
Watch for signs of frozen pipes like reduced water flow.
Act promptly if pipes freeze to prevent rupture damage.

A bit of pre-winter preparation goes a long way to preventing headaches from burst pipes, big water bills, and costly plumbing repairs. Protect your outdoor spigots and keep water flowing all season long with these handy tips.