Winter is around the corner and the temperatures are dropping with each and every day. Before the freezing temperatures arrive, make sure you complete all of your fall maintenance. One that should be done immediately: winterizing the outdoor faucets.
How Do You Keep Outdoor Faucets from Freezing in Cold Weather?
Not only can ice within the pipes cause damage, but pressure below the ice can build up. Eventually, the buildup of pressure becomes too much for the pipe to handle and it will burst. Since these faucets aren’t used throughout the winter, you won’t notice a burst pipe until the spring when you turn the water back on.
Step 1: Remove Accessories
Before you can winterize your faucets you will need to remove any hoses and other attachments. Drain them of any residual water and store them in the garage or shed. Make sure there is no water left within hoses or else the water will freeze, ruining their basic functionality.
Step 2: Water Shut Down
If your home has an internal shut-off valve for exterior faucets, shut off the valve. Next, you’ll want to open the drain cap and allow all of the water inside to drain out into a bucket. Once all of the water has been removed, head outside and open the faucet to let it drip away any residual water. Afterward, close the faucet and head back inside to close the drain cap. Not every home has an internal shut-off valve, so if you don’t, check each faucet to make sure they’re not dripping any water.
Step 3: Cover & Insulate
The final step is to cover and insulate each exterior faucet on your home. Purchase as many foam slip on covers as you need and place them on each faucet. For additional insurance, fill each cover with insulation or purchase a cover that has insulation built in. If you live in an extremely cold area, consider calling a plumber to help with the installation of covers and draining of the pipes.
Winterizing your faucets is a short three-step process that should be done each fall, or else you’ll be paying to replace a burst pipe. When you need a plumber to help you with draining your faucets, contact Tri-City Heating and Cooling. To learn more, or to schedule an appointment, give us a call at (203) 303-5700.