How to Winterize Outdoor Plumbing to Avoid Frozen Pipes This Holiday Season

The last thing homeowners want to deal with during the winter is the hassle of frozen or burst pipes. Outdoor plumbing is particularly vulnerable to freezing temperatures, making it crucial to take preventive measures to protect your home and wallet from costly repairs.

Why Winterizing Outdoor Plumbing Is Important

Water expands when it freezes, which can cause pipes to burst under pressure. Outdoor plumbing, including garden hoses, spigots and irrigation systems, is especially prone to freezing due to its exposure to cold temperatures. A burst pipe not only disrupts your water supply but can also lead to expensive water damage inside and outside your home. By taking a few proactive steps, you can avoid these issues and enjoy a stress-free winter.

Step-by-Step Guide to Winterizing Outdoor Plumbing

1. Disconnect and Store Garden Hoses

One of the simplest ways to prevent frozen pipes is to disconnect your garden hoses. Leaving hoses attached to outdoor spigots traps water, which can freeze and cause damage to both the hose and the faucet. Once disconnected, drain the hoses completely and store them in a shed or garage to protect them from the elements.

2. Shut Off Outdoor Water Supply

If your home has a shut-off valve for outdoor faucets, locate it and turn it off. This prevents water from flowing to outdoor spigots during freezing weather. After shutting off the valve, open the outdoor faucet to drain any remaining water. Leaving the faucet slightly open allows any residual water to expand without causing damage.

3. Insulate Outdoor Faucets

Covering outdoor faucets with insulation is an easy and effective way to prevent freezing. Faucet covers are inexpensive and widely available at hardware stores. Simply secure the cover over the faucet to provide an extra layer of protection against cold temperatures. For added security, consider wrapping the faucet with foam pipe insulation or a towel before attaching the cover.

4. Drain and Winterize Irrigation Systems

Irrigation systems require special attention to avoid freezing damage. Start by shutting off the water supply to the system. Then, drain any remaining water by manually opening the drain valves or using an air compressor to blow out the water. Consult your irrigation system’s manual for specific winterization instructions, as some systems may require professional assistance.

5. Inspect and Insulate Exposed Pipes

Outdoor pipes and those located in unheated areas, such as basements or crawl spaces, should be inspected for vulnerabilities. Use foam pipe insulation to wrap exposed pipes, providing a protective barrier against freezing temperatures. For additional protection, consider heat tape or heat cables designed to keep pipes warm during extreme cold.

6. Keep an Eye on Weather Conditions

Stay informed about upcoming cold snaps and take extra precautions if temperatures are expected to drop significantly. For example, on particularly frigid nights, you can leave indoor faucets dripping slightly to relieve pressure in the pipes and prevent freezing. This trick is especially helpful for outdoor plumbing connected to interior pipes.

7. Schedule a Professional Inspection

If you’re unsure about the state of your outdoor plumbing or need assistance with winterization, a professional inspection is a wise investment. Plumbers can identify potential vulnerabilities, ensure proper drainage of outdoor systems and recommend tailored solutions to protect your home.

Additional Tips for Maintaining Outdoor Plumbing in Winter

• Seal Gaps and Cracks: Inspect your home’s exterior for gaps or cracks where cold air can seep in and reach pipes. Seal these openings with caulk or spray foam to improve insulation.
  
  
• Use Frost-Proof Faucets: If you’re planning renovations, consider installing frost-proof faucets, which are specifically designed to prevent freezing.
  
  
• Check Regularly: Periodically check outdoor faucets and exposed pipes throughout the winter to make sure they remain in good condition.

Choose Tom’s Mechanical Inc. for Your Plumbing Needs in Tarrant County

Don’t wait until freezing temperatures cause damage, Tom’s Mechanical Inc. can help you today with our professional plumbing services.

Give us a call at 817-277-4493 or contact us here on our website to schedule an appointment and learn more about how we can help you protect your plumbing this winter.