Outdoor spigots, also known as hose bibs, are your home's access points for outdoor water use. Properly maintaining these fixtures is crucial, especially during colder months to prevent freezing and subsequent damage.

Types of Spigots

There are several types of outdoor spigots you may encounter:

• Compression Spigots: These require you to turn the handle multiple times to open or close the valve and regulate water flow.
• Ball Valve Spigots: Operated by a single lever, these spigots provide a reliable seal with a quarter-turn.
• Frost-Free Spigots: Designed with a longer stem, these spigots keep water away from the end exposed to the cold.

Importance of Winterization

Winterization is the process of preparing your spigot for freezing temperatures. Failure to winterize can lead to:

• Pipe Bursts: When water inside the spigot freezes, it expands, potentially causing pipes to burst.
• Water Damage: A burst pipe can result in significant water damage to your home's foundation and interior.

Proper winterization includes draining water from the spigot and insulating it to safeguard against the cold.

Preparing for Winterization

Before colder temperatures set in, it's crucial to properly prepare your outdoor spigot to prevent freezing pipes and potential water damage. Follow these steps to ensure a thorough winterization process.

Gathering Necessary Tools

For winterization, you will need:

• An adjustable wrench
• A Phillips and flat-head screwdriver
• Teflon tape
• Insulation materials (foam covers, insulation tape)
• A bucket to collect any residual water

Ensure that you have these tools on hand before beginning the winterization process.

Inspecting the Spigot

Check your outdoor spigot for any signs of damage such as leaks, cracks, or wear. This is vital because:

• Leaks can lead to water waste and damage.
• Cracks can worsen when water freezes, causing pipe bursts.

Address any repair needs before proceeding with the winterization to ensure the integrity of your spigot throughout the winter.

Shutting Off Water Supply

Locate the interior shut-off valve for your outdoor spigot, often found in a basement or utility room. Follow these steps:

1. Turn off this valve to cease water flow to the outdoor spigot.
2. Open the outdoor spigot to drain any remaining water in the line.
3. Leave the outdoor valve open slightly to allow for any expansion caused by leftover water that may freeze.

Draining the Spigot

Properly draining your outdoor spigot can prevent water from freezing inside, which could otherwise lead to pipe bursts and expensive repairs.

Removing Hoses and Attachments

First Step: Before the cold season begins, remove any hoses, splitters, or attachments from the spigot.

Why It Matters: Disconnecting prevents water trapped inside from freezing and cracking the attachments or hose.

Opening the Valve

• Turn the Handle: Open the spigot valve by turning the handle counterclockwise until it cannot turn any further.

• Importance: This ensures all water inside the spigot is drained out, reducing the risk of freeze damage.

Insulating the Spigot

Proper insulation of your outdoor spigot is vital to prevent freezing and potential burst pipes in winter months.

Choosing Insulation Materials

Select insulation materials suitable for outdoor use and exposure to water. Foam insulation covers are a common choice, providing a snug fit and excellent protection against low temperatures. Alternatively, insulated faucet socks are easy to use and can be adjusted to fit various spigot sizes.

• Fiberglass: Offers great thermal protection but requires waterproof covering.
• Rubberized foam: Highly water-resistant and an efficient insulator.

Securing Insulation

Secure your chosen insulation to the spigot tightly to ensure no parts are exposed to the air.

1. Clean the Spigot: Remove any dirt or debris to allow for a secure fit.

2. Wrap the Spigot: Cover the spigot with insulation, making sure to cover all exposed metal parts.

3. Use Tape or Clamps: Secure the insulation with weatherproof tape or special clamps designed for insulation.

   Do not use:

   • Metal wires, as they can conduct cold.
   • Regular tape, as it may not withstand the cold and damp.

Protective Covers

Protective covers shield your outdoor spigots from freezing temperatures and prevent costly damage.

Selecting the Right Cover

When choosing a cover for your spigot, ensure it's designed for outdoor use and is insulated. Materials: Look for durable fabrics such as Styrofoam or thick thermal foam. Fit: The cover should snugly encompass the spigot, leaving no gaps.

• Hard covers: Typically made of plastic or metal, offering solid protection.
• Soft covers: Often constructed with insulating materials like fiberglass.

Installing the Cover

Installing a cover correctly is crucial for maximum protection.

1. Clean the Spigot: Remove any dirt or debris before covering.
2. Position the Cover: Place the insulated cover over the spigot, ensuring it covers the entire fixture, all the way to the mounting plate on the building.
3. Secure the Cover: Tighten any built-in cords or use a separate waterproof tape to secure the edges and prevent cold air from entering.

Maintenance Tips

To protect your outdoor spigot from winter damage, consistent maintenance and immediate attention to problems are crucial.

Regular Checks Throughout Winter

• Weekly Inspection: You should visually inspect your spigot for any signs of ice or frost accumulation.
• Insulation Integrity: Verify that any insulation you've applied is intact and dry. Wet insulation can freeze and does not protect the spigot.

Addressing Leaks Promptly

• Immediate Repair: If you notice a leak, repair it quickly to prevent water from freezing and causing pipe bursts.
• Professional Assistance: When in doubt, contact a professional plumber to ensure the leak is fixed correctly and to prevent potential future issues.

De-Winterization Process

Preparing your outdoor spigot for the warmer months ensures proper function and longevity. Follow these guidelines to safely transition your spigot from winter protection to springtime readiness.

When to De-Winterize

De-winterize your outdoor spigot when the local forecast indicates a consistent rise above freezing temperatures. Check nighttime lows to ensure there's no risk of subsequent freezing, typically when daytime highs are consistently above 50°F (10°C).

Steps for De-Winterization

1. Inspect for Damage: Before removing any winter protection, examine your spigot for cracks or leaks caused by freezing temperatures.

2. Remove Insulation:

• Carefully take off any insulation covers or materials you installed.
• Store them in a dry place for use in the next winterizing season.

3. Open Valve Slowly:

• Turn the handle of your spigot counter-clockwise to open it.
• Begin with a slow turn to prevent pressure buildup, then gradually increase to a full stream.

4. Check for Leaks:

• Observe the spigot and connected pipes for any water leaks.
• If you find any leaks, promptly close the valve and consider replacing the spigot or repairing the leaks.

5. Flush the System:

• Let the water run for several minutes to clear out any stagnant water and debris.
• This helps ensure that your spigot delivers fresh water and operates smoothly.

Remember to regularly maintain your spigot throughout the active seasons to avoid potential issues when you de-winterize next year.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

When you encounter problems with an outdoor spigot during the winter, here are steps to diagnose and fix common issues:

• No Water Flow: If you turn on the spigot and no water comes out:
  • Check for Freezing: The most likely cause is frozen pipes. Insulate them properly and apply heat tape if necessary.
  • Valve Issue: Ensure the indoor shutoff valve is open.
• Leaks at Handle: Water dripping from the spigot handle could indicate:
  • Worn Packing Nut: Tighten the packing nut slightly. If the leak persists, you might need to replace the washer inside.
• Spigot Won’t Shut Off: When the spigot doesn't close all the way:
  • Obstruction: Look for debris that may be obstructing the valve.
  • Washer Deterioration: Replace any worn washers or seals.

Problem	Possible Cause	Solution
No Water Flow	Frozen Pipes	Insulate pipes, apply heat tape.
	Closed Valve	Open indoor shutoff valve.
Leaks at Handle	Worn Packing Nut	Tighten or replace washer.
Spigot Won’t Shut Off	Obstruction	Clear debris from valve.
	Washer Deterioration	Replace washers or seals.

Remember to always shut off the water supply before attempting repairs and, if in doubt, consult with a professional plumber to avoid causing further damage to your plumbing.

Professional Assistance and Advice

When winterizing your outdoor spigot, seeking professional help ensures the job is done correctly. Plumbers have the expertise to properly winterize your fixtures, preventing costly damage.

• When to Seek Help: If you're uncomfortable performing any winterization steps, it’s wise to call a professional.
• Services Offered: Professionals can inspect, drain, insulate, and install frost-proof spigots.

Consultations can identify potential issues:

• Leaks: Hard-to-spot that could lead to bigger problems.
• Insulation Needs: Which parts of your plumbing require extra protection.

Obtain Multiple Estimates:

• Compare Costs: Get at least three quotes to ensure fair pricing.
• Check Credentials: Make sure the plumber is licensed and insured.

Annual Service Packages may be available to handle all your seasonal plumbing needs.

Remember, investing in professional winterization can save you from expensive repairs due to burst pipes or water damage.