How Do I Winterize My Outdoor Taps?

When should I do it?

Before the first hard freeze, usually in October. Late October nights in Green Bay can already drop below freezing.

Where is the inside valve?

Usually in the basement, on the pipe running to the outside wall near the tap. It may be a small wheel or lever.

Why remove the hose?

A hose left on traps water in the tap. That water freezes and can split the pipe inside the wall, even on a frost-free tap.

How do I know if a tap split?

You won't until spring. When you turn it on, check the basement for water. A leak inside the wall or a spray at the tap means a split pipe.

What about irrigation?

Lawn sprinkler systems need their lines blown out with air before winter. A sprinkler company or plumber can do this.

Want a better tap?

A frost-free sillcock shuts the water off a foot or more inside the wall. A plumber can swap an old tap. See frozen pipes.

What if my tap has no inside valve?

Older homes sometimes have none. A plumber can add one, or replace the tap with a frost-free model, so you can winterize it properly next year.

How do I protect the tap itself?

After draining, an insulated foam cover over the outside tap adds a little extra protection against wind. It doesn't replace shutting the water off inside. Doing this every fall takes about ten minutes and prevents one of the most common spring leaks in Green Bay basements.

More plumbing guides

• How Do I Stop My Pipes Freezing in a Green Bay Winter?
• How Do I Check My Sump Pump Before the Spring Thaw?
• Why Is Water Coming Up My Basement Floor Drain?
• How Old Is My Water Heater and Should I Replace It?
• Where Is My Main Water Shut-Off and How Do I Use It?