The short answer
Find the Shutoff Valve
Start by locating the shutoff valve for each outdoor spigot. This valve is typically inside your home, near the ceiling of a crawl space, utility room, or garage. It may be a simple gate valve or a lever-style ball valve. Knowing its exact location saves time when temperatures drop.
Once you find it, turn the valve clockwise to shut off the water supply to the spigot. If you cannot find a shutoff valve, the spigot may be a frost-proof model, but you still need to disconnect hoses and drain the line. Keep the shutoff valve location written down for quick reference.
Drain the Water
After shutting off the valve, go outside and open the spigot handle fully. This allows any water left in the pipe to drain out. Leave the spigot open for the entire winter so any remaining moisture can escape and expand without cracking the pipe.
If your spigot has a small cap or bleeder valve, open it to release trapped water. Also, disconnect and drain any garden hoses, then store them indoors. A hose left attached can hold water that freezes and damages the spigot or the pipe behind it.
- Open the spigot fully after turning off the indoor valve
- Leave the spigot open all winter to prevent ice pressure
- Disconnect and drain all garden hoses before freezing weather
- Store hoses indoors to keep them in good condition
Add Insulation
For extra protection, install an insulated foam cover over the outdoor spigot. These covers fit snugly and help trap heat from the air, reducing the chance of freezing. You can find them at most hardware stores, and they are easy to put on and remove.
If you cannot find a cover, wrap the spigot with old towels or rags and secure them with plastic wrap. This simple layer adds a buffer against cold air. Do not rely on insulation alone; always shut off the water supply first.
- Use a foam spigot cover for a snug fit
- Wrap with towels and plastic if a cover is unavailable
- Insulation helps but does not replace draining the line
- Check the cover periodically for damage or looseness
Bleed the Lines
Some homes have a bleeder valve on the shutoff or near the spigot. Open this valve after shutting off the main supply to let air in and water out. This step is crucial for pipes that run through unheated areas like garages or exterior walls.
If you have multiple spigots, repeat the process for each one. Work from the highest spigot to the lowest to help gravity drain the lines. Taking the time to bleed every line prevents trapped water from freezing and expanding, which is a common cause of burst pipes.
When to Call the Pros
If you notice a crack, leak, or water damage near the spigot after winterizing, address it quickly. Even a small leak can lead to bigger problems. For help with drywall or flooring damaged by water, local water damage pros can inspect and handle the repairs.
If you are unsure about your home's plumbing layout, a plumber can help locate shutoff valves and winterize properly. Acting before a freeze is always safer than dealing with a burst pipe. For any water damage that occurs, seek professional assistance to prevent mold and structural issues.
- Check for drips or cracks after draining
- Call a plumber for hard-to-find shutoff valves
- If water damage occurs, contact local water damage pros
- Keep the spigot open until spring to avoid pressure buildup
Water damage does not wait
Call (386) 272-5697 any time, day or night, and describe what happened.
Call Now (386) 272-5697Frequently asked questions
Do I need to winterize outdoor spigots in Florida?
Even in mild climates, a sudden freeze can happen. If temperatures dip below freezing, draining the spigot is wise. Check local forecasts and winterize if a freeze is predicted. It only takes a few minutes and prevents costly damage.
What happens if I forget to winterize my spigot?
If water freezes inside the pipe, it expands and can crack the pipe or spigot. This often leads to leaks once the ice melts. You may notice water damage on walls or ceilings. Act quickly to shut off the water and call a plumber if needed.
Can I leave my hose attached during winter?
No, always disconnect hoses before freezing weather. A hose holds water that can freeze and back up into the spigot, causing damage. Drain the hose and store it indoors. Leaving it attached also makes it harder to drain the spigot properly.