Winter is still here, and with it comes the potential for pipes to burst due to freezing temperatures. One often overlooked aspect of winterizing your home is making sure that your exterior faucets are properly protected.
Exterior faucets, also known as hose bibs or sillcocks, are located on the outside of your home and are used to connect a hose for watering your garden or filling a pool. These faucets are typically made of metal and are more susceptible to freezing temperatures than the pipes inside your home.
To prevent your exterior faucets from freezing, it is important to cover them with an insulated faucet cover. These covers can be found at most hardware stores and are easy to install. Simply slip the cover over the faucet and secure it in place.
Another option is to shut off the water supply to your exterior faucets and drain any water remaining in the pipes. This can be done by turning the valve located inside your home, typically in the basement or crawlspace. Once the water has been drained, open the faucet to allow any remaining water to escape.
It's also important to disconnect any hoses from the exterior faucets and store them indoors for the winter. A hose left connected to a faucet can trap water in the faucet, increasing the risk of the pipes freezing and bursting.
By taking these simple steps, you can help protect your exterior faucets and prevent costly damage to your home. Don't let the cold winter weather catch you off guard; take action now to safeguard your exterior faucets and keep your home safe and warm all season long.
Comments