Winterize Your Hose Bib
While the cold air has rolled into PA (and some snow too!), our maintenance tip of the week is focused on a winterization step that is easy to overlook while you are snuggled up indoors: your outdoor hose bib.
Frozen pipes can be a big contributor to water damage in homes throughout the winter. The hose on the outside of your home is especially susceptible to this as any water left inside the pipe can freeze causing it to expand, crack the pipe, and leave you with a big mess once it thaws.
Luckily, there's a quick and simple task you can perform to combat water damage in your home. Watch this video as Jon demonstrates how to winterize a hose bibb so you can do the same on yours.
Disconnect and Drain the Hose
Remove any attached garden hoses and drain all water from them. Store hoses in a dry, sheltered location to prevent damage from freezing temperatures.Shut Off the Water Supply
Locate the indoor shut-off valve that controls the water flow to the hose bib. Turn it off completely to stop water from reaching the outdoor faucet.Open the Hose Bib to Drain Water
Open the hose bib fully to allow any remaining water in the pipe or faucet to drain out. Leaving it open prevents water from freezing and causing pipe damage.Use a Hose Bib Cover
Install an insulated hose bib cover over the outdoor faucet. These covers provide additional protection against freezing temperatures and help trap heat around the valve.Check for Leaks
After shutting off the water and draining the hose bib, monitor it to ensure no water drips or leaks. Repair any leaks before winter sets in.Consider a Frost-Proof Hose Bib
For long-term protection, consider replacing standard hose bibs with frost-proof models designed to prevent freezing within the valve and pipe.
Following these steps helps protect your hose bib from freeze damage and costly repairs during winter.
Just Maintenance installs an insulated hose bib cover.