Should You Leave Outdoor Faucets Open During Winter?
As temperatures drop, homeowners often wonder, should you leave outdoor faucets open during winter to prevent frozen pipes and plumbing damage? Winterizing your outdoor plumbing is crucial for avoiding costly repairs, burst pipes, and water damage. But is it better to leave your faucets open or closed in freezing weather?
In this guide, we’ll explain whether you should keep outdoor faucets open in winter, the risks of frozen pipes, how to winterize your outdoor plumbing, and the best solutions for overflow prevention, plumbing blockage removal, and drain unclogging during cold months.
Why Do Outdoor Faucets Freeze in Winter?
How Cold Weather Affects Plumbing
- When temperatures drop below freezing, water in the pipes can turn to ice, expanding and increasing pressure inside.
- This pressure can lead to pipe bursts and costly plumbing blockage removal.
Why Outdoor Faucets Are More Vulnerable
- Unlike indoor faucets, outdoor spigots are exposed to extreme cold.
- Water trapped in exterior pipes has no insulation, making it more likely to freeze.
Should You Leave Outdoor Faucets Open or Closed?
Leaving Faucets Open – Does It Prevent Freezing?
- Leaving a slight trickle of water running may help prevent pipes from freezing.
- Flowing water is less likely to freeze and cause blockages.
Closing Faucets – Is It the Safer Option?
- Shutting off outdoor faucets completely is the best way to prevent frozen pipes.
- Draining all remaining water from the system ensures no ice formation.
Best Practice – The Right Way to Handle Outdoor Faucets in Winter
- Turn off the water supply to outdoor faucets before temperatures drop.
- Drain excess water to prevent plumbing blockage removal issues.
- Use an insulated faucet cover for additional overflow prevention.
Steps to Properly Winterize Outdoor Faucets
Step 1 – Shut Off the Water Supply
- Locate the shut-off valve inside your home and turn it off.
Step 2 – Drain the Outdoor Faucet
- Open the outdoor faucet to allow any remaining water to drain completely.
Step 3 – Disconnect Hoses and Attach Covers
- Remove garden hoses and store them indoors to prevent damage.
- Use foam faucet covers to insulate outdoor spigots.
Dangers of Frozen Outdoor Faucets & Pipes
Risk of Pipe Bursts and Flooding
- Frozen pipes expand, leading to cracks or burst pipes.
- Can cause severe water damage inside the home.
Costly Repairs and Plumbing Blockages
- Emergency plumbing repairs can cost anywhere from $200 – $1,500.
- Drain unclogging may be necessary if ice buildup blocks water flow.
Best Products for Preventing Frozen Pipes
Insulated Faucet Covers
- Foam covers protect outdoor faucets from extreme cold.
Frost-Free Hose Bibs
- A frost-free spigot has a built-in shutoff valve to keep water out of exposed areas.
Pipe Heating Cables
- Electric heat cables wrap around pipes to prevent freezing.
📊 Table: Comparing Open vs. Closed Faucets in Winter
| Method | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Leaving Faucets Open | Reduces chance of pressure buildup | Wastes water and increases utility bills |
| Closing and Draining Faucets | Prevents frozen pipes and blockages | Requires preparation before winter hits |
FAQs
Should I leave my outdoor faucet open in freezing temperatures?
It’s best to shut off and drain your outdoor faucets before freezing temperatures hit.
Can leaving an outdoor faucet slightly open prevent freezing?
A small trickle of water can reduce freezing risk, but shutting off the water supply is safer.
How do I know if my outdoor faucet is frozen?
If no water comes out or you hear strange noises in your pipes, they may be frozen.
What happens if my outdoor faucet freezes?
Frozen water expands, increasing pressure and possibly causing burst pipes or drain unclogging issues.
How can I winterize my outdoor faucet?
Turn off the indoor shut-off valve, drain remaining water, and use faucet covers.
Winterize Your Faucets with My Calgary Plumber
Don’t risk frozen pipes and costly plumbing repairs this winter! Call My Calgary Plumber at (587) 707-0606 today for professional faucet winterization, drain unclogging, and overflow prevention services. Protect your outdoor plumbing before the freezing temperatures hit.
