How to Winterize Outdoor Faucets

When temperatures drop below freezing, water left in outdoor faucets and the pipes leading to them can freeze, expand, and burst—often inside your walls where you won't notice until the spring thaw causes catastrophic flooding. This essential fall task involves disconnecting all garden hoses, shutting off interior valves that supply outdoor faucets, draining residual water from the lines, and installing insulated faucet covers. Taking 20 minutes before the first freeze prevents water damage that can cost thousands to repair.