Outdoor faucets, also known as hose bibs or sillcocks, can be exposed to freezing temperatures during winter. Insulating outdoor faucets is crucial to prevent pipes from bursting and causing water damage. Properly insulating outdoor faucets requires using the right materials and techniques. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to insulate outdoor faucets for winter.
Why Insulate Outdoor Faucets
Outdoor faucets are vulnerable to freezing because they are directly exposed to cold temperatures. The water inside the pipes can freeze and expand, causing the pipes to burst or crack. This can lead to major water damage in your home.
Insulating outdoor faucets keeps the internal components and water from freezing. This prevents costly repairs from burst pipes and water leaks. Properly insulating outdoor faucets saves you money and protects your plumbing in freezing weather.
Materials Needed
Insulating outdoor faucets requires weatherproof and waterproof materials. Some of the main materials needed include:
- Faucet insulation covers – Pre-shaped covers that fit over faucets to insulate them. Look for ones specifically sized for outdoor hose bibs.
- Pipe insulation – Flexible tubing made from foam or fiberglass to wrap pipes. Ensure it is thick enough for cold weather.
- Weatherproof tape – Strong tape such as vinyl or aluminum tape to seal seams.
- Spray foam – Expanding foam sealant to fill gaps and prevent air leaks. Look for minimal expanding window and door foam.
- Waterproof sealant – Caulking or silicone sealant rated for exterior use.
Other useful materials are rag cloth, scissors, utility knife, and wire.
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these steps to properly insulate outdoor faucets:
Turn Off Water Supply
- Locate the shut-off valve for the outdoor faucet line inside your home. This is typically near where the pipe exits to the outside.
- Turn the shut-off valve clockwise until tight to turn off the water supply.
Turning off the water ensures no leaks occur while insulating.
Drain Remaining Water
- Open the outdoor faucet to allow water to drain out of the line. Leave it open while insulating.
- Detach any hoses or accessories attached to the faucet.
Draining the line removes any standing water that could freeze inside the pipes.
Clean The Faucet
- Use a rag cloth to wipe down the faucet to remove any dirt or debris.
- Clean the surrounding wall area where you will be insulating.
Cleaning allows materials to adhere properly for a tight seal.
Apply Faucet Insulation Cover
- Take the pre-shaped faucet cover and slide it over the rear hose bib portion of the faucet.
- Pull the drawstring tight so the cover fits snugly over the faucet.
- Wrap weatherproof tape around the ends to seal any gaps if needed.
The insulation cover provides a protective barrier around the faucet body itself.
Insulate Exposed Pipes
- Measure the length of exposed pipe from the wall to the faucet.
- Cut a piece of foam pipe insulation slightly longer than this measurement.
- Slide insulation over the pipe, leaving 2-3 inches extra near the faucet.
- Seal the seam along the insulation with weatherproof tape.
Insulating exposed pipes prevents freezing in cold spots away from the warm building wall.
Seal Around Faucet
- Apply waterproof caulking or exterior silicone sealant around the faucet cover edge against the wall.
- Smooth the sealant with a finger to help fill gaps and cracks.
Sealing around the faucet cover provides an additional barrier against air leaks and moisture.
Use Expanding Foam For Gaps
- Check for any gaps between the pipe insulation and wall, or where the pipes enter the building.
- Fill larger gaps with minimal expanding spray foam.
The foam expands to seal gaps that could let in cold air.
Additional Protection
- For extremely cold climates, wrap a rag cloth around pipes under the insulation. This helps absorb condensation.
- Securing insulation with wire helps keep it snug in high winds.
Take additional steps as needed for cold and exposed faucets.
Turn Water Back On
- Once insulation is complete, go back inside and turn the shut-off valve counterclockwise to turn the water supply back on.
- Check for any leaks at connections before leaving.
Slowly turn water on and check for leaks to avoid damage.
Remove Insulation In Spring
- When the threat of freezing weather has passed in spring, remove all insulation materials.
- This prevents moisture buildup during warmer months.
Properly removing and storing insulation prevents deterioration over time.
Tips For Effective Insulation
Follow these tips to get the best performance from insulating outdoor faucets:
- Completely drain pipes using the purge valve. Any remaining water can still freeze.
- Check insulation seals for any gaps or cracks throughout winter. Re-seal as needed.
- Use extra insulation in extremely cold climates or on frequently used faucets.
- Insulate any exposed supply lines running to outdoor faucets.
- Install frost-free faucets which automatically drain water as an alternate solution.
- Disconnect and drain garden hoses during winter months.
- Consider hiring a plumber if you have limited DIY experience.
Common Questions About Outdoor Faucet Insulation
Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about insulating outdoor faucets:
How much does it cost to insulate an outdoor faucet?
Insulating a standard outdoor faucet only costs about $20-$30 for materials when done as a DIY project. Hiring a plumber ranges from $75-$150 depending on local rates and project scope.
What temperature does an outdoor faucet freeze?
Exposed pipes and faucets will generally start to freeze at temperatures of 25°F or below. Insulation provides protection for temperatures as low as -20°F before risking freezing.
Should I insulate both hot and cold outdoor faucets?
Yes, you should insulate both hot and cold outdoor water faucets. Even hot water lines can eventually freeze in prolonged freezing temperatures.
Can you insulate plastic outdoor faucets?
Plastic faucets and pipes can be insulated just like metal ones. Use foam pipe insulation and be careful not to crack plastic components. Extra insulation may be needed.
How do you winterize outdoor faucets with a shut-off valve?
Faucets with shut-off valves inside can be winterized by simply turning off the water supply and draining remaining water from the line using the outside faucet. No need to actually insulate the faucet.
Can I use heat tape instead of insulation on outdoor faucets?
Heat tape is not recommended for outdoor faucets. It is difficult to properly wrap and risks melting plastics. Faucet covers combined with pipe insulation are safer and more effective.
Conclusion
Insulating outdoor faucets properly is important preventative maintenance every fall as cold weather approaches. Investing a small amount of time and money on insulation can save thousands in repairs from burst pipes and water damage. Following the step-by-step guide above allows you to effectively insulate outdoor faucets using common materials. Take care of your outdoor faucets, and they will provide years of reliable service.