The short answer
Start with the Shutoff Valve
Find the shutoff valve for each outdoor spigot, usually inside your home on the wall directly behind it. Turn the valve clockwise until it stops. This isolates the spigot from the main water line, so no water reaches the outdoor pipe.
If you cannot find a shutoff valve, check the basement or crawlspace for a valve near the exterior wall. In some homes, the valve is in a utility closet. Keep the location written down for next fall.
Drain the Spigot and Hose
After turning off the valve, go outside and open the spigot fully. Let any remaining water run out. Leave the spigot open for the winter. This allows any trapped water to expand without pressure, reducing the chance of a cracked pipe.
Disconnect all garden hoses and drain them completely. Store hoses indoors if possible. Also drain any attached sprinklers or timers. A hose left connected can hold water that freezes and backs up into the spigot.
- Turn off the shutoff valve inside
- Open the outdoor spigot to drain
- Disconnect and drain all hoses
- Store hoses and accessories indoors
- Leave the spigot open until spring
Install an Insulated Cover
If your spigot has no shutoff valve, you can still reduce risk. Buy a foam or insulated cover that fits over the spigot. These covers help keep the pipe from freezing in mild climates with wet winters and dry summers.
Before installing the cover, make sure the spigot is dry. Wrap the cover snugly and secure it with the built-in strap or tape. Covers are inexpensive and available at hardware stores. They do not replace a shutoff valve, but they add a layer of protection.
Check for Leaks and Drips
A slow drip from a spigot can leave water in the pipe, which may freeze even with the valve off. Tighten the packing nut or replace the washer if needed. A plumber can handle a stubborn leak.
Inspect the pipe where it enters your home for signs of frost or cracks. If you see water stains on the wall or ceiling, that could mean a burst pipe. Act quickly to dry the area and call a local water damage pro for help.
Prepare for Emergencies
Even with careful winterizing, extreme cold can cause failures. Know where your main water shutoff is so you can stop the flow fast. If a pipe bursts, turn off the water and call a pro for extraction and drying.
Water damage from a frozen spigot can soak walls and floors. If that happens, the pros can help with structural drying and dehumidification. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. Check your policy to see what your insurance covers.
- Know your main water shutoff location
- Turn off water immediately if a pipe bursts
- Call a pro for water extraction and drying
- Document damage for your insurance claim
Need help right now?
Water keeps spreading into floors and walls, so it is worth acting early. Calls are answered 24/7.
Call Now (425) 407-5186Frequently asked questions
Do I need to winterize a spigot if I live in a mild climate?
Yes, even in mild marine climates, a hard freeze can happen. Winterizing takes minutes and prevents expensive repairs. If your area rarely drops below freezing, you might skip it, but the risk is not zero.
Can I use a faucet cover instead of a shutoff valve?
A cover helps, but it is not as reliable as a shutoff valve. The cover only insulates the outside part. If the pipe inside the wall freezes, a cover may not prevent damage. Use a cover only if you cannot access a valve.
What if my spigot is already frozen?
Do not try to thaw it with a torch or open flame. Use a hairdryer or heat tape to warm the pipe slowly. If you suspect a crack, turn off the water and call a plumber. Check for leaks after thawing.