How To Properly Store Outdoor Plumbing Fixtures Before Winter
As the cold weather starts to hit La Crosse, Wisconsin, it’s time to start thinking about how to prepare your home for winter. While most homeowners know to check their heating systems and insulate their homes, it’s equally important not to overlook outdoor plumbing fixtures. When temperatures drop below freezing, water left in hoses, sprinklers, and outdoor faucets can freeze, expand, and cause significant damage. Properly storing your outdoor plumbing fixtures can prevent costly repairs and ensure they’re ready for use when spring arrives. In this step-by-step guide, the experts at Niebuhr will walk you through how to winterize your outdoor plumbing fixtures.
Step 1: Disconnect And Drain Garden Hoses
The first step in preparing your outdoor plumbing fixtures for winter is to disconnect and drain your garden hoses. Leaving hoses connected to outdoor faucets can cause water to back up in the pipes, which could freeze and cause the pipes to burst. Here’s how to do it properly:
- Disconnect All Hoses: Start by unscrewing your garden hoses from the outdoor faucets. Be sure to remove any nozzle attachments and sprayers as well.
- Drain the Water: Hold the hose by one end and allow the water to drain out completely. To speed up the process, you can hold the hose overhead and walk along its length to push the remaining water out.
- Coil and Store: Once the hose is drained, coil it neatly and store it in a dry place, such as a garage or shed. Hanging hoses on a hook or using a hose reel can help prevent kinks and damage.
Pro Tip: For longer-lasting hoses, avoid storing them in direct sunlight or near sharp objects that could cause punctures.
Step 2: Shut Off And Drain Outdoor Faucets
Water left in outdoor faucets can freeze, leading to cracked pipes or other damage. Follow these steps to protect your faucets:
- Shut Off the Water Supply: If your home has a shutoff valve for outdoor faucets, turn it off. This valve is typically located inside the house, near where the outdoor faucet pipes enter.
- Open the Outdoor Faucet: After turning off the water supply, open the outdoor faucet to allow any remaining water to drain out. Leave it slightly open throughout the winter to prevent pressure from building up in the pipes.
- Install Faucet Covers: For extra protection, consider installing insulated faucet covers. These covers are inexpensive, easy to install, and can prevent pipes from freezing.
Step 3: Winterize Your Sprinkler System
For those with an irrigation system, you will need to take additional steps to protect it from freezing temperatures. Failing to properly winterize your outdoor plumbing fixtures like a sprinkler system can result in burst pipes, broken sprinkler heads, and expensive repairs. Here’s how to do it:
- Shut Off the Water Supply: Turn off the main water supply to your sprinkler system.
- Drain the System: There are three methods to drain sprinkler systems: manual drain, automatic drain, and blow-out method.
- Manual Drain: Open the manual drain valves to let water flow out. Be sure to also drain any backflow devices.
- Automatic Drain: Some systems have automatic drain valves that release water once the pressure drops. Simply turn off the water and activate the sprinklers to release the pressure.
- Blow-Out Method: If your system doesn’t have manual or automatic drains, use an air compressor to blow out any remaining water. Be cautious with this method; high pressure can damage pipes if not done correctly, so consider hiring a professional for this step.
- Protect the Backflow Preventer: Wrap your system’s backflow preventer in insulation or install a cover to prevent it from freezing.
Pro Tip: Schedule an irrigation system blow-out with a professional in early fall to ensure the system is properly winterized.
Step 4: Store Sprinklers And Nozzles
Like garden hoses, sprinklers and nozzle attachments can suffer damage if left outside during freezing temperatures. Properly storing them can help prolong their lifespan.
- Remove and Drain: Detach sprinklers and nozzles from hoses, making sure to drain any remaining water.
- Clean and Dry: Give them a quick rinse to remove any dirt or debris, then let them dry completely.
- Store Indoors: Place sprinklers and nozzles in a container and store them indoors, such as in a garage, shed, or basement. This will protect them from freezing temperatures and other elements.
Step 5: Inspect And Insulate Exposed Pipes
Outdoor pipes and those located in unheated areas, such as basements, garages, and crawl spaces, are at risk of freezing during winter. Here’s how to protect them:
- Inspect for Leaks: Before insulating, check all exposed pipes for leaks. Fix any leaks to ensure your pipes are properly sealed.
- Install Pipe Insulation: Use foam pipe insulation or self-adhesive insulating tape to cover any exposed pipes. For added protection, consider using a pipe heating cable that will warm the pipes during extremely cold temperatures.
- Seal Gaps and Cracks: Check for gaps or cracks where pipes enter your home and seal them with caulking or expandable foam. This will prevent cold air from entering and reduce the risk of freezing.
Pro Tip: Be sure to check insulation periodically throughout the winter to ensure it remains intact and effective.
Step 6: Prepare Outdoor Water Features
If you have a garden fountain, pond, or other outdoor water feature, here are some quick steps for winterizing them:
- Drain the Water: Completely drain water features like fountains and bird baths to prevent them from cracking.
- Remove and Clean Pumps: If your water feature has a pump, remove it and clean off any debris. Store the pump indoors where it won’t freeze.
- Cover or Store: Cover larger water features with a protective tarp or cover, or move smaller items to a shed or garage.
Conclusion
It may seem like a small task to winterize your outdoor plumbing fixtures, but it’s an important step in protecting your home from potential damage during the colder months. By taking the time to disconnect, drain, and properly store hoses, sprinklers, and other outdoor fixtures, you can save yourself from the hassle and expense of repairs come spring.
Need help winterizing your plumbing? At Niebuhr Plumbing, Heating, and Air Conditioning, our team of experts is here to ensure your home is ready for the cold months ahead. Contact us today at (608) 782-1700 to schedule an appointment or learn more about how we can assist you with all your plumbing needs.
