Outdoor Hose Bibs and Frost-Free Faucets: Preventing Winter Freeze Damage

Water left in an outdoor faucet and its supply pipe can freeze and rupture, causing water damage inside or under the home (Economical Insurance). Both sources below stress acting before freezing weather.

Frost-free bibs

Apollo Home says a frost-free bib looks like a standard spigot but has a longer interior pipe with the shutoff valve set farther toward the warm interior, and the pipe slopes down so water can drain out. It says most modern homes use this type. The page gives no length. Not verified: whether your bib is frost-free; check the model or ask a plumber.

Apollo adds that preparation is still required: shut off the valve, let the water drain, and disconnect hoses. A hose left attached keeps water from draining, and freezing can crack the bib. Hidden damage often appears in spring when a hose is first used.

Winter steps listed by Economical

Shut off the outdoor water shut-off valve, usually indoors near the ceiling on the bib's wall.
Disconnect the hose, close the bib fully, and drain the hose before storage.
Briefly reopen the outdoor faucet so remaining water runs out.
Put a bucket under the indoor valve and open its drain plug, then close it when drained.
Leave the bib open through winter so any water that enters can run out.

Not verified: local code rules on frost-free bibs or backflow devices on hose connections.

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General information only. Not plumbing, legal or code advice. Confirm with a licensed plumber and your local authority.