Shut off and drain exterior hose bibs

Why It Matters

Water trapped in outdoor faucets freezes and splits the pipe inside the wall. You won't know until spring, when it leaks into the house.

How to Do It

1. Disconnect all garden hoses from outdoor spigots and store them.
2. Locate the indoor shutoff valve for each hose bib, typically found on the pipe inside the wall or in the basement near where the pipe exits the house.
3. Turn each indoor shutoff valve clockwise until fully closed.
4. Go back outside and open each exterior spigot fully to let any remaining water drain out.
5. Leave the outdoor spigot open through winter so that any residual water can escape and pressure cannot build up inside the pipe.

Related Tasks

• Clear sink and shower drain buildup Every 3 months
• Close and reopen the main water shutoff valve Once a year
• Inspect toilets for leaks and worn flappers Once a year
• Insulate exposed pipes in unheated spaces Once a year
• Run water in unused fixtures and drains Every 3 months