Introduction
Greetings to all homeowners who want to maintain their homes’ plumbing systems! Turning off the water to your outside spigot is vital for winterizing and repairing it without damaging the pipes. In this article, we will provide you with a comprehensive guide on how to turn off the water to your outside spigot. By following our step-by-step instructions, you can easily and safely turn off the water supply to your outside spigot in no time. Let’s get started!
Understanding the Outside Spigot
The outside spigot, also known as an outdoor faucet, is an essential fixture in any household that enables you to access water from the outside. It is connected to your home’s plumbing system, and water flows through it to the outside. The outside spigot is typically used for watering the garden, washing cars, and other outdoor activities that require water.
However, as winter approaches, the water inside the pipes can freeze and cause the pipes to burst, leading to expensive repairs. Therefore, it is crucial to turn off the water supply to your outside spigot before the winter season arrives.
When Should You Turn Off the Water Supply?
You should turn off the water supply to your outside spigot before the winter season arrives. As a general rule of thumb, you should turn off the water supply before the first frost to avoid any potential damage to your pipes. If you’re unsure about when to turn off the water, check the local weather forecast or consult a professional plumber.
The Advantages of Turning Off the Water Supply to Your Outside Spigot
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|
| Prevents pipes from freezing and bursting | No access to water from outside during winter |
| Reduces the risk of water damage to your home | May require professional help to turn off the water supply |
| Extends the lifespan of your outside spigot | May forget to turn the water supply back on in the spring |
How to Turn Off Water to Your Outside Spigot
Now that you understand the importance of turning off the water to your outside spigot let’s begin the step-by-step process:
Step 1: Locate Your Main Water Shut-Off Valve
The first step is to locate your main water shut-off valve. The main shut-off valve is typically located in the basement, crawl space, or utility room of your home. It is usually a lever or a knob that you can turn clockwise to shut off the water supply to your entire house.
Step 2: Locate Your Outside Spigot Valve
The next step is to locate the valve that controls the water supply to your outside spigot. The valve is typically located near the outside spigot itself or in the utility room or crawlspace.
Step 3: Turn Off the Valve
Once you have located the valve, turn it clockwise to shut off the water supply to your outside spigot. Make sure to turn the valve off tightly to prevent any leakage.
Step 4: Drain the Water from the Outside Spigot
After turning off the water supply, open the outside spigot to let the remaining water drain out. This prevents any water from freezing inside the pipes and causing them to burst.
Step 5: Store Your Garden Hose
Remove your garden hose from the outside spigot and store it inside to prevent it from freezing and becoming damaged during the winter.
Step 6: Insulate Your Outside Spigot
Finally, insulate your outside spigot with a faucet cover or an old towel to protect it from the elements. This prevents the spigot from freezing and cracking during the winter.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What Happens If I Don’t Turn Off the Water Supply to My Outside Spigot?
If you don’t turn off the water supply to your outside spigot before the winter season arrives, the water inside the pipes can freeze and cause them to burst. This can lead to expensive repairs and water damage to your home.
2. Can I Turn Off the Water Supply to My Outside Spigot Myself?
Yes, you can turn off the water supply to your outside spigot yourself by following the step-by-step instructions in this article. However, if you’re not comfortable doing it yourself, you can always consult a professional plumber.
3. Do I Need to Turn Off the Water Supply to My Outside Spigot Every Winter?
Yes, you should turn off the water supply to your outside spigot every winter to prevent any potential damage to your pipes and spigot.
4. Can I Still Use My Outside Spigot After Turning Off the Water Supply?
No, you cannot use your outside spigot after turning off the water supply. The spigot will not have any water supply, and using it can damage the pipes.
5. How Do I Turn On the Water Supply to My Outside Spigot in the Spring?
To turn on the water supply to your outside spigot in the spring, follow the step-by-step process in reverse. Turn the valve counterclockwise to turn on the water supply and make sure to check for any leaks.
6. How Long Does it Take to Turn Off the Water Supply to My Outside Spigot?
Turning off the water supply to your outside spigot typically takes a few minutes. However, depending on the location of the valve and your familiarity with the plumbing system, it may take longer.
7. Can I Turn Off the Water Supply to My Outside Spigot If It’s Already Frozen?
No, if your outside spigot is already frozen, turning off the water supply may not fix the problem. It’s recommended to consult a professional plumber to assess the damage and fix the problem.
8. What Happens If I Forget to Turn On the Water Supply to My Outside Spigot in the Spring?
If you forget to turn on the water supply to your outside spigot in the spring, it may cause damage to the pipes and spigot. You may also experience low water pressure or no water supply to your outside spigot.
9. How Do I Insulate My Outside Spigot?
You can insulate your outside spigot with a faucet cover or an old towel. Simply wrap the material around the spigot and secure it with a zip tie or string.
10. Can I Turn Off the Water Supply to My Outside Spigot If It’s Leaking?
Yes, you can turn off the water supply to your outside spigot if it’s leaking. However, it’s recommended to consult a professional plumber to assess the damage and fix the problem.
11. How Can I Tell If My Outside Spigot Is Frozen?
If your outside spigot is frozen, you may notice that no water is coming out of it, or it’s only trickling. You may also notice that the spigot is harder to turn on and off than usual.
12. Can I Use My Outside Spigot During the Winter?
No, you cannot use your outside spigot during the winter as the water supply is turned off. Using the spigot can cause damage to the pipes and spigot.
13. What Are the Signs of a Burst Pipe?
If you have a burst pipe, you may notice water damage in your home, such as wet ceilings, walls, or floors. You may also notice a decrease in water pressure or no water supply.
Conclusion
Congratulations! You have successfully learned how to turn off the water supply to your outside spigot. By following our step-by-step instructions, you can prevent any potential damage to your pipes and spigot during the winter season. Remember to store your garden hose, insulate your outside spigot, and turn on the water supply in the spring. If you have any further questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to consult a professional plumber. Stay safe and enjoy a well-maintained home!
Closing Note
The information provided in this article is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. Always consult a professional plumber for any plumbing-related issues and follow safety protocols when working with water and plumbing systems. The author and publisher disclaim any liability for any damages or injuries that may result from the use of the information provided in this article.
