Prevent Pipes from Bursting during Winter Months
Often overlooked, failing to remove hoses from hose bibs in the fall can cause the hose bib to fail. Ice can build up in the hose causing undue pressure on the valves and seals in the hose bib to the point something gives… this often results in pipes bursting. When it does, if the water to the faucet has not been turned off, water will run and cause damage, sometimes major damage… so, how can this be prevented?
In the fall, remove the hose from the hose bibs and shut off the water to the hose bib. Most homes have a 90 degree throw lever somewhere in the line, while some have the old fashioned handle you have to turn several times to shut off the water. Either way, shut off the water, and then open the hose bib and drain completely. If the plumber knew his stuff, the line to the hose bib has been pitched to run down allowing the water in the line to drain. Simply leave the bib open till spring and be sure to close the bib before turning the water back on.