Outside Spigot Shutoff

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Shutting off your outdoor spigots (hose bibs) before winter is one of the simplest ways to prevent expensive pipe damage. Here’s how to do it properly—and why it matters.

When water freezes, it expands. If water is trapped inside the pipe connected to your outdoor spigot, it can:

• Freeze and expand inside the pipe 
• Crack or burst the pipe (often inside the wall) 
• Cause leaks that may not show until spring 
• Lead to major water damage and costly repairs 

Even “frost-proof” spigots can fail if hoses are left attached or if they’re not fully drained.

• Usually found in the basement, crawl space, or utility room 
• Look for a valve on the pipe leading to the outdoor spigot 

• Turn the valve clockwise (right) until it stops 

• This lets any remaining water drain out 
• Leave it open for a few minutes until it stops dripping 

• If your indoor shut-off has a bleeder cap (small screw cap): 
  • Place a bucket under it 
  • Loosen it to drain leftover water from the pipe 

• Remove hoses, splitters, timers, etc. 
• Leaving them on traps water and can freeze the spigot 

• This prevents pressure buildup from any remaining water