While winter in Texas might be mild compared to other parts of the country, it can still get downright chilly, and cold temperatures can take a serious toll on outdoor plumbing fixtures. Unprotected faucets, hoses left outside, and exposed sprinkler lines can freeze, causing cracks, leaks, and bursts. To avoid serious problems and costly repairs, preparing ahead of the cold weather is essential.
At Slim Plumbing, we know how important it is to protect your outdoor plumbing from winter hazards. We’ve seen firsthand the problems freezing temperatures can cause, which is why we’ve put together a list of practical tips you can use to winterize your outdoor faucets, sprinklers, and hoses.
Why Winterizing Your Outdoor Plumbing Matters
Even in Texas, brief cold snaps can cause major problems for outdoor plumbing fixtures. Just one frozen faucet or sprinkler can cause serious damage and exorbitant repairs. Taking the time to winterize your outdoor plumbing fixtures can:
- Protect pipes from freezing and bursting
- Prevent water damage to your property
- Help you avoid unexpected repairs
- Ensure your irrigation system is ready for spring
With more than 80 years of combined experience, the team at Slim Plumbing has been helping Texans safeguard their homes and properties from winter plumbing surprises.
How to Winter-Proof Your Outdoor Plumbing
When temperatures start to dip, your outdoor plumbing is at risk. From burst pipes to cracked sprinkler lines, the damage can be extensive — and expensive. Properly preparing your fixtures before Old Man Winter arrives can help you avoid serious headaches, protect your property, save money, and ensure your irrigation systems are ready to use when spring returns.
Use the following steps to winterize your outdoor plumbing and ensure your property remains safe all season long.
Protect Outdoor Faucets
Also known as hose bibs, outdoor faucets are one of the most exposed components of your outdoor plumbing system. Protect them by:
- Disconnecting and draining hoses: Any remaining water can freeze and create pressure, damaging both the hose and the faucet.
- Install faucet covers: Inexpensive and easy to install, insulated covers protect faucets from frigid temperatures.
- Turn off outdoor water lines: If you have an indoor shut-off valve for outdoor faucets, be sure to turn it off and drain the remaining water from the line.
- Check for leaks: Correcting minor leaks before the cold weather sets in can help you avoid bigger (and pricier) problems down the road.
Winterize Your Sprinkler System
Sprinkler systems are particularly prone to damage during the winter months, as any water left in the lines can freeze. To properly winterize your sprinkler system:
- Shut off the system: Turn off the sprinkler controller and close the main valve.
- Drain the lines: Use the drain valves or compressed air to blow out the system to remove any remaining water.
- Insulate above-ground components: Wrap above-ground components, such as backflow preventers and pumps, to prevent freezing.
- Contact a professional: A licensed plumber can inspect your sprinkler system and make sure it is properly winterized.
Store and Maintain Hoses
Often overlooked, hoses are just as vulnerable to cold weather as other outdoor plumbing fixtures. Properly storing them prevents leaks and extends their lifespan. Safeguard your hoses by:
- Removing all water: Thoroughly drain the hoses before putting them away.
- Keep indoors: To protect hoses from freezing temperatures, store them inside, such as in a garage or shed.
- Inspect before using: In the spring, inspect hoses for cracks, leaks, or any other signs of deterioration, and replace if damaged.
Know When to Call a Pro
While you can handle a lot of outdoor plumbing winterization yourself, in some instances, the advice and insight of an experienced professional may be required. Contact Slimp Plumbing if you:
- Notice cracked or leaking pipes, faucets, or fittings
- See signs of damage to your sprinkler system
- Have trouble draining water from certain components
- Have questions about proper winterization
- With more than 80 years of combined experience, the team of licensed professionals at Slim Plumbing offers comprehensive inspections, reliable guidance, and complete winterization services. We are committed to helping Texas homeowners protect their outdoor plumbing from freezing temperatures and expensive repairs.
Don’t Let Winter Catch Your Plumbing Off Guard
When it comes to preventing your outdoor plumbing from costly winter damage, a little preparation goes a long way. From frozen faucets to burst sprinkler lines, taking the time to properly winterize outdoor plumbing fixtures can help you avoid major headaches and expensive repairs.
At Slim Plumbing, we pride ourselves on providing dependable, high-quality service. Whether you need seasonal maintenance, system winterization, or emergency repairs, our team of expert plumbers has the knowledge and skill you can count on to handle all your plumbing needs.
Don’t let the first freeze catch you off guard! Contact us today to schedule a winterization service and rest easy knowing your outdoor plumbing is ready to handle whatever winter has in store.