Step-by-Step Guide to Closing Your Outdoor Hose Bib Before Winter

Step-by-Step Guide to Closing Your Outdoor Hose Bib Before Winter

Winter in New Jersey can be unpredictable — one week it’s mild, the next it’s freezing. That’s why now is the perfect time to close your outdoor hose bib and prepare your plumbing for cold weather. Here’s a simple step-by-step guide to help you do it right.

Step 1: Disconnect the Hose
Remove any attached garden hoses. Leaving hoses connected traps water in the faucet and prevents proper drainage.

Step 2: Turn Off the Interior Valve
Find the indoor shut-off valve that controls your outdoor faucet. It’s usually in the basement, crawl space, or utility room. Turn it clockwise to close it completely.

Step 3: Drain the Water
Once the valve is off, go outside and open the hose bib. This allows any leftover water to drain out of the pipe.

Step 4: Insulate the Faucet
After draining, cover your outdoor faucet with an insulated cover to keep it protected from freezing temperatures.

These steps take just a few minutes but can prevent major plumbing damage during the winter. If you want professional assistance or prefer to have your entire plumbing system winterized, contact Real Time Plumbing at (732) 314-1082!

Don’t wait for the first frost — a quick call to Real Time Plumbing at (732) 314-1082 ensures your home’s pipes are ready for the season ahead.