How to Wrap an Exterior Water Outlet

Pipes that are exposed in any way to the outdoor air are at risk of freezing in most temperate or cold climates. Faucets are especially at risk of damage from freezing conditions since they are permanently exposed to the outdoor air. Wrapping the supply pipe that feeds water outlets with insulation will help prevent them from freezing. Adding insulation involves wrapping the pipe with insulating foam wrap, and covering the faucet with a protective insulating cover.

Pipe insulation wrap
Foam faucet cover

Instructions

- 1
  Locate the pipe on the inside of the house that supplies the water to the exterior water outlet. The pipe is usually directly inside the house near where the faucet attaches to the wall.
- 2
  Place the end of a roll of insulating foam pipe wrap on the pipe as close to the wall as possible. Wrap the insulation around the pipe, working your way back toward the interior of the house. Wrap at least 3 feet of pipe, if possible. If the pipe becomes inaccessible, wrap as much as you can.
- 3
  Go to the outdoor faucet. If there is any amount of supply pipe exposed, wrap it with the insulating pipe wrap.
- 4
  Place the rubber ring inside a protective foam faucet cover over the handle of the faucet. Pull on the rubber band on the outside of the cover to secure the cover against the faucet. The water outlet is now protected against freezing.

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