How to Keep Spigots From Freezing

Newspaper Insulation

• 1

  Loosen and remove the hose attached to the spigot by turning the female connector in the counterclockwise pattern until it comes off. Leaving the hose attached to the spigot during the winter causes it to freeze, and can also cause the pipes inside the house to crack.

• 2

  Look for the isolation valve on the faucet and turn it off. This valve allows the supply of water from the main line to reach this faucet. Grasp the handle of the valve and turn it clockwise so it is off.

• 3

  Turn on the faucet or spigot and let it run to drain any water that still remains. When no water comes out of the spigot, it means the pipes between it and the isolation valve have emptied.

• 4

  Wrap the spigot and any connecting pipes in newspaper or plastic to insulate and protect it from freezing during the winter. Cover the newspaper with plastic, or apply a second sheet of plastic over the previous plastic sheet for added protection. Ensure the spigot is completely covered before securing it with lengths of tape or wire.

Fiberglass or Foam Rubber Insulation

• 5

  Wrap a piece of fiberglass pipe or foam rubber insulation around the spigot you want to insulate for the freeze. Wear thick gloves when covering the spigot to keep the insulation fibers off your fingers.

• 6

  Cut off excess insulation from around the spigot using a utility knife. Ensure the insulation runs tightly around the spigot and any exposed pipe that runs to it.

• 7

  Wrap wire or string tightly around the fiberglass or foam rubber insulation, ensuring the spigot is completely covered.

• 8

  Cover the insulation over the spigot with a piece of plastic sheet to protect it. Use string or tape to cover the plastic sheet and fit it tightly in place.