How to Shut Off and Drain Outdoor Water Lines Before Winter
Key Takeaways Disconnect every hose, close the indoor shutoff that feeds each outdoor faucet, then open the outdoor faucet to drain the line. If the indoor shutoff has a bleeder cap, open it after shutting off the water so trapped water can escape. Keep the outdoor faucet open for winter, and insulate it with a foam cap or other insulating material. Sprinkler systems and backflow assemblies need a separate winterizing procedure; gravity drains can leave water in low spots. Table of Contents Why do outdoor water lines need to be drained? How to shut off and drain outdoor water lines Where to look for the shutoff and bleeder valve What to do with hoses, faucet covers, and other outdoor fixtures How is a sprinkler system different from an outdoor faucet? Choose the right winterizing plan for your setup Common winterizing mistakes and how to prevent them Before-freeze checklist for outdoor plumbing Frequently Asked Questions Key points to remember To shut off and drain outdo...