Georgia winters are usually mild, but short drops in temperature can still create problems for your outdoor plumbing. Even brief cold snaps can weaken hoses, crack exterior pipes, or damage fixtures if they are not prepared for cooler weather. With a few simple steps, you can protect your home and avoid costly repairs.
At Go Rapid Inc., we help homeowners keep their plumbing systems safe all year long. These tips will help you prepare your outdoor fixtures for winter and keep your plumbing in good shape.
Why Protecting Outdoor Plumbing Matters
Outdoor fixtures face more exposure to cold air and moisture than indoor pipes. When temperatures fall, any water left in hoses or exterior lines can freeze and expand. This pressure increases the chance of leaks and cracks. Taking time to prepare now helps you prevent problems before they start.
1. Remove and Store Your Garden Hoses
Garden hoses hold water even after you turn off the faucet. When that water freezes, it can expand into the faucet connection and cause damage.
Follow these steps to protect your hoses:
- Disconnect all hoses from exterior spigots.
- Drain the water completely by holding one end higher than the other.
- Store hoses indoors in a dry place like a garage or shed.
Removing hoses allows water to drain from the outdoor faucet and lowers the risk of freeze damage.
2. Shut Off and Protect Exterior Valves
If your home has an interior shut-off for outdoor faucets, use it before the colder months. Shutting off exterior valves helps stop water from sitting in the line and keeps pressure from building during a cold snap.
Here is what to do:
- Find the valve that controls the water line to each outdoor faucet.
- Turn the valve to the “off” position.
- Open the exterior faucet outdoors to drain any remaining water.
- Leave the faucet slightly open through the winter to relieve pressure.
If your home does not have an interior shut-off, consider adding one. It provides better protection for your outdoor plumbing during unpredictable weather.
3. Insulate Exposed Outdoor Pipes
Pipes that run through unheated areas, such as crawl spaces, basements, and exterior walls, face a higher chance of freezing during a cold night. Insulation keeps them warm enough to reduce that risk.
Pipe insulation options include:
- Foam pipe sleeves
- Weatherproof tape
- Insulated faucet covers
These materials are inexpensive and easy to install. A quick inspection of exposed pipes around your home can help you spot areas that need insulation before temperatures drop.
4. Protect Outdoor Faucets and Spigots
Even after shutting off outdoor faucets, cold air can still reach the fixture. Faucet covers create a barrier that helps protect the faucet from freezing wind and moisture.
To protect your outdoor faucets:
- Remove any debris or buildup around the fixture.
- Place an insulated faucet cover over the faucet.
- Make sure the cover fits securely to block cold air.
Faucet covers work well in Georgia, where winters are cool but not severe.
5. Check for Leaks Before Cold Weather Arrives
Small leaks can worsen during winter, especially in outdoor lines. Before the colder months begin, walk around your home and check each outdoor faucet and pipe connection for drips or moisture.
If you see any of these issues, call a professional plumber before temperatures fall:
- Dripping faucets
- Rust around fixtures
- Moisture at the base of exterior valves
- Water pooling near outdoor pipes
Catching problems early helps you avoid bigger repairs later.
6. Know When to Call a Professional Plumber
Some outdoor plumbing problems require expert help. If you notice weak water flow, damaged faucets, or pipes that may have frozen during a cold night, call a licensed plumber right away.
At Go Rapid Inc., our team provides fast, reliable service for exterior plumbing issues. We inspect your outdoor plumbing, repair damage, and help you prepare for winter with confidence.
Keep Your Outdoor Plumbing Safe This Winter
Even though Georgia winters are mild, short cold spells can still create stress on your outdoor plumbing. Simple steps like storing hoses, insulating pipes, and shutting off exterior valves help protect your system and prevent costly repairs.
If you want help preparing your home for winter or need repairs for your outdoor fixtures, Go Rapid Inc. is here to help.Call (770) 883-3997 today or schedule service online. Our licensed plumbers will make sure your home is ready for the colder months ahead.