Taking care of your outdoor plumbing fixtures is one of those things that might not be at the top of your to-do list—until something goes wrong. Suddenly, your outdoor faucet’s spraying water like a fountain, or your hose bib’s frozen solid in winter. Trust us, we’ve seen it all! At Aqua Knight Plumbing, we know how to keep your outdoor plumbing in tip-top shape no matter the season. So, let’s dive into some easy tips to keep your fixtures working smoothly year-round.
Spring: Time to Wake Up the Outdoor Plumbing
After a long winter, your outdoor plumbing is ready to wake up—and it’s your job to make sure everything comes back to life without any hitches.
- Inspect for Damage – Winter’s freezing temps can leave your outdoor faucets and pipes vulnerable to cracks or leaks. Before you connect your garden hose, check for any signs of damage. A quick inspection now can save you from dealing with water spraying everywhere later.
- Reattach the Hose – This one sounds obvious, but after a few months of not using it, you might forget about reconnecting the hose properly. Make sure it’s securely attached to the faucet to avoid drips and water waste.
- Test Your Sprinkler System – If you have an irrigation system, spring is the time to turn it back on and check for any broken or clogged sprinkler heads. Nothing like discovering a geyser in your yard when you’re just trying to water the lawn!
Summer: Beat the Heat (and Water Waste)
Summer’s all about outdoor fun, but it’s also prime time for your outdoor plumbing to be put to the test. Whether you’re watering the garden or filling up the kiddie pool, here’s how to keep things running smoothly.
- Check for Leaks – With all the extra usage, make sure your outdoor faucets aren’t leaking. A slow drip might seem harmless, but it can add up to gallons of wasted water (and dollars on your bill) over time.
- Don’t Overwork the Sprinklers – It’s tempting to let your sprinklers run all day during the summer heat, but overwatering can stress your system. Set a timer and give your lawn the right amount of hydration without overdoing it.
- Clean the Faucet Screens – The screen at the tip of your outdoor faucet can get clogged with dirt, reducing water pressure. Every once in a while, unscrew the screen, clean it out, and enjoy the full flow again.
Fall: Prep for Colder Days
As the temperatures start to drop, it’s time to get your outdoor plumbing ready for winter. A little effort now will prevent big headaches (and repair bills) later.
- Disconnect the Hose – When the weather cools down, it’s crucial to disconnect your garden hose. Leaving it attached can trap water inside the faucet, which can freeze, expand, and crack the pipes. No one wants a frozen surprise when spring rolls around.
- Shut Off Outdoor Faucets – If you have shut-off valves inside your home for your outdoor faucets, make sure to close them off before the first freeze. This keeps water out of the pipes and prevents freezing.
- Drain the Sprinkler System – If you have an irrigation system, now’s the time to winterize it. Drain any remaining water to avoid frozen pipes and damaged sprinkler heads.
Winter: Protect and Prevent
Winter is the toughest season on your outdoor plumbing fixtures, but with the right steps, you can avoid frozen pipes and other cold-weather issues.
- Cover the Faucets – Invest in insulated faucet covers to protect your outdoor fixtures from the freezing temperatures. It’s a cheap and easy way to avoid costly repairs down the road.
- Keep an Eye on the Weather – When a deep freeze is coming, make sure you’ve drained any remaining water from outdoor faucets and pipes. If you missed this step in the fall, now’s your last chance before things get icy.
- Emergency Tip – If a hard freeze hits unexpectedly, you can leave indoor faucets dripping slightly to keep water moving through the system and prevent freezing. It’s like giving your plumbing a winter workout!
Year-round TLC for Outdoor Plumbing
Your outdoor plumbing works hard all year, and giving it a little attention during each season can save you from dealing with big problems. Whether it’s winter prep or summer maintenance, a few small steps can make a huge difference. If you run into trouble or aren’t sure how to handle an issue, don’t hesitate to give us a call at 630-755-0583.
At Aqua Knight Plumbing, we’re always here to help you keep your plumbing in tip-top shape—inside and out. After all, your outdoor fixtures deserve some love too! Keep them happy, and you’ll enjoy smooth-running water, no matter the season.
