9 minute read -
How to Turn Off an Outdoor Tap for Winter: Step-by-Step Guide
Knowing how to turn off an outdoor tap for winter is an important part of preparing your home and garden for freezing temperatures. Water left inside an outdoor tap or its supply pipe can freeze, expand and damage the plumbing. In some cases, a leak only becomes visible after the ice melts.
Fortunately, winterising an outdoor tap is usually a straightforward task if you know where the water supply can be shut off. In this guide, you'll learn how to close and drain a conventional outdoor tap, what to do if it has already frozen and how to store your garden hose for winter. We'll also explain how a frost-proof outdoor tap works and which common mistakes you should avoid.
What will you learn in this article?
- Why outdoor taps can freeze and become damaged
- How to turn off an outdoor tap for winter in five steps
- What to do if your outdoor tap is already frozen
- How to store your garden hose for winter
- How a frost-proof outdoor tap works
- Common mistakes and safety precautions
- Answers to frequently asked questions
Why should you turn off your outdoor tap for winter?
An outdoor tap is exposed to lower temperatures than most of the plumbing inside your home. When water remains trapped in the tap or supply pipe during freezing weather, it can turn into ice.
As water freezes, it expands. In a confined section of plumbing, this can create pressure that damages pipes, fittings or the tap itself. The resulting crack may not be noticeable until temperatures rise and the ice melts.
What happens if an outdoor tap freezes?
A frozen outdoor tap may stop delivering water or become difficult to operate. Sometimes ice forms around the spout or connector. More serious problems occur when water freezes inside the supply pipe, particularly where it passes through an exterior wall.
If the pipe splits, water may begin leaking inside or outside your home once the ice has thawed. This is why preventing freezing is generally easier than dealing with the damage afterwards.
At what temperature can an outdoor tap freeze?
Water freezes at approximately 0°C (32°F), but an outdoor tap will not necessarily freeze as soon as the air reaches that temperature. The risk depends on how long the cold lasts and how the plumbing is installed.
- Duration of frost: Prolonged freezing conditions increase the risk.
- Exposure: Wind and cold air can cool exposed pipework.
- Insulation: Poorly protected pipes may freeze more easily.
- Trapped water: Water remaining inside a closed pipe section can cause damage.
- Connected accessories: A garden hose may prevent certain taps from draining properly.
How to turn off an outdoor tap for winter in five steps
For a conventional outdoor tap with a separate indoor shut-off valve, winter preparation usually involves isolating the water supply and draining the exposed section of pipe.
Before starting, identify which valve controls the outdoor tap. Plumbing layouts vary between homes, and some installations require a separate drain valve to remove all remaining water.
Disconnect the garden hose
Remove the garden hose, sprinkler, timer or any other attachment from the outdoor tap. A connected hose can trap water and may prevent the tap from draining. Allow any remaining water to flow out of the hose before storing it.
Find the indoor shut-off valve
Locate the valve that controls the water supply to your outdoor tap. It may be in a utility cupboard, garage, basement or near the point where the pipe passes through an exterior wall.
Close the water supply
Turn the correct shut-off valve to its closed position. A typical round handwheel closes clockwise. Many quarter-turn lever valves are closed when the lever is perpendicular to the pipe, but always check the valve design. Do not force or overtighten a stiff valve.
Open the outdoor tap to drain the water
Go outside and open the tap fully. Any water remaining in the isolated section of pipe should drain if the installation is designed to allow this. Some systems have a dedicated drain valve near the indoor shut-off point. Use it according to the installation instructions.
Check that the pipe is properly drained
Water should stop flowing once the isolated pipe section has emptied. If it continues running, the wrong valve may have been closed or the shut-off valve may not be sealing correctly. Many conventional installations are left with the outdoor tap open after draining, but follow the instructions for your specific system.
Outdoor tap frozen: what should you do?
If your outdoor tap is frozen, avoid forcing the handle open or closed. Ice may already be putting pressure on the internal components, and applying force can make the damage worse.
How to deal with a frozen outdoor tap safely
- Identify and close the affected water supply if you can do so safely.
- Inspect accessible pipes and fittings for cracks or visible leaks.
- Allow the frozen installation to thaw gradually where possible.
- Never use an open flame, blowtorch or boiling water to thaw the tap.
- Check for leaks before restoring the water supply.
- Contact a plumber if you suspect a damaged pipe or hidden leak.
What if the outdoor tap starts leaking after thawing?
Shut off the water supply immediately. If the local shut-off valve does not stop the leak, close the main water supply where safe to do so.
Do not use the tap again until the damaged components have been inspected and repaired. A pipe that appears normal while frozen may begin leaking as soon as the ice melts.
How to store a garden hose for winter
Once your outdoor tap is winterised, remember to prepare your garden hose too. Water left inside a hose can freeze and may damage its connectors or fittings. Proper storage also helps keep the hose ready for use when warmer weather returns.
Disconnect the hose and accessories
Remove the hose from the outdoor tap and disconnect spray guns, sprinklers and other attachments. This is particularly important for frost-proof taps that must drain after use.
Drain the remaining water
Lay the hose out and gently lift it section by section to help the water escape. Avoid sharp bends or twisting the hose, especially when the material is cold.
Clean and dry the hose
Wipe away dirt and mud. Check the connectors for visible damage and allow the hose and accessories to dry before putting them away.
Coil the hose loosely
Roll the hose into large, even loops without creating tight bends. A suitable hose holder or storage reel can help keep it organised.
Store the hose in a protected location
Place the hose in a dry garage, utility room or garden shed, following the manufacturer's storage recommendations. Protect it from prolonged freezing conditions and unnecessary exposure to sunlight.
Don't forget your cordless garden tool batteries
While you're putting away your garden hose, it's also a good time to check your cordless garden tools. Cold temperatures can temporarily reduce lithium-ion battery performance, and unsuitable charging or storage conditions can cause problems.
If you use cordless garden equipment, read our guide on how to protect tool batteries from cold during winter. It explains what to consider when storing your batteries during the colder months.
What is a frost-proof outdoor tap?
A frost-proof outdoor tap is designed to reduce the risk of freezing in the tap assembly and connected pipework. Certain models shut off the water farther inside the wall, where temperatures are generally higher.
These taps are typically designed so that water remaining in the exposed section can drain away after use. However, the exact mechanism depends on the model and how it has been installed.
Conventional vs frost-proof outdoor taps
| Feature | Conventional outdoor tap | Frost-proof outdoor tap |
|---|---|---|
| Water shut-off point | Usually at the external tap | Often farther inside the wall |
| Winter preparation | Normally isolate and drain the supply | Follow model-specific instructions |
| Garden hose | Disconnect before winter | Disconnect so the tap can drain |
| Frost protection | Depends on isolation and drainage | Designed to reduce freezing risk |
Does a frost-proof outdoor tap need to be turned off in winter?
Not always. Some properly installed frost-proof taps are designed to remain connected to the water supply throughout winter. However, this depends on the model, installation and climate. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions.
Can a frost-proof outdoor tap still freeze?
Yes. A frost-proof design reduces the risk but does not make the installation completely immune to freezing.
- A connected garden hose can prevent proper drainage.
- An incorrect installation angle may trap water.
- Blocked or damaged components can affect drainage.
- The internal shut-off point may still be exposed to freezing temperatures.
- Incorrect installation can reduce the tap's frost protection.
If you're unsure whether your outdoor tap is frost-proof, check its product documentation or ask a qualified plumber.
Common mistakes when winterising an outdoor tap
Only closing the outdoor tap
Closing the external handle does not remove water from the pipe behind it. A conventional outdoor tap generally needs its supply isolated and the exposed pipe section drained.
Leaving the garden hose connected
A connected hose, timer or sprinkler can trap water and may prevent certain frost-proof taps from draining properly. Remove all attachments before freezing weather.
Forgetting to drain the pipe
Even after closing the indoor shut-off valve, water may remain inside the supply pipe. Use the outdoor tap and any designated drain valve according to the installation instructions.
Relying only on an insulated tap cover
An insulated cover may provide additional protection, but it does not guarantee that trapped water will remain unfrozen. Proper isolation and drainage are more important for conventional installations.
Ignoring leaks after a freeze
A tap that works again after thawing is not necessarily undamaged. Check accessible fittings and pipework carefully when restoring the water supply.
Safety tips for outdoor tap winter maintenance
Preparing an outdoor tap for winter is often a manageable DIY task, but damaged plumbing can cause water leaks and property damage. Take suitable precautions and follow the instructions for your installation.
- Identify the correct shut-off valve before operating it.
- Never force a frozen or seized tap handle.
- Do not use open flames, blowtorches or boiling water on frozen pipes.
- Keep electrical equipment away from leaking water.
- Wear suitable gloves when working outside in cold weather.
- Watch out for icy or slippery paths.
- Never dismantle plumbing while it is pressurised.
- Contact a plumber if you suspect hidden damage or cannot drain the pipe safely.
If a pipe has burst, shut off the affected water supply before attempting any further work. Where necessary, seek professional assistance.
Frequently asked questions about turning off an outdoor tap for winter
When should I turn off my outdoor tap for winter?
Turn off and drain a conventional outdoor tap before significant freezing weather arrives. Autumn is a convenient time to prepare because you can finish the job before outdoor fittings become icy. Pay attention to local forecasts rather than relying on a fixed date. If you have a frost-proof tap, follow the manufacturer's winter instructions for that specific model.
Should I leave my outdoor tap open or closed during winter?
For many conventional installations, the indoor shut-off valve is closed and the outdoor tap is left open after draining. This allows remaining water to escape. However, plumbing designs vary, and some systems have separate drain valves or different requirements. Follow the instructions for your installation. The main goal is to prevent water from remaining trapped in the vulnerable section of pipe.
How do I know if my outdoor tap is frozen?
A frozen outdoor tap may produce little or no water, feel unusually stiff or show visible ice around its fittings. However, reduced water flow can also be caused by a closed indoor shut-off valve. Never force the handle to test it. If freezing is likely, isolate the supply where possible and check for leaks after the installation has thawed.
Can I use my outdoor tap during winter?
Yes, provided the tap and plumbing are suitable for winter use and the installation is not frozen or damaged. Some frost-proof outdoor taps are designed for use in cold weather, but they must be installed and operated correctly. Conventional taps may need to be isolated and drained again after use. Always disconnect hoses when required by the tap manufacturer.
Do I need an insulated cover for my outdoor tap?
An insulated cover may provide extra protection, but it should not replace proper drainage of a conventional outdoor tap. Prolonged freezing temperatures can still affect water trapped inside the plumbing. A suitable cover can be useful as an additional measure, but correct shut-off and drainage procedures should remain the priority.
What should I do if my outdoor tap has already burst?
Shut off the affected water supply immediately. If the local valve does not stop the leak, close the main water supply where safe to do so. Avoid using electrical equipment near standing or leaking water. Contact a qualified plumber to inspect and repair the damage before restoring the water supply.
Conclusion: how to turn off an outdoor tap for winter
Knowing how to turn off an outdoor tap for winter can help prevent frozen pipes, damaged fittings and unwanted water leaks. For a conventional outdoor tap, the most important steps are to disconnect the garden hose, close the correct indoor shut-off valve and drain the exposed section of pipe.
If your outdoor tap is already frozen, avoid forcing it or applying intense heat. Allow it to thaw safely and check for damage. Frost-proof outdoor taps offer additional protection, but they still need to be used and maintained according to their instructions.
Finally, remember to drain and store your garden hose and prepare your other seasonal equipment for colder weather. For more practical winter maintenance advice, read Batavia's guide to protecting cordless tool batteries from cold.
