Why is it important to disconnect hose in winter?

As the weather gets colder and you anticipate heavy snow, it’s a good idea to finish up some quick winterization for your pipes and drains at home. It’s absolutely crucial to keep water out of your outdoor pipes during the winter months because frozen water can cause pipes to crack or burst.

Why should you disconnect your garden hose in winter?

After using the garden hose all summer, it’s easy to forget about it when it gets cold and leave it connected to an outdoor faucet. But don’t do that! Make sure to disconnect any garden hoses and tighten the faucet to turn off the water for the winter. If you leave the hose attached, a bit of water can freeze in the pipe near the faucet, potentially causing damage. 

Water expands when it freezes, and if your hose is still attached, it can cause pipes to burst. You can avoid costly home repairs by disconnecting your hose in winter.

So, even if your outdoor spigot is “frost-free,” pack away the hose in winter to avoid pipes freezing and breaking. 

How to winterize your plumbing?

Winterization is crucial to protect your home and belongings from the harsh effects of winter. Taking preventive steps can help you avoid potential damage such as frozen pipes, burst plumbing, and other cold weather-related issues. 

Here are some ways you can keep your plumbing safe as the season changes. 

• Disconnect and remove the hose before the ground freezes.
• Pack up your gardening equipment.
• Drain outdoor faucets and water pipes.
• Shut off valves to block water lines leading outdoors.
• Use an insulated faucet jacket and cover any exposed plumbing with insulation.

Read more for some great home winterization tips

What happens if you do not disconnect your hose in winter?

If it gets too cold, the water inside pipes and the spigot can freeze. As the ice expands, it can burst the pipe, leading to potential flooding in your home when it thaws. 

How long does it take for the pipes to freeze? 

A pipe can freeze in about four to five hours – faster in sudden and prolonged freezing temperatures. The vulnerability of the pipe depends on factors such as insulation, location, and exposure to cold air.

What should you do if you forget to disconnect hose in winter? 

If your hose is frozen, disconnect it, open the spigot, wrap it in rags, and pour hot water until it thaws. Let the water run for a few minutes and leave the spigot slightly open to prevent refreezing. If issues persist, it’s best to call a licensed plumber for assistance.

What is the best way to remember to winterize your plumbing?

Home and yard maintenance need not be an overwhelming task for anyone. With a useful app such as Kukun My Maintenance, you can schedule and organize your upkeep tasks, add new ones to a personalized calendar, and get timely reminders to complete them. That way, you will never forget to keep your home in top shape. What’s more, you also receive home improvement recommendations that add to your home value. 

Bottom line

Make sure your pipes can handle freezing weather. Winterizing your home prevents plumbing issues such as freezing and bursting in the cold. Pay extra attention to outdoor faucets and any exposed plumbing. And, do not leave the garden hose attached in winter. These simple steps can save you from expensive repairs down the line.

Written by Ramona Sinha. December 29, 2023

Ramona is the Senior Content Writer for Kukun. This experienced blogger uses simple and succinct words to decipher the complex phenomenon called life. She has written articles covering a broad range of topics, such as real estate, lending and mortgage, finance, business, taxation, home designs, home improvement projects, decor concepts, and more. An avid traveler, she’s a digital nomad at heart and an animal lover from the depth of her soul.