Before you put the garden to bed for winter, there’s one small job to add to your list: protecting your outside tap. When water freezes, it expands. If there’s water left in your tap or the pipe supplying it, this can cause damage and leave you with a leak once it thaws. A little preparation before the first frost can help.
Put the hose away
Disconnect your hosepipe, along with any connectors or watering timers attached to the tap. Drain the hose and store it somewhere sheltered until you need it again.
Turn off the water supply to the tap
Your outside tap may have its own isolation valve inside your home. This turns off the supply to that tap while keeping the water running everywhere else. You might find it under the kitchen sink or near the pipe leading outside.
Check your homeowner information before you start. If you’re not sure which valve is which, our Customer Care team can help you find the right one.
Let the remaining water drain out
Once you’ve turned off the supply, open the outside tap and let the water run out.
For a standard outside tap that’s been isolated for winter, leave it open so any water left inside has room to expand if it freezes. Some taps work differently, so follow the instructions for the fittings in your home.
Keep it covered
An insulated tap cover can help protect against frost, along with suitable insulation for any exposed pipes. Check that the cover fits securely and stays in place through the colder months.
If you’re unsure about any of these steps, please get in touch with our Customer Care team. We’re here to help you look after your home, whatever the season.
