How to Insulate Outside Faucets

As temperatures drop, it’s essential to prepare your home for winter. Insulating outside faucets is a simple step to prevent frozen pipes and potential water damage. Here’s an easy and inexpensive way to protect your faucets during cold weather.

Why Insulate Outside Faucets?

Exposed outdoor faucets are susceptible to freezing in cold weather. When water inside the pipes freezes, it expands, leading to burst pipes and costly repairs. Insulating your faucets helps maintain a safe temperature around the pipes and prevents freezing.

What You’ll Need

• An old t-shirt or any fabric rags
• Plastic garbage or grocery bag
• Duct tape or zip ties

Step-by-Step Guide

Remove Water Hose From Faucet:
Unscrew any water hose or hose connector from the faucet.

Wrap Exposed Faucet:
Fold the rag or T-shirt and wrap it tightly around the faucet, making sure it fits snugly. Secure with tape.

Cover Faucet With Plastic Bag:
Cover the faucet and cloth cover with the plastic bag and tie securely. If using recycled plastic grocery bags, use two bags for extra protection.

Wrap With Duct Tape:
Wrap the makeshift cover securely with duct tape.

Inspect Regularly:
Check the insulation from time to time throughout the winter to make sure it remains intact and effective. Replace any damaged or loose covers immediately.

Pro Tips

• If you live in an area with extreme cold, consider installing frost-free faucets for added protection.
• For an extra layer of insulation, add a layer of heavy-duty plastic over the faucet cover to shield it from wind and moisture.

Insulating your outdoor faucets is quick and inexpensive, saving you significant time and money. With a few simple steps, you can safeguard your plumbing system and enjoy peace of mind all winter. My home has frost-free faucets, but I still cover them as an extra layer of protection.

Thanks for stoppin’ by!

Anne James

Anne James—also known as Jelly Grandma—is a professional canner and lifelong food preserver with over 55 years of hands-on experience. A retired librarian, paralegal, and self-taught expert in traditional Southern crafts, Anne specializes in canning, jelly-making, cooking, gardening, and quilting. She even has extensive experience as a bartender.
She’s been featured in the Daily Commercial and on Hershey’s website, and is lovingly known as the “go-to canner” in her family and beyond. Her mission is simple: to preserve and pass on the old ways—skills that kept generations thriving without shortcuts or preservatives.
You can find more of Anne’s work at PreservingSweetness.com, on YouTube, and occasionally on SurvivalFreedom.com.