Before temperatures drop, take some time to inspect and prepare your outdoor plumbing.

A few simple DIY projects can help prevent frozen pipes, leaks, and costly repairs while keeping your outdoor water system ready for next season.

1. Winterize Your Outdoor Faucets

One of the most important fall plumbing projects is preparing outdoor faucets for freezing temperatures.

• Disconnect all garden hoses.

• Check faucets for leaks or damage.

• Drain any remaining water from the faucets.

• Follow the manufacturer's winterization instructions. You may need to shut off the relevant water supply and insulate your hose bibbs with foam covers. 

• Consider upgrading to a frost-free outdoor hydrant if your existing faucet is prone to freezing. Aquor's House Hydrants automatically seal, drain, and winterizes when disconnected. No foam covers, no frozen pipes! 

2. Inspect Exposed Pipes and Connections

Walk around your property and look for plumbing that's exposed to the elements.

Check for:

• Cracks or corrosion

• Loose fittings

• Leaking connections

• Damaged insulation

• Areas where pipes are particularly exposed to cold temperatures

Replace damaged components and add appropriate insulation where needed.

3. Winterize Your Irrigation System

If you have an underground irrigation system, fall is the time to prepare it for freezing weather.

Depending on the system, winterization may involve:

• Shutting off the water supply.

• Draining the system.

• Blowing compressed air through the lines.

• Insulating above-ground components.

• Protecting backflow preventers.

For complex irrigation systems, follow the manufacturer's instructions or consult a professional.

4. Drain and Store Your Garden Hose

Don't overlook the hose itself.

Before storing your hose for winter:

1. Disconnect it from the faucet.

2. Drain all residual water.

3. Coil it loosely to prevent kinks.

4. Store it somewhere protected from freezing temperatures and sunlight. Your garage or a well-insulated shed are great options! This sleek Hose Hanger will make hose storage extra easy.

5. Check Outdoor Drains and Water Features

Fall debris can quickly clog outdoor drains, and standing water can create problems when temperatures drop.

Before winter:

• Clear leaves and debris from drains.

• Clean gutters and downspouts.

• Check drainage around your home's foundation.

• Drain fountains and other water features if necessary.

Bonus: Upgrade Your Outdoor Water Access

If your outdoor faucet is a pain to use, prone to leaks, or requires seasonal insulation, fall can be a good time to consider an upgrade.

A frost-free, quick-connect outdoor hydrant can make outdoor water access easier while simplifying winterization.

Outdoor plumbing doesn't have to be complicated. By taking care of these five projects before winter, you can protect your plumbing, prevent avoidable damage, and start next spring with a system that's ready to go.

Want more seasonal prep tips? Learn How to Prep Your Yard for Fall and Winter.