How does a frost proof hose bib work?

How does a frost-proof hose bib work? Can it freeze? What do I need to do to keep it from freezing in the winter?

Some call these a frost-free hydrant or outside faucet. They are actually different things; however, for now, we will discuss the one that is sticking out of the side of your house. It looks like the illustration below. Let's start with how they work and are made.

You will notice that the system is longer than what you would expect. It extends into the building structure past the insulation and into the heated area of the building. The valve part of the faucet is really inside of the building, not at the handle like a frost-free or a standard gate or even a ball valve type stop.

By doing this, it can protect the system from frost or cold temperatures. When you turn the handle on or off, it turns the long stem in or out, which opens the valve at the back of the system, letting water flow or stopping the water flow.

An important part of the installment is making sure the stem of the system is slanted to let water drain out of the building when off. This means making sure the valve is higher than the handle part. This lets the water drain from the valve to the outlet completely. By draining the pipe, it keeps water from freezing and breaking the pipe.

Can it freeze if it is a frost-proof hose bib? If improperly installed, yes. If the system is slanted the wrong way, such as the valve at the back of the pipe is lower than the outlet or handle, then the water will not completely drain. This water can remain in the pipe and freeze, resulting in breaks in the pipe. Another reason it can break is if a hose or other device is attached to the bib and left on. This will again not let the water drain out completely. The valve not being far enough into the heated or protected area can cause the water supply connected to the end of the valve to freeze. Another issue is air gaps around the hose bib entrance. Cracks in the sealant or no sealant at all are commonly found during inspections. This can let cold air into the building and follow the pipe back to the water supply, resulting in frozen pipes.

What can I do to keep them from freezing in the winter?

Start with inspecting any that you can see. Make sure they are not leaking or dripping. Make sure they are sloped in the correct direction so water will always drain out completely. Look around the water bib where it comes out of the building. Is it sealed all the way around it well? Do you see any cracks or open spaces in the wall around it? If you do, seal these up with an appropriate sealant. If you don't feel qualified or comfortable doing so, contact a qualified professional to do so. Check to see, if it is visible, if the pipe and space around the pipe inside the building is well insulated. Finally, Remove any attachments on the hose bib. In other words, take off the garden hose before it gets cold. Some people will use covers during the winter to help keep the air off as well as trying to insulate them a bit further. If you maybe don't feel comfortable with doing any of these things but would like them done, check with a local licensed plumber you trust to make the repairs you need done.

These are some of the things we look for during our home inspections. Air gaps around the home that can let cold air and water into the home. Water leaks that are not known about that can cost homeowners and buyers unexpected expenses. If you would like to have your home inspected, let us know. We will be happy to help out and keep your most important investment safe.

Hope this helped out and have a great day.

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