Everything You Need to Know About Frost-Free Faucets

Why They Matter and How They Protect Your Plumbing Year-Round

As temperatures start to drop, one of the most common plumbing concerns homeowners face is the risk of frozen pipes and outdoor faucets. If you’ve ever dealt with a burst pipe in the winter, you know the damage—and cost—it can cause. That’s where frost-free faucets come in.

What Is a Frost-Free Faucet?

A frost-free faucet, also known as a freezeless hose bib, is designed to prevent water from freezing in the pipe that feeds your outdoor spigot. Unlike traditional faucets, the valve that controls the water flow in a frost-free faucet is located farther inside your home, well beyond the point where freezing temperatures can reach.

When you shut off a frost-free faucet, the water drains out of the exposed part of the pipe, leaving nothing behind to freeze. This simple innovation can save you hundreds (or thousands) in repair costs.

Even with a frost-free faucet, many people still experience freezing pipes because they forget one crucial step. Always disconnect hoses before freezing weather hits. A hose left attached can trap water in the faucet, preventing it from draining.

A freezless faucet with the hose left on could cause freezing and even flooding.

When to Replace an Old Outdoor Faucet

If your home still has a traditional outdoor faucet, now is a great time to upgrade. It’s a quick, affordable improvement that can prevent major winter headaches. If you’ve already experienced freezing or cracking in your current spigot, replacing it with a frost-free model should be a top priority.

Need Help Installing a Frost-Free Faucet?

At Apex Plumbing, we specialize in preparing homes for all seasons. Whether you're upgrading your outdoor plumbing or repairing a frozen pipe, our licensed plumbers are here to help.

Contact us today for fast, professional service—and peace of mind this winter.