As winter approaches, homeowners often ask, “Do outdoor faucet covers prevent freezing?” Yes, it works, but how well depends on a few things. These include temperature, insulation, and correct installation.
Outdoor faucets left exposed to freezing temperatures can cause burst pipes, leading to costly repairs. According to F&J Outdoors, an estimated 250,000 homes flood annually due to frozen pipes. Using a faucet cover is one of the simplest and most cost-effective ways to prevent this issue.
This guide explains how faucet covers work and how effective they are. We’ll also discuss other ways to winterize outdoor faucets. This will help keep your plumbing safe all winter.

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ToggleHow Do Outdoor Faucet Covers Work?
Outdoor faucet covers add insulation. They stop cold air from reaching the water in the faucet and pipes. These covers hold in heat, so the temperature near the faucet stays above freezing.
Key Benefits of Faucet Covers:
- Prevent Freezing & Pipe Bursts. Insulated covers protect against extreme cold. This reduces the risk of expansion and pipe damage.
- Affordable Protection. Faucet covers are a cheap way to prevent costly pipe repairs.
- Easy to Install & Remove. Most faucet covers don’t need tools to install. This makes them a simple choice for homeowners.
Are Faucet Covers Enough to Prevent Freezing?
While faucet covers are effective, they are not always enough in extreme cold. Homes & Gardens says an insulated cover can help in freezing weather. But it will not fully prevent pipes from freezing.
Factors Affecting the Effectiveness of Faucet Covers:
- Temperature Extremes. When temperatures fall below 20°F (-7°C) for a long time, you may need extra insulation or to let a faucet drip.
- Installation Quality. Covers should be snugly secured to prevent gaps where cold air can seep in.
- Type of Cover. Some covers offer better insulation than others. Options include:
- Hard Shell Covers. Made of durable plastic with foam insulation.
- Insulated Pouch Covers. Fabric-lined covers filled with insulation for a tight seal.
- DIY Insulation. Wrap faucets with cloth, plastic bags, or bubble wrap. It is not perfect, but it helps.
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How to Winterize an Outdoor Faucet?
Winterising an outdoor faucet is a simple DIY job. You only need a few materials and a few minutes. Here’s what you need to do:
Step 1: Disconnect and Store Garden Hoses
One big mistake homeowners make is leaving garden hoses on the faucet in winter. This can trap water inside the pipes, increasing the risk of freezing and bursting.
What to do?
- Detach the garden hose and any other accessories, such as splitters or timers.
- Drain the water completely.
- Store hoses in a warm, dry place to prevent cracking.
Step 2: Turn Off the Water Supply (If Possible)
If your outdoor faucet is connected to an indoor shut-off valve, now is the time to turn it off. This stops water from entering the outdoor pipes, which lowers the chance of freezing.
How to do it?
- Locate the shut-off valve inside your home (usually in the basement, crawl space, or near the water meter).
- Turn the valve clockwise to shut off the water supply.
Step 3: Drain the Faucet Completely
After turning off the water supply, you need to drain any remaining water from the pipes.
How to do it?
- Open the outdoor faucet and let any leftover water drain out.
- Leave it open for a few minutes to ensure the line is empty.
Tip: If water stays in the pipes, it can freeze and expand. This may cause cracks in the plumbing.
Step 4: Install an Outdoor Faucet Cover
A faucet cover adds insulation, so it helps stop heat loss and freezing, even if you’ve drained the pipes.
Why use a faucet cover?
- It traps heat around the faucet.
- Prevents exposure to cold air, wind, and snow.
- Reduces the risk of freezing and bursting pipes.
Types of Faucet Covers:
- Hard Shell Covers – Made of rigid plastic with insulation inside. Ideal for harsh winters.
- Insulated Pouch Covers – Fabric covers with thick insulation. Great for moderate climates.
- DIY Covers – Use old towels, bubble wrap, or foam insulation in a plastic bag as a budget-friendly option.
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Step 5: Seal Gaps and Insulate Exposed Pipes
If your outdoor faucet is connected to exposed pipes, it’s essential to add insulation to keep them warm.
How to do it?
- Wrap exposed pipes with foam insulation tubes.
- Use weatherproof tape to secure insulation.
- Seal any gaps between the wall and the pipe with caulk or spray foam.
Bonus Tip: If you live where it’s very cold, think about putting in a freeze-proof outdoor faucet. This helps protect your plumbing in the long run.
Alternative Methods for Preventing Outdoor Faucets from Freezing
If you want additional protection, consider these alternatives:
1. Frost-Free Outdoor Faucets
- Designed to drain water automatically, reducing the risk of freezing.
- Even if your home has frost-free spigots, it’s still a good idea to cover them for extra protection.
2. Heat Tape or Insulated Wrapping
- Electric heat tape can be wrapped around pipes to prevent freezing.
- Foam pipe insulation is an inexpensive option for mild climates.
3. Keep Your Home Warm
- Make sure your home’s heating is strong enough to stop cold air from getting to outside pipes.
Conclusion: Are Faucet Covers Worth It?
Yes! Outdoor faucet covers are easy to use, cheap, and great for stopping frozen pipes and costly fixes. They aren’t perfect, but when used right, they really lower the chance of freezing.
For best results:
- Install faucet covers early in the season.
- Ensure a snug fit with no gaps.
- Pair with other winterizing techniques (e.g., draining water, extra insulation, or dripping faucets in extreme cold).
Prepare properly to shield your outdoor faucets and plumbing from winter damage. Stay warm and worry-free this season!