5 Benefits of Frost Free Spigots Every Homeowner Should Know
If you’ve lived through an Idaho Falls winter, you know just how harsh the freezing temperatures can be on your home. One often-overlooked victim of icy weather? Your outdoor spigots. A standard outdoor faucet can easily freeze and crack as temperatures plummet, leading to costly water damage and repairs. That’s where frost free spigots come in.
But what exactly is a frost free spigot, and why should you consider installing one? With spring in full bloom and summer around the corner, winter-themed upgrades are probably not at the top of your mind. But taking this step now combines the benefits of upgrades to your spigot for regular use during warmer months and keeps one more thing off your fall to-do list.
This guide will explain how frost free spigots work, outline their benefits, and discuss why professional installation is the key to getting the most out of this essential winterproof home upgrade.
What Is a Frost Free Spigot?
A frost free spigot, also known as a frost free hose bib or outdoor faucet, is a specially designed faucet that prevents water from freezing in the pipes during cold weather. Unlike a standard spigot, where water sits near the opening and can freeze when temperatures drop, a frost free spigot features a longer pipe. This design pushes the valve (the part that controls water flow) further into the wall, where it stays protected and warmed by your home’s insulation.
With this valve design, water is less likely to freeze, expand, and cause damage. Plus, the faucet automatically drains water away when turned off, ensuring no standing water remains to freeze in the first place.
It’s a simple concept that can save homeowners significant trouble and repair costs when the weather turns cold.
5 Benefits of Installing Frost Free Spigots
Why should you consider swapping out your standard faucets for frost free ones? Here are the top benefits every homeowner needs to know:
1. Prevents Costly Pipe Damage
Freezing temperatures can turn a standard spigot into a ticking time bomb. When water in the pipes freezes, it expands, potentially causing the pipes to burst or crack. This can result in significant water damage to your home, not to mention an expensive repair bill. Installing frost free spigots eliminates this risk by keeping pipes clear of frozen water.
2. Adds Convenience for Year-Round Use
With standard outdoor faucets, homeowners often need to shut off water to avoid freezing in the winter. This process can be inconvenient, especially if you forget and have to scramble mid-season. Frost free spigots allow you to use your outdoor faucets year-round, no matter the temperature. Need to rinse off muddy boots in January or water a winter-hardy plant? No problem.
3. Reduces the Need for Seasonal Drainage
Standard faucets often require homeowners to drain and winterize them before freezing temperatures hit. Forget to do it, and you’re potentially looking at a burst pipe. Frost free spigots are specifically designed to drain any residual water, saving you the hassle of manually performing this task each season and minimizing human error.
4. Improves Durability and Longevity
Thanks to their thoughtful design, frost free spigots tend to last longer than standard faucets. By preventing conditions that lead to freezing and cracking, these spigots are more likely to stand the test of time, saving you money on frequent replacements. With fewer freeze-thaw cycles affecting the pipes, your system will remain in better shape overall.
5. Boosts Curb Appeal and Home Value
While frost free spigots may seem like a minor feature, they can demonstrate to potential buyers that your home has been thoughtfully maintained. Small upgrades like this go a long way in showing that your property is well-prepared to handle harsh winters, making it more appealing to future homeowners.
Why You Should Leave Frost Free Spigot Installation to the Pros
While handy homeowners may be tempted to install frost free spigots themselves, professional installation is the smartest choice for several reasons.
Specialized Knowledge
Properly installing a frost free spigot requires precision and an understanding of your home’s plumbing system. Improper installation could still leave your pipes vulnerable to freezing, defeating the purpose of the upgrade.
Wall and Pipe Considerations
The long pipe design of a frost free spigot extends into your wall and connects to your plumbing system. A professional plumber will install the pipe correctly, considering factors like wall insulation and preventing leaks inside your home.
Save Time and Hassle
From shutting off your home’s water supply to drilling the correct size hole for the spigot, installation isn’t as simple as swapping one faucet for another. A professional can complete the job quickly and efficiently, saving you time and effort.
Warranty and Peace of Mind
Many frost free spigots come with manufacturer warranties when installed by a professional plumber. This protects your investment and gives you valuable peace of mind that the job was done right.
Protect Your Home with Frost Free Spigots
Winter in Idaho Falls can be brutal—but your outdoor faucets don’t have to be at the mercy of freezing temperatures. Spring is the perfect time to switch to frost free spigots as you gear up for gardening and other backyard projects. Installing frost free spigots is a simple yet highly effective way to protect your plumbing system, enjoy year-round convenience, and save yourself from costly repairs.
At Advanced Home Services, we specialize in installing frost free spigots for Idaho Falls homeowners. Our experienced plumbers will install your spigots correctly, giving you confidence that your home is ready to handle whatever the weather throws at it.
Want to learn more? Contact our friendly team today to schedule your frost free spigot installation or visit our website to book your appointment online.
