Symptoms
- Frost-free spigot froze or cracked despite being the 'freeze-proof' type
- A hose was left connected through freezing weather
- Water still drips or trickles from the spigot when off, preventing draining
- Damage discovered when first using the spigot in spring
Likely causes
- CommonHose left attached to the spigot during freezing weatherA frost-free spigot works by draining the water back into the warmer interior of the house, but an attached hose traps water in the stem, defeating this design.
- CommonInterior shutoff valve for the spigot not fully closedIf a separate shutoff for the frost-free line exists and isn't closed, water can remain in the exterior portion longer than intended.
- PossibleSpigot's long stem itself has a worn washer letting it drip and not drain fullyA dripping stem keeps some water present in the pipe even after the main body drains, and it can freeze there.
- Less commonInstalled with an insufficient downward slope for proper drainageIf the spigot wasn't installed with the correct slight downward angle, water may not fully drain even when working correctly.
What to do
- Always disconnect hoses from any outdoor spigot, frost-free or not, before the first hard freeze of the season.
- Confirm the spigot fully drains after use by feeling for water in the stem a few minutes after shutting it off.
- If a dedicated interior shutoff exists for this line, make sure it's used correctly for full winterization, following any manufacturer instructions.
- If damage has already occurred, shut off water to that line and inspect the spigot for cracking, replacing the entire unit if damaged.
- When installing a replacement, confirm it's sized correctly for your wall thickness so the stem valve sits inside the heated space as designed.
- Consider adding an insulated faucet cover as an extra layer of protection for severe cold snaps.
- Educate household members that a frost-free design only works with hoses disconnected, since this is the most common cause of failure.
Tools and parts
- Wrench (for spigot replacement if needed)
Frost-free outdoor faucetSearch: “frost free anti siphon outdoor faucet”
When to call a pro
Call a plumber if the spigot needs replacement and involves accessing pipe inside a wall.
Safety
Generally low risk
Generally low risk for a careful person. Stop if anything looks different from what this guide describes.