How to winterise an outside tap
Not sure if this matches your problem?
Use our interactive tool — answer a few questions and get a personalised diagnosis.
Most likely cause & what to check
Outside taps in the UK are vulnerable to freezing between November and March. A frozen outside tap can burst the pipe inside the wall, causing significant internal damage.
Locate the inside isolation valve for the outside tap — usually a small lever valve on the supply pipe inside the house (under the kitchen sink, or in the garage/utility room). Turn it off.
Go outside and open the outside tap fully to drain any water remaining in the pipe between the isolation valve and the tap.
Leave the outside tap in the open position — any residual water that does freeze will have room to expand without bursting the pipe.
For extra protection, fit a foam outside tap cover (£3–£10 from any DIY store) over the tap.
Reconnect in spring: close the outside tap first, then slowly open the inside isolation valve. Check for any leaks before using.
Prefer to have it done for you?
Find me an engineer →🛠 Tools & materials you may need
Get a vetted local engineer to handle it — no hassle, Gas Safe registered.
Was this guide helpful?