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As the summer sun beats down and temperatures rise, many of us are eager to spend more time outdoors, tending to our gardens, washing our cars, or simply enjoying the warm weather. But amidst the joys of summer, there's a potential menace: The broken outdoor hose bib or "Spigot"
While these fixtures may seem innocent, a cracked outdoor faucet can quickly escalate into a major water damage disaster, wreaking havoc on your property and finances. In this blog, we'll explore the risks associated with broken hose bibs during the summertime and discuss preventive measures to safeguard your home.
The Hidden Danger:
Outdoor hose bibs, also known as outdoor faucets or spigots, are essential fixtures for watering gardens, washing cars, and other outdoor tasks. However, because they're exposed to the elements year-round, they're particularly vulnerable to wear and tear. During the summer months, when they're in high demand, any existing weaknesses in these fixtures can quickly escalate into significant problems.
Several factors can contribute to the deterioration and failure of outdoor hose bibs:
High Water Pressure: Excessively high water pressure can strain hose bibs, leading to leaks or bursts, especially if the fixtures are old or poorly maintained.
Poor Installation: Improper installation of hose bibs can leave them vulnerable to damage, such as insufficient support or inadequate sealing. Often these plumbing leaks appear when garden hoses are dragged beyond their limits and the supply line is vulnerable to becoming broken!
Like any plumbing fixture, outdoor hose bibs have a lifespan. Over time, seals may degrade, valves may fail, or metal components may corrode, increasing the likelihood of leaks or ruptures. Often pipes made of poor quality materials like cpvc and some early pex were not designed to be exposed to the UV rays of the sun, causing long term damage. If a hose bib hasn't been properly winterized or insulated, water left inside can freeze during colder months, leading to cracks or burst pipes.
The consequences of a broken outdoor hose bib can be:
Structural Damage: Water leaking from a broken hose bib can seep into walls, floors, and foundations, causing rot, mold growth, and compromising the structural integrity of your home.
Property Damage: Furnishings, electronics, and other valuables can be damaged or destroyed by water leaks originating from outdoor hose bibs.
Increased Water Bills: Undetected leaks can lead to a significant increase in water usage and subsequent utility bills.
Health Risks: Mold and mildew growth resulting from water damage can exacerbate respiratory issues and pose health risks to occupants.
Preventive Measures:
To mitigate the risks associated with broken outdoor hose bibs, consider insulating outdoor hose bibs and pipes to prevent freezing,
Periodically inspect components for signs of damage, such as corrosion, leaks, or worn seals. Inspecting all your spigots to confirm they are installed correctly, with adequate support and sealing can help homeowners have more peace of mind.
Sometimes installing a pressure regulator to prevent excessive increases in water pressure can save a homeowner a fortune as well!
Lastly, consider installing shut-off valves indoors to isolate outdoor hose bibs during winter or in case of emergencies.
While outdoor hose bibs may seem like minor fixtures, their failure can result in significant water damage and financial loss, particularly during the summer months when they're in frequent use. By understanding the causes of damage and implementing preventive measures, homeowners can safeguard their properties against the risks posed by broken outdoor hose bibs. Remember, a little maintenance and vigilance can go a long way in preventing a soggy summer disaster!
