As the seasons change, so do the risks associated with your home’s exterior water faucets. While it might seem convenient to leave your garden hoses attached year-round, doing so can lead to serious consequences, ranging from scalding to frozen pipes. In this article, we’ll explore why it’s crucial to detach your hoses in both summer and winter months.
Summer Scalding Danger: During the hot summer months, the water sitting in your garden hoses can heat up to dangerous temperatures if left in the sun. When you turn on the faucet, this scalding water can flow into your home’s pipes, posing a risk of burns to anyone using the tap. Children, pets, and even adults can be injured by this scalding water, leading to painful burns and potential medical complications.
Winter Freezing Hazard: In the winter, the risks associated with leaving hoses attached shift to potential damage from freezing. Water expands as it freezes, and if a hose is left attached to a faucet, this expansion can cause the pipe to burst. Not only can this lead to costly repairs, but it can also result in water damage to your home and belongings. Burst pipes can be especially problematic if they occur inside your walls or ceilings, where the damage may not be immediately visible.
Preventative Measures: To avoid these dangers, it’s essential to detach your hoses from exterior faucets before temperatures drop below freezing in the winter and to store them properly. In the summer, be mindful of the water temperature in hoses left in the sun and consider using insulated hose bib covers to help regulate the temperature.
Conclusion: While it may seem like a minor inconvenience, taking the time to detach your garden hoses from exterior faucets can prevent serious damage and injury. By staying vigilant and proactive, you can protect your home and loved ones from the seasonal dangers of leaving hoses attached.
Inspected Once, Inspected Right