Though it is hard to believe after this brutal winter, spring is in sight. With spring being right around the corner many of us on the warm days to come will go out and turn on the outside faucet. If you turn on the outdoor faucet and you notice that there is not as much pressure in the hose as you remember. This could be the first sign that you have a frozen sill cock.
The Causes of a frozen sill cock may include:1) Not removing garden hose before cold weather sets in.
2) Improper installation (angle of the sill cock)
3) Slow drips creating a frozen sill cock.
4) Shifting of the house/foundation
Signs that you may have a frozen sill cock:
1) Low pressure in garden hose.
2) Visibly wet ceiling, walls, and/or carpet.
Usually wet ceiling needs to be removed to address plumbing break and dry properly. Don't forget that the wet insulation in the wall may need to removed to also dry properly to avoid mold growth.
PREVENTION is taking the proper steps in the fall to avoid a frozen sill cock. Also if you notice the signs that you have a frozen sill cock, make sure to shut off the faucet or turn of the main water shut off quickly to reduce further damage to the property.
