How to Properly Winterize Your Exterior Faucets As temperatures drop, one of the most important steps homeowners can take to protect their plumbing system is winterizing outdoor hose bibbs  (also known as exterior faucets or spigots). Failing to do so can lead to frozen pipes, leaks, or even significant water damage inside your home once the weather warms up. At Wacker Plumbing , we routinely see freeze-related damage each winter that could have been prevented with a few simp