Quick Answer:
If an outdoor spigot shows no water after winter, first check the interior shutoff valve that feeds that spigot and slowly reopen it. If the interior valve is open and there’s still no flow, inspect the spigot and its frost‑free stem for blockage or ice. If you see leaks, cracked pipe, or can’t restore flow safely, call a plumber.
Why This Happens
Cold weather can cause a few common issues that leave an outdoor spigot dry after winter:
- Interior shutoff valves were closed for winter and never reopened.
- Water in a short section of pipe or the spigot froze and blocked flow.
- Debris, sand, or mineral deposits can clog the frost‑free stem or the spigot outlet after thawing.
- Damage such as a split pipe or a failed valve can stop flow or divert water away.
If your spigot won’t move or behaves oddly when you try it, it may be a frozen stem — sometimes described as a spigot freezes and won’t open problem — or the shutoff inside the house is still closed.
Step-by-Step What to Do
1. Locate the interior shutoff for that spigot
- Many homes have a small valve in the basement, crawl space, or utility room where the outdoor spigot line branches off. Look along the foundation wall near where the spigot sits outside.
- If you can’t find it, check the valve under the house near the water meter or the main shutoff area. Mark it for future use.
2. Slowly reopen the interior shutoff
- Turn the valve open gradually — a quarter turn every few seconds — to avoid a sudden pressure surge that can worsen a leak or dislodge deposits.
- After reopening, open the outdoor spigot slowly and listen/feel for flow. If water returns, watch for leaks at the indoor valve, along the pipe, and at the outdoor spigot.
3. Check the frost‑free stem for blockage
- Inspect the spigot for visible debris, frozen crust, or mineral buildup around the outlet and stem.
- With the interior valve open, remove the hose (if attached) and try opening the spigot. If little or no water comes out but the interior valve is open, the frost‑free stem or the pipe may be blocked or frozen. Gently warming the spigot with a hair dryer can help melt ice; do not use open flames.
- If you see sediment or mineral deposits, a short flush (opening the spigot briefly while standing back) can clear it once flow is restored.
4. Test for leaks and restore normal use
- Once water flows, check the entire run for drips or wet spots. If you find a leak, shut the interior valve and call a pro unless it’s a simple hose bib replacement you are comfortable doing.
- If the spigot now works but sprays from the handle or leaks around the bonnet, that is a separate repair issue (see spigot sprays from the handle).
What Not to Do
- Do not force frozen valves — twisting hard can break the valve, the spigot, or the pipe.
- Do not leave the interior shutoff closed as a long‑term fix; forgetting it closed can cause more problems.
- Do not apply open flames or high heat directly to pipes or fittings; use safe, low‑heat methods like a hair dryer or heat pack if warming is needed.
When to Call a Professional
- There is a visible leak, wet drywall, or water pooling inside the home after you open the interior shutoff.
- The spigot remains dry after confirming the interior shutoff is fully open and you’ve checked the frost‑free stem.
- You suspect a split pipe under the foundation or major freeze damage, or you’re not comfortable warming frozen sections safely.
Safety Notes
- Shut the interior valve before doing any repairs on the outdoor spigot to prevent accidental flooding.
- Avoid open flames; use a hair dryer, electric heat pad, or warm towels for controlled warming.
- Wear gloves and eye protection if you’re working around ice, sharp fittings, or pressurized water.
Common Homeowner Questions
- Why is there no water even though the interior valve is open?
There may be ice or a blockage in the frost‑free stem or a broken pipe segment; inspect the spigot and thaw carefully or call a plumber. - Can I force the spigot open if it’s stuck?
No — forcing can break the valve or stem; warm it gently and reopen the interior shutoff slowly. - How do I prevent this next winter?
Shut off the interior valve and drain the outdoor line before freezing weather; insulate exposed pipes and label the valve so it’s easy to find in spring.