How to Keep Barn Hoses From Freezing

Winter preparation is key for any property owner, not only for around your home, but also for any other structures and items on your property. When it comes to barns, there's a lot of material that can be exposed to cold temperatures without any action being taken, but hoses are one of the items that need protection. With a few straightforward steps, you can keep barn hoses from freezing, whether they are stored or actively used through the winter.

Instructions

    • 1

      Turn off and disconnect the hose from the spigot immediately after you are done with watering chores. Hold the portion that was attached to the spigot in one hand and raise your hand over your head to allow gravity to begin to force the water out of the hose.

    • 2

      Grip the portion of hose that now hangs immediately in front of you with your other hand and raise it up as you take a step forward. Repeat this step alternating hands as you walk the length of the hose, forcing the water out until you reach the end.

    • 3

      Spread the hose out on the ground in a straight line. Work with the hose to turn or twist it as needed to remove kinks until the entire length lies flat.

    • 4

      Coil the hose as desired and store it bundled in a tack box, bucket or on the ground in an empty stall. For a short, frequently used hose, you may want to install a hook above your spigot and hang the hose as a coil or leave it uncoiled hanging in an upside-down U-shape. As long as the hose is empty of water it will not freeze.

    • 5

      Repeat Steps 1 through 4 every time you use the hose over the winter months to ensure you never have to struggle to provide your livestock with fresh water.

    • 6

      Purchase a reel-style hose storage box if the frequent process of emptying the hose is taking too much energy, time or effort for you. This will allow you to disconnect the hose from the spigot and crank a handle to coil the hose and allow gravity to push the water out.