What it means
A hose bib is a valve body mounted through an exterior wall with a threaded spout for hose connection. Frost-free models place the shutoff seat inside the warmed wall cavity to reduce freeze risk.
Missing vacuum breakers on older bibs create cross-connection risk if a hose ends up submerged. Leaking packing nuts and split vacuum breakers are common repair items.
Why it matters in Santa Cruz County
Santa Cruz County mild winters still see occasional pipe bursts on exposed bibs in mountain cabins above the fog line. Salt air corrodes exterior fittings on ocean-facing homes in Rio Del Mar and Seacliff.
Homeowner tip
Disconnect hoses in cold snaps and repair dripping hose bibs promptly to avoid hidden wall damage.
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Related glossary terms
Also explore the Septic Glossary or call 831.225.4344 with questions about your property.