As temperatures drop, outdoor hydration equipment faces one of its toughest challenges: freezing conditions. While many drinking fountains and bottle fillers are built with durable materials to withstand harsh climates, the real risk lies inside—frozen waterways can cause damage that leads to costly repairs and downtime.
The good news? With the right setup and preparation, your outdoor hydration stations can keep running smoothly all winter long.
Do You Need to Winterize?
Not all outdoor units require winterization. Many Haws® outdoor fountains and bottle fillers are designed with freeze-resistant technology, meaning they’re ready for year-round use even in cold weather.
Your equipment is considered freeze-resistant if it includes one of the following:
A bury valve installed below the frost line paired with a freeze-resistant push button.
An outdoor wall-mounted fountain equipped with a freeze valve box, with water lines located inside a heated building (kept above 50°F / 10°C).
If your unit has these components, no extra steps are needed—your equipment is built to handle the winter.
If not, it’s time to winterize!
How to Winterize Your Outdoor Hydration Equipment
For installations in areas where freezing occurs, follow these steps to protect your drinking fountains or bottle fillers:
1. Shut Off the Water
Turn off the water at the shutoff or on/off valve.
2. Drain the Supply Line
Disconnect the supply line tubing at the lowest point near the shutoff valve and allow all water to drain.
3. Remove the Push Button Cartridge
Haws fountains and fillers use a patented 5874PB or 5874PBF push button valve, which makes maintenance simple with front access.
Use the provided spanner wrench to align the holes and remove the push button.
Unscrew the retaining nut counterclockwise until it comes off.
Remove the cartridge and store it indoors for reuse.
4. Reassemble the Push Button
Thread the retaining nut back on and reattach the push button.
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A Note on Other Models
If your unit does not use the Haws 5874PB Push Button or you’re unsure of your model, reach out to our Technical Support team for guidance:
📞 800.766.5612
📧 [email protected]
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Keep Your Equipment Protected Year-Round
Winterizing outdoor fountains and bottle fillers is a quick step that prevents long-term damage, saving both time and money. Whether you’re responsible for a park, school, or public space, ensuring hydration stations are protected means they’ll be ready to serve the community as soon as warmer weather returns.
Outdoor Hydration Stations®
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