Outdoor faucets, also known as hose bibs or spigots, serve a vital purpose for the home and garden, providing water access for tasks such as watering plants, washing cars, or filling pools. Over time, these faucets can wear out or develop leaks, making it necessary to replace them.
Before tackling this DIY project, it’s important to understand the various types of outdoor faucets and their unique features. Compression faucets are the most common and require turning a handle to open and close the water flow. Meanwhile, frost-free faucets have a longer stem to keep water from freezing in colder temperatures.
Determining the type of faucet you have and its specific requirements will ensure a smoother replacement process.
Before you begin to replace your outdoor faucet, gather all the necessary tools and materials in advance. These may include a wrench, Teflon tape, plumber’s putty, and of course, the replacement faucet itself. Proper preparation ensures a more efficient project and reduces common problems such as water leaks or damage to your home’s exterior.
Identify the Type of Outdoor Faucet
Standard Spigot
A standard spigot is the most common type of outdoor faucet. It is easy to recognize with its basic design and a single handle for controlling both hot and cold water. These faucets are typically made of brass, stainless steel, or galvanized steel. The standard spigot is not frost-proof, so these are best used in areas that don’t experience freezing temperatures.
They might include features like:
- A hose bib connection
- A threaded stem
- A vacuum breaker to prevent backflow
- Heavy Brass Construction
- Neoprene seal disc
- Convenient notched flange for stable installation
- 3/4″ hose thread outlet
Frost-Proof Faucet
Frost-Proof Faucets or Frost-Free Faucets are designed specifically for colder climates. They are also known as sillcocks in some regions. These faucets have a longer stem that extends into the interior of the building to keep water away from the exterior wall, preventing freezing.
They usually have a vacuum breaker, which is a safety feature to help prevent backflow. Here are some characteristics of a frost-proof faucet:
- A longer stem (typical lengths: 4-14 inches)
- A vacuum breaker for anti-backflow protection
- A single handle for water flow control
- A frost-resistant design
Ball Valve Faucet
A ball valve faucet is another type of outdoor faucet that is known for its durability and simple operation. These faucets use a ball valve system that provides a watertight seal when the handle is turned, making them less prone to leaks and wear over time. They are commonly used for high-pressure water applications, like garden hoses or irrigation systems.
Ball valve faucets often have:
- A rotary lever handle
- A ball valve system for watertight sealing
- Brass or stainless steel construction for durability
- Compatibility with high-pressure water systems
- 3/4″ MIP inlet
- Quarter turn for easy operation
- Ball valve design for reliability
- Full port for maximum flow
Prepare for Faucet Replacement
Gather the Necessary Tools and Materials
Before starting any project, it’s important to gather all the necessary tools and materials. For a DIY outdoor faucet replacement, you will need the following items:
- Replacement faucet: Choose a compatible faucet for your water pipe system, and consider a frost-free faucet for added convenience in cold climates.
- Pipe wrench: This tool will assist in removing and tightening connections during the project.
- Adjustable wrench: To manipulate various parts and fasteners.
- Plumber’s tape: Useful for sealing pipe threads and ensuring a leak-free connection.
- Curb key (if necessary): A specialized tool for turning off the main water supply at the curb, typically used when a local shutoff valve is not present.
Locate the Shut-Off Valve
Before beginning the faucet replacement process, it’s crucial to locate the shut-off valve to prevent water from flowing through the pipes during the project. Here are the steps to follow:
- Water pipe: Identify the water pipe that feeds the outdoor faucet.
- Local shut-off valve: Look for a nearby shut-off valve, usually located inside your home, garage, or crawlspace, along the same water pipe.
- Turn off the water: Using your hand or a wrench, gently turn the shut-off valve clockwise until it’s completely closed.
- Test the faucet: Turn on the outdoor faucet to drain any remaining water, and confirm the water supply is off before proceeding.
If you cannot locate a shut-off valve near the faucet’s water pipe or if it’s inaccessible, you may need to shut off the main water supply. Use a curb key to turn off the main water valve at the curb, or consult a professional for assistance.
Remove the Old Faucet
Disconnect the Faucet
Before starting the process, make sure the water supply is shut off. Locate the valve controlling the water supply to the outdoor faucet, usually found in the basement or inside near the point where the faucet is connected to the pipe. Turn the valve clockwise to shut off the supply. Now, drain any remaining water by opening the faucet and allowing the water to flow out completely.
Next, disconnect the hose from the faucet. If it’s stuck, use a pair of pliers to gently twist it counterclockwise to remove it. It’s crucial to avoid causing damage to the hose or faucet threads.
Unscrew and Extract the Faucet
Start by using a pipe cutter or a hacksaw to remove any corrosion or debris around the faucet’s base. Make sure you wear safety goggles and gloves during this process. Once the area is clean, you can proceed with unscrewing the faucet.
To unscrew the faucet, first, remove the screws holding it in place. Then, locate the bonnet nut, which will also need to be unscrewed. Be sure to use a wrench or pliers that fit properly and twist counterclockwise to avoid damaging the threads.
While removing the old faucet, carefully inspect it. Check for a washer or other components that might be the source of the leaky outdoor faucet. If possible, repair the leaky components before deciding to replace the entire unit.
When the bonnet nut is removed, gently pull out the faucet, taking care not to leave any debris inside the pipe. You can use a pipe cutter or hacksaw to ensure a smooth extraction. At this point, you have successfully removed the old faucet and are ready to install a new one.
Install the New Faucet
Attach the New Faucet to the Water Pipe
Before attaching the new faucet, make sure to apply plumber’s tape to the male threads of the water pipe. This will help create a watertight seal. Next, connect the new faucet to the water pipe by carefully twisting it in a clockwise direction. Be sure to tighten it securely without over-tightening, which may cause damage to the threads.
Secure the Faucet to the Mounting Surface
Once the faucet is connected to the water pipe, secure it to the mounting surface using the provided hardware. This process may vary depending on the type of faucet or mounting surface (wood, concrete, or brick). Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper installation. Here are some general guidelines:
- For a wooden surface, pre-drill holes and use wood screws to attach the faucet flange.
- For a concrete or brick surface, use masonry anchors or screws.
After securing the faucet to the mounting surface, open the water shutoff valve to check for leaks. If any leaks are present, slightly tighten the connection or apply more plumber’s tape to create a better seal. Your new outdoor faucet should now be installed and ready for use.