You will not think about an outdoor faucet spigot until it starts leaking. An outdoor spigot can be used for washing the car or watering plants in the garden. A damaged spigot can waste a significant amount of water and lead to costly repairs if left unaddressed. In this blog, we will cover everything you need to know about outdoor faucet spigots and how to replace them safely.
Understanding The Outdoor Faucet Spigot
An outdoor faucet spigot is the water outlet attached to the outside of your home. This outlet connects your home’s indoor plumbing with the outdoor plumbing, making water accessible outdoors through a garden hose. Over time, exposure to weather, mineral buildup, and normal wear and tear can cause leaks, rust, or water flow issues. That’s when it’s time to replace the outdoor faucet spigot. In an emergency, Parzival Plumbing provides 24-hour emergency plumbing services to replace an outdoor faucet spigot in Orange County, ensuring you don’t have to wait to get the job done.
Common Signs You Need To Replace Your Outdoor Faucet Spigot
Before replacing the spigot, make sure the issue isn’t with other plumbing parts. Here are some common signs that show your faucet spigot needs to be replaced:
Constant Dripping – Even when the faucet is off, water continues to drip. This usually means the internal washer or valve is worn out.
Leaking Around The Handle – If water is leaking from the handle, the packing nut or internal stem might be damaged.
Cracked or Corroded Spigot – Outdoor spigots made of metal can wear over time due to freezing temperatures or corrosion, resulting in cracks or corrosion.
Weak Water Flow – If your spigot is slow and the pressure throughout the house system is normal, it may be due to dirt, debris, or corrosion, or it may be broken and should be replaced.
Frozen or Stuck Spigot – If your faucet does not turn easily and is stuck after a cold winter, then it will most likely need to be replaced.
Spigot Outdoor Faucet Types
Before your outdoor faucet spigot replacement, it is crucial to identify the type of spigot present in your house. Identifying the appropriate replacement will help you find something compatible and ensure proper durability. Here are the main spigot outdoor faucet types:
Standard (Non-Frost-Free) Spigot
This is the traditional style spigot for homes in warmer climates. The valve is located close to the handle of the spigot, which means water remains in the portion of the pipe exposed to the outside air. This type is easy to install, inexpensive, and simple to use, but is subject to freezing in the winter months.
Frost-Free (Freeze-Proof) Spigot
Similar to standard spigot types but designed for homes and areas of freezing conditions. The valve seat is located several inches inside the wall of the house, where the temperature is warmer. When the valve is closed, the water drains out of the outer portion of the spigot to prevent freezing and the expansion of water turning to ice that can cause the spigot to break or burst.
Anti-Siphon Spigot
Designed with a vacuum breaker built in to prevent backflow of contaminated or dirty water into clean water lines. Anti-siphon spigots are required by plumbing codes for safety purposes.
Quarter-Turn Ball Valve Spigot
Operated by a lever handle, the quarter-turn ball valve spigot uses a ball valve for on/off control. Quarter-turn ball valve spigots are extremely durable, reliable, and resistant to wear and tear.
Step-by-Step Guide To Replace Outdoor Faucet Spigot
An outdoor faucet spigot replacement in Lido Isle is easy if you follow the right steps. Let’s discuss the replacement process step-by-step:
Turn Off the Water Supply
Before replacing the old spigot, shut off the valve that supplies water to the outdoors. This valve can be in your basement or utility room. You have to turn it clockwise to close it completely. If you cannot find that valve, then shut off the main water supply.
Drain the Line
Open the outdoor spigot and let the water that remains in the pipe drain out. You may also open an indoor faucet close to the outdoor spigot to help release air pressure in the line and ensure all water drains from it.
Remove the Old Spigot
Use a wrench to loosen the old spigot. If the old spigot is corroded, spray a little bit of penetrating oil to loosen it and wait a few minutes before trying again. Be gentle while connecting the pipe inside the wall. Once the old spigot is loose, you can unscrew and remove it completely.
Clean the Threads
Inspect the threads on the pipe for any debris or corrosion. Wipe the threads clean with a cloth to ensure a watertight fit for the new outdoor faucet spigot.
Prepare the New Spigot
Get your new spigot ready for installation. Wrap the threaded end of your new spigot about 3 times with plumber’s tape or Teflon tape in a clockwise direction to help prevent leaks. You can also apply a layer of pipe thread sealant in addition for extra reassurance against leaks.
Install the New Spigot
Take care when you screw the new spigot hand-tight before securing it with a wrench. Be careful not to over-tighten it, as this can crack the pipe or fitting. If the new spigot is a frost-free spigot, angle it slightly downward so the water drains out when turned off.
Turn the Water Back On
Once you have the new outdoor faucet spigot, securely turn the water supply back on and check for any leaks at the connection point. If there is a small leak, tighten the spigot a little bit more or apply Teflon tape and reinstall.
Test the Faucet
Open the spigot fully and let the water run for several seconds. Let the water flow smoothly without any distortion, and check that it doesn’t drip once you turn it off.
Why Choose Parzival Plumbing?
At Parzival Plumbing, we provide high-quality plumbing services. Whether you need to replace an outdoor faucet spigot or want to upgrade your plumbing throughout your home, our expert plumbers provide efficient and long-lasting solutions. Here is what makes us different:
- Licensed and experienced plumbers.
- Upfront pricing with no hidden fees.
- Same-day plumbing service for emergencies.
- Experience in residential and outdoor plumbing services.
We specialize in outdoor faucet spigot replacement in Orange County to ensure your plumbing works efficiently year-round.
Final Thoughts
Replacing an outdoor faucet spigot is a straightforward yet essential maintenance that can avoid water waste, enhance the plumbing efficiency of your home, and save you from future repairs. By following this guide, you can likely complete most replacements on your own. If you are unsure and require professional help, Parzival Plumbing is just a call away. Our team of professional plumbers has the experience and expertise necessary to replace your outdoor faucet spigot in Newport Beach to the highest quality standard and ensure you never have to worry about water access outside.
