Replacing an outdoor spigot can be a tricky DIY project, so many homeowners opt to hire a professional plumber to get the job done right. But how much does it cost to have a plumber replace an outdoor faucet? Here is a detailed overview of the typical costs involved.
Factors That Influence Plumber Spigot Replacement Costs
Several key factors impact how much a plumber will charge for an outdoor spigot installation or replacement project:
- Location of the spigot – Spigots on the front of the house are easier to access and therefore cheaper than spigots on the back or side of the house that require more work to access.
- Spigot type – Basic garden spigots are cheaper to replace than freeze-proof or frost-free anti-siphon models.
- Valve access – If the shutoff valve is easily accessible, replacement is quicker. Inaccessible valves add labor time and costs.
- Additional repairs needed – Replacing worn washers, valves or pipes will increase project costs.
- Plumber’s hourly rate – This can range from $45 to $150+ per hour, depending on experience.
- Time/materials – Simple replacements take 1-2 hours while complex projects take longer.
- Weekend/emergency fees – Expect to pay a premium for same-day or weekend service.
With all these variables, it’s best to get an estimate specific to your project. But here is an overview of typical price ranges.
Cost to Replace Outdoor Spigot
Basic spigot replacement: $150 – $350
- Assuming easy access to spigot and valves and no repairs needed beyond the spigot itself, most plumbers will charge $150 – $250 to remove and replace an outdoor spigot.
- If valves are hard to reach or modifications are needed to pipe fittings, prices go up to $250 – $350.
High-end spigot: $200 – $500
- Upgrading to a high-quality frost-free anti-siphon spigot costs $200 to $500 with labor.
- The spigot itself will range from $50 to $250, with the rest of the price being labor.
Additional valve replacement: $150 – $350
- If replacing a leaky or worn out shutoff valve is required, add another $150 – $350.
- Simple gate valve replacements take around 1 hour. Replacing a frost-free sillcock valve is more complex.
Emergency or weekend: $250 – $550
- Emergency spigot repairs cost $100 to $200 more than standard weekdays.
- Nights, weekends and holidays carry a premium of at least $150 per hour.
Cost to re-route spigot pipes: $500 – $2,000
- Moving the location of an outdoor spigot requires re-plumbing pipes.
- Simple reroutes start around $500 but extensive changes run $1,000 – $2,000 or more.
What Impacts Plumber Hourly Rates?
A plumber’s hourly service fee depends on several factors:
- Plumbing experience – Master plumbers charge $75 to $150+ per hour. Apprentices often cost $45-$65 per hour.
- Company size – Solo plumbers normally have lower rates while larger firms charge more.
- License level – Master vs. journeyman license status affects rates.
- Location – Hourly prices are higher in expensive urban areas vs. rural regions.
- Materials – Parts and supplies are either included or add to hourly fees.
- Travel fees – Companies located farther away tack on trip fees.
- After-hours – Emergency or weekend calls carry premium pricing.
Questions to Ask Your Plumber About Spigot Replacement
Before hiring a plumber, ask detailed questions to understand what is all involved:
- Do you charge by project or hourly? What is your base labor rate?
- Do you assess a separate travel fee if located far away?
- Are parts/materials included or extra? What brands do you use?
- How long will the spigot replacement take start to finish?
- Will you also replace the shutoff valve or other worn parts?
- Do I need a permit? Will you pull the permit or do I need to?
- Do you charge extra for evenings, weekends or emergency calls?
- Do you offer any warranties or guarantees on your work?
Conclusion
The cost to replace an outdoor spigot often ranges from $150 to $500, depending on the spigot type, valve access, repairs needed and your plumber’s hourly rate. More complex projects involving re-routing pipes or extensive modifications can run $1,000 to $2,000 or more. Always get an itemized estimate for your specific project, and ask plumbers detailed questions before scheduling service. With some smart planning and research, you can find an affordable plumber to install a new outdoor spigot at your home.