Replacing an outdoor faucet can seem daunting, but with the right tools and a bit of plumbing know-how, it’s a straightforward DIY project. An outdoor faucet, also known as a hose bib or sillcock, allows you to connect a garden hose or other accessories to an outdoor water supply. Over time, outdoor faucets can become damaged from exposure to weather, leaks can develop, or you may want to upgrade to a new hands-free or frost-proof model. Replacing an old, leaky, or outdated outdoor faucet with a fresh one is a satisfying DIY task that can be accomplished in just a few hours.
What You’ll Need
Before starting, make sure you have all the necessary supplies on hand:
- New outdoor faucet that matches your existing plumbing connections
- Adjustable wrench
- Pipe wrench
- Teflon tape
- Rag
- Bucket
- Flashlight
- Silicone caulk and caulk gun
- Screwdriver
- Access panel or cover plate for indoor shutoff valves
Turning Off the Water Supply
The first step is to turn off the water supply to the outdoor faucet you’ll be replacing.
Locate the shutoff valve for the outdoor faucet inside your home. It’s usually near an exterior wall in the basement, crawlspace, or garage. The shutoff valve allows you to stop water from flowing to the outdoor faucet.
If you don’t have an indoor shutoff valve, you’ll need to turn off the main water supply to your entire home. The main shutoff is usually located where the main water line enters your home.
Once you’ve located the correct shutoff valve, turn it clockwise until it’s fully closed. Confirm the water is off by turning on the outdoor faucet to release any built-up pressure. The flow should stop completely once the water is shut off.
Shutting Off the Main Water Supply
If you don’t have a dedicated shutoff valve, you’ll need to shut off the main water supply:
- Locate the main water shutoff valve near where the main water line enters your home. It will likely be near your water meter.
- Use a large slotted or adjustable wrench to turn the valve clockwise until it stops.
- Turn on the lowest outdoor faucet to release pressure.
- Check that the water has been fully shut off throughout the home. You may need to open additional faucets.
- Once the water is off, you can start replacing the outdoor faucet.
Locating the Dedicated Shutoff Valve
If you have a dedicated shutoff valve:
- Check near exterior walls in the basement, crawlspace, or garage to locate the shutoff valve.
- Look for a gate valve or ball valve on the water line leading to the outdoor faucet.
- Verify it’s the correct valve by turning it off and checking that the outdoor faucet no longer has flow.
- With the water off, you can now remove the old outdoor faucet.
Removing the Old Faucet
With the water supply shut off, you can start removing the old outdoor faucet:
Step 1: Disconnect the Faucet
Use an adjustable wrench to loosen and disconnect the coupling nut that connects the faucet to the outdoor water line. Unscrew the mounting screws or nuts to detach the faucet from the exterior wall.
Step 2: Remove Faucet & Pipe
Place a bucket under the faucet to catch any remaining water. Use a pipe wrench to unthread the faucet tailpiece from the elbow joint inside the wall. Carefully pull the old faucet and tailpiece away.
Step 3: Clean Pipe Ends
Use a dry rag to wipe down the exposed pipe ends sticking out from the wall. Remove any old plumber’s tape and debris. Scrub the pipe threads clean so they are ready for the new connection.
Installing the New Faucet
After removing the old unit, it’s time to install the new replacement outdoor faucet:
Step 1: Apply Plumber’s Tape
Wrap plumber’s Teflon tape clockwise 3-4 times around the clean pipe threads where you’ll connect the new tailpiece. This helps create a tight seal.
Step 2: Attach Tailpiece
Thread on the new tailpiece by hand, then use a pipe wrench to tighten. Don’t over-tighten. The Teflon tape will help prevent leaks.
Step 3: Mount Faucet
Place the new faucet shank through the hole in the exterior wall. Fasten the faucet with the included mounting screws or nuts.
Step 4: Connect Water Lines
Use an adjustable wrench to tighten the coupling nut over the end tailpiece. This secures the faucet. Slowly turn the water back on and check for leaks.
Step 5: Seal gaps
Apply silicone caulk around the base of the faucet to seal any gaps between the new faucet and wall. Smooth the caulk with your finger. Let dry completely.
Testing for Leaks
With the new faucet installed, the final step is to check for leaks:
- Turn the shutoff valve back on slowly to allow water to flow to the new faucet.
- Look carefully for drips or leaks at all connections. Tighten nuts or valves if needed.
- Turn on the outdoor faucet and let the water run for a few minutes. Check for leaks while operating.
- Turn the faucet off. Check below for any drips or wetness over the next few hours.
Slow leaks may take time to appear. Let the faucet sit overnight and verify again in the morning that no leaks have formed. If a leak is found, turn off the water supply and examine the connection points to reseat joints or tighten parts as needed.
Troubleshooting Outdoor Faucet Replacement
While an outdoor faucet replacement is generally straightforward, issues can come up. Here are some potential problems and solutions:
Old faucet won’t unscrew? Use penetrating oil to help loosen the stuck connecting points. Allow it to soak in for 15-20 minutes before trying again to unthread the tailpiece or coupling nut.
Leaky valve connections? Make sure there is sufficient plumber’s tape and you are tightening joints adequately with wrenches. Don’t overtighten. Check for cracked washers.
Low water flow? Make sure the shutoff valves are fully open. Disconnect and inspect the faucet screen for debris blocking flow. Consider replacing old galvanized piping.
Loose faucet? Tighten the mounting bolts or screws fully. Seal gaps with silicone caulk. Add insulation around the shank to stabilize the faucet. Consider installing an insulated frost-proof model.
No water at all? Verify the shutoff valves are on and water supply is flowing correctly to the valve. Check for kinked or broken supply lines. Test the backflow preventer if equipped.
Preventing Outdoor Faucet Damage
To maximize the life of your new outdoor faucet and reduce wear and tear:
- Disconnect hoses during cold weather to avoid freeze damage.
- Install an insulated faucet cover before winter.
- Position the faucet on a wall facing away from prevailing winds and storms.
- Maintain caulk seals and check for leaks to prevent water intrusion.
- Drain and bleed lines before winter by shutting off the water, opening the faucet, and letting the valve drain.
Taking steps to protect your outdoor faucet from the elements will help extend its life and performance. Properly maintaining seals and draining water lines seasonally can prevent many common faucet issues.
FAQs About Replacing an Outdoor Faucet
What are signs I need to replace an outdoor faucet?
You may need to replace your outdoor faucet if you notice these issues:
- Water leaks when the faucet is on or off
- Drips or seeps around the base of the faucet
- Corroded or cracked parts
- Significant decrease in water pressure
- Faucet no longer turns on at all
- Loose faucet that wiggles when operating it
- Not able to fully turn off the water flow
How do I choose a new outdoor faucet?
Consider the following when selecting a replacement outdoor faucet:
- Matching your existing plumbing connections (thread size, length)
- Anti-siphon design to prevent backflow
- Finish that resists rust and corrosion
- Insulated or frost-proof for cold climates
- Hands-free operation if desired
- Solid brass or stainless steel metal construction
- Smooth handle that turns easily
- Required length to fit your exterior wall
- Faucet style that fits your home décor
Can I replace an outdoor faucet myself?
Most homeowners can replace an outdoor faucet on their own provided they are comfortable shutting off water lines and have the necessary plumbing skills. Make sure to turn off water supply, remove the old unit safely, and install the new faucet properly without leaks. Seek professional help if the connections are complicated, or you are unable to complete the job.
Does outdoor faucet replacement require soldering?
Replacing a standard outdoor faucet typically does not require any soldering, just basic hand tools. The faucet tailpiece and coupling nut allow you to screw on the new faucet using pipe thread sealant. Soldering could be needed if you replace old galvanized piping with copper or need to modify supply line connections.
How do I waterproof an outdoor faucet installation?
Prevent outdoor faucet leaks by:
- Wrapping plumber’s Teflon tape on all threaded joints
- Tightening the coupling nut and tailpiece with wrenches
- Sealing around the faucet base with silicone caulk
- Insulating exposed pipes and valves
- Using a backflow preventer
- Selecting a frost-proof sillcock faucet
How much does it cost to replace an outdoor faucet?
If tackling it as a DIY project, replacing an outdoor faucet costs $20-$60 for the faucet plus around $10 for supplies like Teflon tape and caulk. Hiring a plumber usually costs $180-$350 depending on the specific faucet installation. Complex jobs or long pipe runs can drive the price up further.
Conclusion
Replacing an outdoor water faucet is a worthwhile DIY project that you can tackle in an afternoon if you have plumbing experience. With proper planning and care, you can install a new outdoor faucet yourself and save the cost of hiring a plumber. Make sure to select the right replacement faucet, turn off the water supply, remove the old unit safely, connect the new one following best practices, and thoroughly test for leaks. Your patience will pay off when you complete the job successfully and can enjoy your upgraded outdoor faucet.