Replacing an outdoor water faucet can seem daunting, but with the right tools and a bit of plumbing know-how, it’s a straightforward DIY project. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the entire process of replacing an outdoor faucet, from picking the right replacement to installing it correctly.

What You’ll Need

• Adjustable wrench
• Pipe wrench
• Teflon tape
• Replacement outdoor faucet
• Silicone caulk

Turn Off the Water Supply

The first step is to turn off the water supply to the outdoor faucet. Locate the shut-off valve for the faucet, usually found near where the water line enters the house. Use the adjustable wrench to turn the valve clockwise until it’s completely closed. Opening any outdoor faucets to release pressure in the line.

Remove the Old Faucet

Now that the water is off, use a pipe wrench to loosen and unscrew the mounting nuts connecting the old faucet. You may need to wiggle the faucet back and forth to break it free. Once it’s detached, pull the old faucet and supply lines out of the exterior wall. Inspect the opening for any cracks or damage.

Install Supply Lines

Attach the flexible supply lines to the replacement faucet according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Make sure the hot and cold lines are connected properly. Apply Teflon tape to the threads to prevent leaks. Tighten the connections securely with a wrench but be careful not to overtighten.

Mount the New Faucet

Place the new faucet into the exterior wall opening. From inside the house, thread the mounting nuts over the supply lines and tighten them by hand until snug. Then use a wrench to tighten them a quarter turn more. Don’t overtighten, as this can crack the faucet housing.

Seal the Faucet

Caulk around the new faucet with silicone caulk. Smooth out the caulk with your finger, filling any gaps or cracks. This prevents water seepage into the wall interior. Allow the caulk to dry completely before using the faucet.

Turn the Water Back On

The final step is to turn the water supply back on. Turn on the shut-off valve slowly and check for leaks. Tighten any connections further if needed. Once no leaks are present, turn on the outdoor faucet to flush out any debris. Your new outdoor water faucet is ready to use!

Choosing the Right Replacement Faucet

When selecting a replacement outdoor faucet, there are a few important factors to consider:

Material

• Brass – Most durable, resistant to corrosion. Pricier but lasts longest.
• Plastic – More affordable but prone to breaking over time. Go for reinforced plastic.
• Stainless steel – Corrosion-resistant, sturdy but can discolor.

Valve Type

• Compression – Traditional shut-off valve, easy to repair.
• Ball – Allows smooth handle control, single lever operation.
• Cartridge – Lasting drip-free seal, handles tend to be large.

Special Features

• Anti-siphon – Prevents contaminated water from entering supply.
• Backflow prevention – Another contaminant blocking system.
• Insulated spout – Prevents freezing in cold climates.
• Locking mechanism – Secures faucet handle to prevent tampering.

Faucet Size

Measure the existing faucet and hole size before purchasing a replacement. Standard sizes are 3/4″ or 1″ but can vary. Getting an exact match ensures an easy installation.

How to Maintain Your Outdoor Faucet

Investing in an outdoor faucet replacement also means taking steps to keep it in good working order. Here are some tips for ongoing maintenance:

Inspect Annually

Check your outdoor faucets each season for leaks, hard-to-turn knobs, or lime buildup. Catching issues early allows for easy repairs.

Replace Washers

If you spot drips or leaks, the faucet washers are likely worn and need replacement. Turn off water, disconnect supply lines, and swap in new washers.

Install Supply Shut-Offs

Installing shut-off valves on the supply lines allows you to easily shut off water to the faucet for repairs.

Drain for Winter

In cold climates, drain and shut off outdoor faucets in winter to avoid freeze damage. Open the valve and allow residual water to drain out.

Use Hose Bib Covers

For extra freeze protection, insulated faucet covers that wrap around the valve are available. Remove them in spring.

Clean Faucet Screens

Remove and clean out any debris from the faucet filter screens annually to maintain water flow.

Replacing an aging outdoor faucet keeps your water access functional for using hoses, power washing, or filling pools and hot tubs. By selecting the right faucet and taking care of it properly, your new outdoor faucet will provide years of reliable service.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are outdoor faucets made of?

Outdoor faucets are usually constructed from brass, stainless steel, or plastic due to their weather-resistant properties. Solid brass is the most durable material while plastic is more prone to damage.

How do I remove an old rusted faucet?

Penetrating oils can help loosen rusted connections. Allow it to soak in for a few hours. Tap lightly with a hammer to jar it loose. Use vice grips or Channellocks for a better grip on corroded faucets.

What temperature rating do I need?

Look for a faucet with at least a 40°F/4°C temperature rating for cold weather resistance. The highest ratings are under 0°F/-18°C for extreme cold climates.

How do I stop my hose bib from freezing in winter?

To prevent freeze damage, drain water from the line, detach hoses, and shut off the interior water supply valve before winter. Installing freeze-proof faucets is another option.

Why does my outdoor faucet leak from the spout?

A spout leak is typically caused by worn out rubber washers inside the faucet. Replacing the washers with new matching ones will usually fix a leaky outdoor spigot.

Can I repair a leaky compression faucet?

Yes, compression faucets have repair kits available to fix drips and leaks. Kits include replacement washers, O-rings, valve seats, and other common wear parts.

Are push-fit connections up to code?

Push-fit supply lines are permitted by plumbing codes. Ensure the fittings are listed to ASTM standards for potable water use. Use inserts for larger tubing sizes.

Should I use Teflon tape or pipe dope?

Either can provide a watertight seal on threaded connections. Tape works on male threads while dope is better for female threads. Don’t use both together.

How often should outdoor faucets be replaced?

Outdoor faucets have a lifespan of 15-20 years typically. Signs it needs replacement include frequent leaks, difficult operation, and corrosion damage.

How much does it cost to replace an outdoor faucet?

The costs range from $50-150 for the faucet, plus $200-550 for professional installation. DIY replacement cuts costs but requires plumbing skill.

Conclusion

Replacing an outdoor water faucet keeps your home’s exterior water access functioning properly. While it requires some plumbing skills, it is a project a homeowner can take on with proper preparation. The key steps are shutting off water, removing the old fixture, installing new supply lines and the faucet, sealing with caulk, and testing for leaks before use.

With some basic tools and materials, and following the steps outlined above, you can successfully replace an aging outdoor spigot. Taking the time to maintain and properly winterize your new faucet will keep it in good working order for years of use to come. Investing in a high quality, durable replacement faucet is worth the extra investment long-term.