How to Change an Outdoor Spigot: A Step-by-Step Guide: 1 Minute to Fix Your Leaky Outdoor Faucet

Changing an outdoor spigot is a common DIY home maintenance task that can help prevent leaks and improve water flow for your garden or outdoor cleaning needs. With just a few tools and some preparation, you can replace a faulty or leaky spigot in under an hour. Here’s a step-by-step guide to walk you through the process:

1. Gather Your Tools and Materials
2. You’ll need an adjustable wrench, pipe thread tape (Teflon tape), a new spigot (hose bib), and possibly a wire brush.
3. Shut Off the Water Supply
4. Turn off the water supply to the spigot. This is usually done by closing the interior shutoff valve that controls flow to the outdoor faucet.
5. Open the Spigot
6. Turn on the outdoor spigot to drain any remaining water in the pipe and relieve pressure.
7. Remove the Old Spigot
8. Use your adjustable wrench to loosen and unscrew the old spigot from the pipe or fitting. If it’s stuck, a little gentle back-and-forth can help avoid damaging the pipe.
9. Prepare the Pipe Threads
10. Clean the threads with a wire brush. Wrap new pipe thread tape securely around the threads in a clockwise direction for a watertight seal.
11. Install the New Spigot
12. Screw the new spigot onto the pipe by hand, then tighten further with your wrench (being careful not to over-tighten and crack the fitting).
13. Restore Water and Check for Leaks
14. Turn the water supply back on and inspect your installation for any leaks. Tighten or reseal as needed.

As a designer, I always recommend selecting an outdoor spigot that not only complements the style of your exterior but also fits seamlessly into your organization of outdoor spaces. Planning these exterior upgrades can be even more cohesive when integrating them into your broader home designer vision, ensuring both function and aesthetic are top priorities in your overall design plan.

Tips 1:

Consider installing an anti-siphon spigot to prevent water from flowing backward into your home’s plumbing, especially if you use hoses for irrigation or fountains. These models are code-required in many areas and add an extra layer of protection.

FAQ

Q: What is an outdoor spigot?

A: An outdoor spigot, also known as a hose bib, is a faucet located on the exterior of a house that provides water for gardening, washing, or irrigation purposes.

Q: Can I change an outdoor spigot myself?

A: Yes, with basic plumbing tools and some DIY knowledge, most homeowners can replace an outdoor spigot themselves.

Q: Do I need to shut off water before changing a spigot?

A: Absolutely. Always shut off the water supply to the spigot before beginning repairs to avoid water damage and ensure safety.

Q: Why is my outdoor spigot leaking after replacement?

A: Leaks can occur if the threads weren’t cleaned properly, the tape wasn’t applied correctly, or the fitting wasn’t tightened enough. Disassemble, clean, and reseal as needed.

Q: Should I use Teflon tape on the spigot threads?

A: Yes, wrapping the threads with Teflon tape helps create a watertight seal and prevents leaks at the connection.