Outdoor faucets are vital plumbing fixtures for homes for washing cars, watering lawns, and giving potted plants a drink. The external water faucet, unlike indoor faucets, must be strong enough to withstand the elements while serving the indoor needs of a home.
Most importantly, the outdoor faucet must be able to keep water out of your home when it’s not in use.
There are two types of outdoor faucets: frost-free and freeze-proof. Frost-free faucets have a long stem that extends into the house. This design prevents water from sitting in the pipe and freezing during cold weather. Freeze-proof faucets also have a long stem, but instead of extending into the house, it goes into a box buried underground. This design is less likely to develop leaks.
When choosing an outdoor faucet, it’s important to select one that will match the style of your home. You’ll also want to consider the climate where you live and the type of water pressure you have. Be sure to read the instructions carefully before installation and contact a professional if you have any questions.
With a little bit of care, your outdoor faucet will provide years of trouble-free use.
There are a few things you can do to maintain your outdoor faucet and keep it looking like new. First, always use a hose washer when attaching a hose. This will prevent scratches and wear. Second, avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasives when cleaning the faucet.
These can damage the finish. Instead, clean it with soapy water and a soft cloth. Finally, if you have a freeze-proof faucet, be sure to drain it before winter arrives.
Types of Outdoor Faucets
The types of outdoor faucets available vary depending on the climate and the needs of the homeowner. Discover each type in the following sections.
Spigot
By turning the handle to the left, the traditional outdoor faucet opens and closes its compression valve. The compression valve opens gradually with each turn of the handle, allowing for precise control of the flow of water.
It is easy to maintain since the stem is located below the handle. Water must be shut off to the spigot during the winter in order to prevent an ice buildup inside the stem and causing damage to the faucet.
Frost-Free
A frost-free faucet has a stem that extends 12 inches into the home’s plumbing system. As a result of this design, the outdoor faucet’s water supply is not shut off in the wintertime because water will not freeze inside the faucet. Due to the longer stem, the water will run for a couple of seconds longer after shutting off than on a traditional faucet.
Ball Valve
An inside hole is located in the brass ball of this type of faucet. Water passes through the hole and out of the faucet when the handle is in the open position. Using a quarter turn of the handle, ball valve faucets fully open the valve. Water flow rate can be controlled by turning on or off the faucet quickly, but the design makes it difficult to turn the water on or off quickly.
Yard Hydrants
There is one major difference between yard hydrants and other outdoor faucets: they are not permanently attached to the home. Instead of sitting on a ground-based pipe, they sit on top of a 3- to 4-foot-long pipe.
The design of this outdoor faucet allows the faucet to be mounted in a garden or another area of the yard without needing to be mounted on an exterior wall of the house. Usually, yard hydrants are located about 2 feet underground, below the frost line. The hydrant requires extension plumbing from the house to the location.
Anti-Siphon
Water can be sucked back into the water supply when the pressure in your home’s plumbing changes. Garden hoses that sit in mud puddles when the pressure drops can contaminate the water in your home.
You can protect your home’s water from contamination by installing an anti-siphon faucet to prevent water from being drawn back into the house through the outdoor faucet.
What to Consider When Choosing the Best Outdoor Faucet
In this article, we will discuss the crucial factors to consider when buying an outdoor faucet, such as construction quality, sizing, design, and installation.
Material and Maintenance
Metal outdoor plumbing fixtures are durable and resistant to corrosion and rust like their indoor counterparts. Outdoor faucets are made from rugged solid brass or galvanized steel capable of withstanding extreme weather conditions. In contrast, indoor faucets are made from chrome or stainless steel finishes with brass interior components. A rubber stopper is usually used when a compression faucet is closed to create a watertight seal.
It is necessary to replace these stoppers every few years to prevent leaks due to failure. The stem and rubber washers are therefore easily accessible with simple tools on more outdoor faucets.
Size and Water Pressure
There are two sizes of outdoor faucets: 11.2 inches and 34.4 inches. Make sure that the faucet you purchase matches the size of the pipes inside your home. Adding an adapter to a 3-4-inch garden bibb will not increase the outdoor faucet’s water pressure, even if the bibb is larger than the supply line.
Design
Choose an outdoor faucet based on the application. If you live in a climate that regularly experiences subfreezing temperatures in the wintertime, purchasing an all-year-round frost-free faucet is a wise investment. A garden hose can be attached to an anti-siphon faucet. When turning on and off water quickly is a necessity, ball valve faucets are ideal.
Outdoor faucets featuring ornamental designs that add aesthetics to a backyard garden can be found in addition to backyard spigots with a utilitarian design. Nature-inspired embellishments are carved into these designer spigots.
Extra Features
The features of an outdoor faucet differ from those of an indoor faucet. It is possible to use frost-free faucets throughout the winter without risking freezing. Using a garden hose could potentially contaminate the water supply in the home when anti-siphon faucets are installed. These faucets are equipped with a vacuum lock to prevent water from flowing back into the home’s plumbing.
Installation
With the appropriate adapter (sold separately), most outdoor faucets can be connected to copper, PVC, or galvanized steel plumbing. Several outdoor faucets are available with push-to-connect fittings, which enable quick and easy installation.
The Best of the Best
These are the most popular outdoor faucets by type, arranged in the following list. Handles on these faucets make them easy to operate, and their brass construction makes them resistant to harsh weather conditions.
7 Best Outdoor Faucet Reviews In 2022
1. SharkBite 24632LF Hose Bibb
An old outdoor faucet can be easily replaced with this simple hose bibb from SharkBite thanks to its ease of installation and durability. The push-to-connect system is one of its most appealing features. SharkBite hose bibbs are simple to install by pushing them over existing pipes and locking them together. Soldering, glue, or clamping are not necessary with this design.
Pex, PVC, and PE-RT plumbing are compatible with SharkBite faucets. Changes in water pressure can be made easily by opening and closing the large blue valve handle. In order to access the stem for maintenance, you’ll need a standard plumber’s wrench. In order to prevent hose kinking, the faucet is angled at 45 degrees.
Product Specs:
- Type: Spigot
- Size: ½ inch or ¾ inch
- Handle: Handwheel
- An easy-to-install push-to-connect system makes installation a breeze
- Hose kinks can be prevented with an angle faucet
- Construction of solid brass is durable
- Siphoning is not prevented
2. EZ-FLO 20183 Hose Bibb
Hose bibbs from EZ-FLO make upgrading or replacing an outdoor faucet affordable. Zinc handles are attached to durable brass bodies in this spigot-style bibb. This faucet features a flared opening that directs water away from the home and prevents kinking of the hose.
With the proper fittings, the outdoor faucet can be connected to PVC, galvanized, or copper piping via its 34″ male pipe inlet. Changing the rubber washers on the stem is easy with a screwdriver and plumber’s wrench.
Product Specs:
- Type: Spigot
- Size: ½ inch or ¾ inch
- Handle: T-shaped
- Affordability
- Multi-material pipe compatibility
- Constructed of durable metal
- Cold weather can cause it to freeze
- Anti-siphoning is not present
3. Prier Products Frost Proof Wall Hydrant
A frost-resistant faucet from Prier Products will keep your faucet working even during the coldest winter months. This faucet has a 12-inch stem, which allows it to extend into climate-controlled areas, which makes it a freeze-proof outdoor faucet.
In winter, you won’t have to shut off the spigot with a cut-off valve since this design doesn’t require it. In order to prevent contamination of the water in the house, a siphon-preventing design is used.
With its large plastic handle, you can finely control the water pressure. Using a plumbing wrench, you can easily remove the handle assembly for maintenance. A satin nickel-plated angled flange keeps water away from the hole.
Product Specs:
- Type: Frost-free and anti-siphon
- Size: ½ inch or ¾ inch
- Handle: Hand wheel
- Design that prevents ice from forming and siphoning
- Handle with ergonomics
- Construction is nickel-plated to prevent corrosion
- Costly
4. American Valve M71HD Hose Bibb
Among the best outdoor water spigots on the market, this model from American Valve has a durable construction. The valve is easy to open and close thanks to its large T-shaped handle. Using the spacing nut beneath the handle of a plumber’s wrench, leaks and flow can be adjusted.
Garden hoses with extended threading offer a more secure, leak-free connection. When used with the appropriate adapter, the male end of the hose bibb can be used with a variety of pipe materials. A 12-inch and a 34-inch size are available for the American Valve Hose Bibb.
Product Specs:
- Type: Spigot
- Size: ½ inch or ¾ inch
- Handle: T-shaped
- The construction is made of heavy-gauge brass
- Handle shaped like a T
- Packing nut that can be adjusted
- Use at temperatures below freezing is not recommended
5. American Valve M71QT Hose Bibb
The American Valve hose bibb features a ball valve style for easy operation. Its large handle makes it ideal for valves attached to garden hoses with sprayers since it can be completely closed or opened with a quarter-turn twist. Compression-style faucets do not control water pressure as well.
Unlike compression-style faucets, this faucet has a large rubberized handle for easier operation, and heavy-gauge brass construction for a solid feel. This garden hose attachment is well suited to its slight downward angle. Maintaining the handle is made easy by a removable retaining nut. 344-inch and 1 12-inch sizes are available in the American Valve hose bibb.
Product Specs:
- Type: Ball valve
- Size: ½-inch or ¾-inch
- Handle: Lever
- The valve can be opened fully and closed quickly
- Constructed from sturdy brass
- For maintenance, it is easy to remove the retaining nut
- Having difficulty regulating water pressure
6. Homewerks Anti-Siphon Frost-Free Sill Cock
Its forged brass body sets it apart from other anti-siphon sill cocks due to its sturdy construction. A brass cap covers the Homewerks anti-siphon model, unlike other models that use plastic caps. The 12-inch length of this outdoor faucet ensures that the valve in the hose does not freeze in cold weather, so it can be used all year long.
Water pressure can be adjusted finely with the large plastic handle, while repairs can be performed by unscrewing a bolt behind the outlet. Inlet fittings fit 12 inches of plumbing, while outlets fit 34 inches of hoses.
Product Specs:
- Type: Anti-siphon frost-free
- Size: ½-inch or ¾-inch
- Handle: Handwheel
- Cap with an anti-siphoning surface made of bronze
- A 12-inch-long valve prevents frost from forming
- Handle with ergonomics
- Faucets with anti-siphons are more expensive
7. Toliwel Antique Brass Garden Outdoor Faucet
If you have a more sophisticated backyard, this Toliwel model may be a suitable option; however, a standard bibb faucet may be sufficient for most people. With its polished brass construction and curved lever handle, this faucet stands out from standard outdoor hose bibbs. This elegant spigot’s spout and apron have decorative etchings, making it the perfect choice for sophisticated backyard gardens.
Easily switch on and off the water with the large lever-style handle. With a quick-connect adapter, a garden hose can easily be attached and detached from a faucet that comes with an outdoor nozzle attachment.
Product Specs:
- Type: Ball valve
- Size: ½-inch
- Handle: Lever
- The design is attractive
- Constructed from polished brass
- Valve can be opened and closed easily with the handle
- Adapters must be attached to nozzles on the end of the garden hose
Frequently Asked Questions
How We Chose the Best Outdoor Faucets?
When weo dozen outdoor faucets. Since there are a variety of outdoor faucet types, we included entries for frost-free, anti-siphon, ball valves, spigots, and yard hydrants on our list. In each of these categories, we selected products with brass construction as being the most durable.
The stems of outdoor faucets should also be easily accessible so that they can be maintained periodically. Our selection of outdoor faucets includes handles that are easy to grasp, so the user can operate them easily.
Do you need a plumber to replace an outdoor faucet?
If you have a leaky or broken outdoor faucet, then you will likely need to hire a professional plumber to replace it. Outdoor faucets are subject to a lot of wear and tear and can be difficult to replace on your own. Plumbers will have the necessary tools and experience to properly install a new outdoor faucet.
The cost of replacing an outdoor faucet will vary depending on the type of faucet you need, as well as the complexity of the job. Generally, you can expect to pay between $100 and $200 for this type of repair. However, if your home has complex plumbing or if the job is particularly difficult, then the cost could be higher. Make sure to get several quotes from different plumbers before making a decision.
If you need to replace an outdoor faucet, then contact a professional plumber today. They will be able to assess the damage and recommend the best course of action. With their help, you can get your outdoor faucet replaced quickly and easily.
What is the difference between a faucet and a spigot?
A faucet is a device that controls the flow of water, while a spigot is a type of faucet. Faucets are typically used indoors, while spigots are mostly used outdoors. Spigots are also often referred to as hose bibs or sillcocks.
Faucets and spigots both have valves that control the flow of water. The main difference between the two is that faucets are designed for indoor use and have a higher water pressure than spigots.
Spigots, on the other hand, are designed for outdoor use and can handle lower water pressures. Additionally, spigots usually have a shut-off valve built into them, whereas faucets do not.
If you’re not sure which one you need, be sure to consult a professional before making your purchase.
How do I know what size outdoor faucet I need?
To figure out what size outdoor faucet you need, first measure the distance from the center of the water supply line to the center of the spigot hole. This measurement will tell you what size outdoor faucet you need.
The most common sizes are 1/2 inch and 3/4 inch. If your measurement is between these two sizes, choose the larger size. It’s always better to have a little extra space than not enough.
Once you know what size outdoor faucet you need, the next step is to determine what style of outdoor faucet you want. The most common styles are wall-mounted and post-mounted.
Wall-mounted outdoor faucets are attached directly to the outside of your home, while post-mounted outdoor faucets are mounted on a pedestal or post. Post-mounted outdoor faucets are generally more decorative than wall-mounted outdoor faucets.
When choosing an outdoor faucet, make sure to pick one that matches the style of your home. If you have a modern home, a contemporary style outdoor faucet would be a good choice. For a more traditional home, a classic style outdoor faucet would be a better option.
Once you’ve decided on the style of outdoor faucet you want, the next step is to choose the finish. The most common finishes for outdoor faucets are chrome and brass. Brass outdoor faucets are more durable than chrome outdoor faucets and they also have a more classic look. Chrome outdoor faucets are less durable than brass outdoor faucets but they offer a sleeker, more contemporary look.
When it comes to choosing an outdoor faucet, there are a few things you should keep in mind. First, make sure to pick a size that will fit the hole in your siding or brickwork. Second, pick a style that complements the overall look of your home.
And third, pick a finish that will match the other fixtures in your outdoor space. By following these tips, you should have no problem finding the perfect outdoor faucet for your home.
Why does my hose not fit my spigot?
This is a common problem because many homes have outdoor faucets that are not the standard size. The most common sizes for outdoor faucets are 3/4″ and 1″ but there are other sizes as well. If your hose does not fit your spigot, it is probably because your spigot is not the standard size.
There are a few things you can do to solve this problem:
- Purchase an adapter that will allow your hose to fit your spigot. You can find these at most hardware stores.
- Call a plumber to replace your outdoor faucet with one that is the standard size.
- Purchase a new hose that is the correct size for your outdoor faucet.
Once you have solved the problem of your hose not fitting your spigot, you can enjoy using your hose without worry!
How do you measure a spigot?
When measuring an outdoor faucet, you will need to take into account the size of the spigot and the distance from the center of the handle to the edge of the spigot. The measurement will be taken from the top of the spigot to the bottom. To get an accurate measurement, it is best to use a tape measure.