Is your outdoor faucet leaking or dripping? A leaky outdoor faucet can be not only annoying, but also wasteful. In the United States, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) estimates that a single leaky faucet can waste up to 10,000 gallons of water per year. That’s a lot of wasted water! Fortunately, changing an outside faucet is a relatively simple plumbing repair that can be completed in a few hours. Read on to learn how to change an outside faucet step-by-step.
Before you begin, you’ll need to gather a few tools and materials, including a new outdoor faucet, a wrench, a screwdriver, and some plumber’s putty. Once you have your tools and materials ready, you can follow these steps to change your outdoor faucet. 1. Turn off the water supply to the faucet. The water supply is usually located inside the house, near the water heater. 2. Open the outside faucet to release any remaining water pressure. 3. Unscrew the old faucet from the pipe. 4. Apply a bead of plumber’s putty around the threads of the new faucet. 5. Screw the new faucet onto the pipe. 6. Tighten the faucet with the wrench. 7. Turn on the water supply to the faucet. 8. Check for leaks. If there are any leaks, tighten the faucet further.
Changing an outdoor faucet is a relatively simple plumbing repair, but it’s important to follow the steps carefully to avoid leaks. If you’re not comfortable with plumbing repairs or if you encounter any problems, you can always call a plumber for help.
Identifying the Type of Faucet
To successfully replace an outside faucet, it’s crucial to first determine its type. This entails examining the faucet’s handle, spout, and overall design. Here’s a detailed guide to help you identify the various types of outside faucets:
Compression Faucets
Compression faucets are the most common type of outside faucet. They feature two handles, one for hot water and one for cold, which control the flow of water by compressing a washer against a seat. Compression faucets are relatively easy to repair and replace.
| Characteristics | Appearance |
|---|---|
| Two handles for hot and cold water | Cross handles or lever handles |
| Compression washer seals the water flow | May require periodic tightening |
| Affordable and widely available | Traditionally styled, but also available in modern designs |
Single-Handle Faucets
Single-handle faucets offer a more contemporary look and ease of use than compression faucets. They have a single handle that controls both the temperature and flow of water. Single-handle faucets can be classified into two main types:
Ball Faucets
Ball faucets use a spherical valve to control water flow. When the handle is turned, the ball rotates, allowing water to flow through different channels and mix. Ball faucets are durable and relatively easy to repair.
Cartridge Faucets
Cartridge faucets utilize a replaceable cartridge that contains all the internal components responsible for mixing and controlling water flow. These faucets are easy to install and replace, making them a good choice for DIYers.
Gathering Necessary Tools and Materials
Before embarking on this task, it’s crucial to gather all the necessary equipment and materials. This will ensure a smooth and efficient replacement process. Here’s a comprehensive list of items you’ll need:
Tools:
| Tool | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Adjustable wrench | Tightening and loosening nuts |
| Faucet wrench | Rotating faucet nut |
| Pliers | Gripping and bending objects |
| Screwdriver (Phillips and flathead) | Removing screws |
| Tape measure or ruler | Measuring lengths |
| Safety glasses | Eye protection |
Materials:
- Replacement outside faucet
- Faucet washer
- Plumber’s tape
- Joint compound (optional)
- Replacement o-rings (if necessary)
Shutting Off the Water Supply
1. **Locate the main water shut-off valve:** This is usually located in the basement or crawl space near where your water supply enters your home.
2. **Turn off the valve:** Use a wrench or pliers to turn the valve clockwise until it stops. This will cut off the water supply to your entire home.
3. **Check to make sure the water is off:** Turn on a faucet in the house to make sure the water is no longer flowing. If it is, there may be another shut-off valve located near the faucet that needs to be turned off.
4. **Open the faucet outside:** This will help drain any remaining water from the pipes and make it easier to work on the faucet.
5. **If you have a frost-free faucet:** There will be a drain plug located at the bottom of the faucet. Remove the drain plug to allow any remaining water to drain out.
6. **If you have a hose bib:** Turn the hose bib on and off several times to drain any remaining water.
Detaching the Handle and Stem
Detaching the handle and stem is a crucial step in replacing an outside faucet. Here’s how to do it:
1. Remove the Handle
Locate the screw or cap securing the handle to the stem. Use a screwdriver or wrench to remove the screw or cap and pull the handle off.
2. Expose the Stem
Once the handle is removed, you’ll see the stem protruding from the faucet body. There may be a nut or packing nut holding the stem in place. Use a wrench or pliers to loosen the nut.
3. Loosen the Lock Nut
Underneath the nut or packing nut, you’ll likely find a lock nut. Use a wrench to loosen the lock nut, but don’t remove it completely.
4. Extract the Stem
Now comes the tricky part. Gently grasp the top of the stem with an adjustable wrench or pliers. Pull upward to extract the stem from the faucet body. Be careful not to damage the threads.
The stem may be stuck due to mineral buildup or corrosion. If this happens, try using a penetrating oil to loosen it. Let the oil penetrate for a few minutes before attempting to extract the stem.
If all else fails, you may need to consult a plumber to extract a stuck stem.
| Tools Required: |
|---|
| Screwdriver or wrench |
| Adjustable wrench or pliers |
| Penetrating oil (optional) |
Replacing the Valve Seat
Once the stem is removed, you will see the valve seat. This is a small, rubber or plastic washer that sits inside the faucet body and creates a seal against the stem. If this washer is worn or damaged, it can cause leaks.
To replace the valve seat, simply remove the old one with a screwdriver or pliers. Be careful not to damage the faucet body. Once the old washer is removed, insert the new one into the faucet body and tighten it down with a screwdriver.
Replacing the O-rings and Washers
The O-rings and washers in a faucet are used to create seals between the different components. Over time, these seals can wear out or become damaged, which can lead to leaks.
There are typically two O-rings in a faucet – one that sits between the stem and the handle, and one that sits between the stem and the faucet body. There may also be a washer located between the stem and the handle.
To replace the O-rings and washers, follow these steps:
- Remove the faucet handle.
- Remove the stem.
- Remove the old O-rings and washers.
- Apply a small amount of plumber’s grease to the new O-rings and washers.
- Insert the new O-rings and washers into the faucet body.
- Reassemble the faucet.
To replace the other O-ring, follow these steps:
- Remove the faucet handle.
- Remove the bonnet nut.
- Remove the cartridge.
- Remove the old O-ring.
- Apply a small amount of plumber’s grease to the new O-ring.
- Insert the new O-ring into the cartridge.
- Reassemble the faucet.
Reassembling the Stem and Handle
Once the stem has been replaced, it’s time to reassemble the faucet handle. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Screw on the handle: Align the handle with the stem, ensuring that the splines or notches match. Carefully screw the handle onto the stem until it is snug.
- Tighten the setscrew: Locate the setscrew at the base of the handle. Using a small Allen wrench or screwdriver, tighten the setscrew to secure the handle.
- Reinstall the handle cap: If the handle has a removable cap, place it over the handle and press down to secure it.
**Installing a Handle with a Bonnet:**
Some faucets require a bonnet to be installed between the handle and stem. To do this:
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Place the bonnet over the stem. |
| 2 | Align the holes in the bonnet with the holes in the handle. |
| 3 | Secure the bonnet by inserting the screws through the holes and tightening them with a screwdriver. |
Once the bonnet is installed, follow the remaining steps above to finish assembling the handle.
Connecting the Water Supply Line
Now that the old faucet is removed, it’s time to connect the new water supply line. Here’s how to do it:
- Wrap the threads of the water supply line with Teflon tape, clockwise, to create a watertight seal.
- Carefully hand-tighten the water supply line onto the outlet pipe coming from your home.
- Use a pair of adjustable pliers to further tighten the connection, but be careful not to overtighten and damage the pipe or line.
- Check for leaks by turning on the water supply and observing the joints. If you notice any leaks, tighten the connection further.
- If the water supply line is too long, you can trim it using a pipe cutter.
- Wrap the end of the water supply line with electrical tape to prevent sharp edges from cutting into the washer when the faucet handle is turned.
- Thread the water supply line into the inlet of the new faucet and tighten it securely using a wrench.
Testing the Faucet for Leaks
Once you’ve installed the new faucet, it’s time to test it for leaks. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Turn on the water supply. Slowly turn on the water supply to the faucet. Check for any leaks around the base of the faucet, the handle, and the spout.
- Check the base of the faucet. Inspect the area where the faucet meets the sink or countertop. Look for any water droplets or moisture.
- Check the handle. Move the handle back and forth several times. Look for any leaks around the handle stem or the packing nut.
- Check the spout. Run water through the spout and inspect it for any leaks. Look for water droplets or moisture around the spout base or the aerator.
- Use a flashlight. In some cases, leaks can be hard to spot. Use a flashlight to help you inspect the faucet for any hidden leaks.
- Check under the sink. If you notice a leak under the sink, check the connections between the faucet and the water supply lines.
- Tighten any loose connections. If you find any loose connections, tighten them using a wrench or pliers.
- Replace any worn-out parts. If you find any worn-out parts, such as O-rings or washers, replace them with new ones.
| Symptom | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Leak at the base of the faucet | Loose connection | Tighten the connection |
| Leak around the handle | Worn-out O-ring or washer | Replace the O-ring or washer |
| Leak from the spout | Damaged aerator | Replace the aerator |
Preventative Maintenance for Outdoor Faucets
Protect your outdoor faucets from freezing and costly repairs with proactive maintenance. Here are essential steps to prolong their lifespan and prevent headaches.
1. Inspect Regularly
Check for leaks, cracks, or loose connections. Tighten any loose parts and repair or replace damaged components promptly.
2. Shut Off Water Supply
During freezing weather, turn off the water supply valve inside your home to prevent frozen pipes and faucet damage.
3. Drain Remaining Water
After shutting off the water supply, open the faucet to release any remaining water and prevent freezing.
4. Insulate Exposed Pipes
Wrap exposed faucet pipes with pipe insulation to minimize cold air exposure and reduce the risk of freezing.
5. Cover the Faucet
Use a faucet cover or insulating sleeve to create an additional layer of protection against cold air.
6. Check for Damaged Hose Bibs
Examine the hose bib (the threaded part where a hose connects) for cracks or leaks. Replace damaged hose bibs to prevent water from seeping into walls or foundations.
7. Lubricate Moving Parts
Apply a silicone-based lubricant to moving parts, such as the faucet handle and stems, to ensure smooth operation and reduce wear and tear.
8. Clean Out Sediment
Remove any accumulated sediment from around the faucet base to prevent clogging and ensure proper drainage.
9. Test the Faucet Annually
Once each year, test the faucet by turning it on and off. Verify if it flows smoothly and shuts off completely.
10. Special Considerations for Freeze-Prone Areas
Faucet Types:
| Type | Freeze Resistance |
|---|---|
| Frost-Free | Yes, provides built-in protection against freezing |
| Standard | No, requires additional protection measures |
Additional Protection Measures:
How to Change an Outside Faucet
Replacing an outside faucet is a relatively simple plumbing repair that can be completed in a few hours. By following these steps, you can save yourself the cost of hiring a plumber.
Materials you will need:
- New outside faucet
- Adjustable wrench
- Teflon tape or pipe dope
- Plumber’s putty (optional)
- Bucket
Steps:
- Turn off the water supply to the faucet. There should be a shut-off valve located inside your house, near the water heater or under a sink. If there is no shut-off valve, you will need to turn off the water supply to your entire house.
- Open the faucet to release any remaining water pressure.
- Unscrew the old faucet using an adjustable wrench. If the faucet is stuck, you may need to use a penetrating oil to loosen it.
- Apply Teflon tape or pipe dope to the threads of the new faucet.
- Screw the new faucet onto the water supply pipe. Tighten the faucet until it is snug, but do not overtighten it.
- Apply plumber’s putty around the base of the faucet to prevent leaks.
- Turn on the water supply and check for leaks. If there are any leaks, tighten the faucet until the leaks stop.
People Also Ask
How do I know if my outside faucet needs to be replaced?
There are a few signs that may indicate that your outside faucet needs to be replaced:
- Leaking: A leaking faucet is a common sign that it needs to be replaced. Leaks can occur around the base of the faucet, the handle, or the spout.
- Dripping: A dripping faucet is another sign that it may need to be replaced. Dripping can occur even when the faucet is turned off.
- Frozen: If your outside faucet has frozen, it may have burst. A burst faucet will need to be replaced.
- Damaged: If the faucet is damaged, it may need to be replaced. Damage can occur due to wear and tear, or from being hit by an object.
Can I replace an outside faucet myself?
Yes, it is possible to replace an outside faucet yourself. However, it is important to have some basic plumbing knowledge and skills. If you are not comfortable working with plumbing, it is best to hire a plumber to replace the faucet for you.
How much does it cost to replace an outside faucet?
The cost of replacing an outside faucet will vary depending on the type of faucet you choose and the labor costs in your area. However, you can expect to pay between $50 and $200 for the faucet and labor.
