Installing an outdoor faucet enhances the convenience and functionality of your outdoor living space. Tasks such as washing your car, watering the garden, or giving your dog a bath become significantly easier with an outdoor water source. This detailed guide will walk you through every step of the installation process, helping you avoid the expense of hiring a professional.
Parts of an Outdoor Faucet
Before you begin, familiarize yourself with these essential plumbing components:
Adapter: Connects two pipes.
Backflow Preventer: Prevents water from flowing back into the potable water supply.
Ball Valve: A spherical valve that controls water flow.
Drain Valve: Installed at the lowest point in a pipe to drain excess water.
Flange: The widened pipe rim that supports and attaches the faucet to an exterior wall.
PEX: High-density, flexible piping used in home water systems.
Shutoff Valve: Turns off the main water supply to a pipe.
Sill Cock: The external faucet head for garden hose attachment.
Best Types of Piping for an Outdoor Faucet
You have three main options for the supply line of your outdoor faucet:
Copper Pipes
Copper is renowned for its durability and corrosion resistance. It can withstand high water pressure and maintains water quality. However, it is the most expensive option and less suitable for tight, underground spaces due to its rigidity.
PVC Pipes
PVC is the most common choice for residential plumbing. These pipes are durable, long-lasting, and resistant to rust, making them a reliable option for high water pressure environments.
PEX Pipes
PEX pipes are made from cross-linked polyethylene plastic. They are flexible, strong, and affordable, making them ideal for tight spaces and areas with complex layouts. This guide will use PEX piping for the installation process.
Tools and Materials Required
Tools
Adjustable wrench
Tape measure
Cordless power drill
Self-feeding wood or masonry bit
Drill extension
Tubing cutter
PEX crimping tool
Soldering torch
Materials
¾-inch PEX piping
Pipe elbows
Screws
Drain valves
Supportive tube straps
Frost-proof sill cock
Plumber’s putty or caulk
Estimated Costs
Item | Average Cost |
Tape measure | $20 |
Cordless drill | $80 |
Wood/masonry drill bit | $40 |
Drill extension bit | $15 |
Adjustable wrench | $25 |
Tubing cutter | $20 |
Soldering torch | $30 |
PEX crimper | $60 |
Drain valve | $15 |
Sill cock | $35 |
Plumber’s putty | $4 |
Pipes | $4 per 2-foot pipe |
Pipe elbows | $35 per 5-pack |
Screws | $10 per 1-pound box |
Tube straps | $4 per 10-piece pack |
Step-by-Step Installation Instructions
Step One: Determine the Spot for Your Faucet
Choose a location for your faucet based on convenience and proximity to a water supply. Ideal spots include areas near gardens, driveways, or exterior walls backing up to interior plumbing.
Step Two: Drill the Faucet Hole
Mark the spot for the faucet hole and use a self-feeding drill bit (or masonry bit for non-wooden walls) to drill through the exterior wall. Use a drill extension if necessary.
Step Three: Install Piping
Turn off the water supply.
Use a tubing cutter to create an entry point for the new pipe attachment.
Solder a transition fitting if using copper pipes for the main supply.
Run the PEX pipe from the drill hole to the main water supply, securing it with tube straps every couple of feet.
Use elbow joints to navigate around beams without drilling through them.
Install drain valves at low points to prevent water from getting trapped.
Attach the PEX pipe to the transition fitting with a PEX crimper tool.
Step Four: Attach the Spigot
Feed the sill cock's stem through the drill hole and connect it to the PEX piping.
Insulate the faucet’s flange with plumber’s putty or caulk.
Secure the faucet to the exterior wall with screws.
Step Five: Test Your New Faucet
Turn on the water supply and test the faucet. Check for leaks and ensure proper water flow.
Final Thoughts
By following this guide, you can successfully install an outdoor faucet, enhancing your home's functionality and convenience. Should you prefer to save time or avoid handling the tools, consider hiring a professional to ensure a seamless installation. Happy DIYing!
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