Installing or repairing an outside faucet can seem daunting if you don’t understand how the different parts fit together. With so many small components working in unison, it’s easy to get overwhelmed when something goes wrong.
But there’s no need to keep guessing at what’s behind that exterior wall. With the right knowledge, you’ll be able to tackle any installation or repair with confidence.
Anatomy of an Outside Faucet
While styles and configurations can vary, most outside faucets include the same core components. Understanding the function of each part will help you properly maintain your outdoor water access point.
Main Body
This is the external portion that mounts to the outside of your home or building. Main faucet bodies are usually made of brass, chrome-plated plastic, or stainless steel for durability.
The main body attaches directly to the exterior water supply pipes, then extends outward through a hole in the wall. This allows the faucet controls and spout to be accessed from outside while connecting to the interior plumbing.
Water Inlet Connection
Located at the back of the main faucet body is the water inlet connection. This is the portion that directly links the faucet to the interior water supply lines.
The inlet connection typically uses compression fittings that don’t require soldering. This makes installation a simple matter of sliding the supply tubes together and tightening the nut to form a watertight seal.
Stem Assembly
The stem assembly includes the faucet handles and valve stem. This is the part that allows you to control the water flow by rotating the handles.
There are several common types of stem assemblies found on outside faucets:
- Compression: Rotating the handle presses washers together to seal the flow.
- Ball: A rotating ball seals against flow channels to turn water on and off.
- Cartridge: Rotating cylinders raise and lower to direct water flow.
- Ceramic Disk: Rotating disks compress to stop water flow.
Spout
The faucet spout is the hollow tube that extends outward from the exterior wall. It’s typically made of metal or plastic. This directs the flow of water at the desired location for your outdoor tasks.
The spout may be a fixed tube. Or it may have articulating joints to allow directing the water precisely where needed.
Vacuum Breaker
Many codes and regulations require a vacuum breaker on the exterior water supply. This important device prevents backflow, keeping contaminated water from being drawn back into your clean water supply.
The vacuum breaker is typically found near the end of the spout. It allows air flow should water try to flow backward.
Hose Bib/Threaded Outlet
At the very end of the spout is the hose bib, also known as the threaded outlet. This allows hoses, nozzles, and other accessories to be securely attached using the included threads.
Standard sizes are 3/4″ or 1″ male hose threads. Always check your accessories to ensure the thread pitch matches the faucet outlet.
Common Additional Features
With technology advancing all the time, outside faucets now include options and upgrades that make accessing outdoor water more convenient and versatile.
Freeze Protection
In cold climates, a major concern is water freezing inside pipes and causing catastrophic bursts or cracks. Special freeze protection features help prevent this.
Heated faucets contain heating elements and insulation to keep water flowing freely, even when temperatures dip below freezing. Shut-off valves allow draining water back inside before winter hits.
Simple insulating faucet covers slip over the exterior portion, keeping the cold from penetrating. These help avoid frozen pipes and damage.
Water Filtration
Having clean water for outdoor uses like washing cars, gardening, and pets is now easier than ever. Some newer outside faucets come equipped with built-in water filtration systems.
These simple systems filter out sediments and contaminants as the water flows through the faucet. This removes impurities, chlorine, and particulates from the water supply without compromising flow rate.
Smart Faucet Controls
In this technology driven world, even faucets have entered the smart home arena. Sophisticated electronic systems now allow outside faucet operation via your smartphone or tablet.
From across the yard or inside your home, you can turn the water on and off, activate spray patterns, and regulate temperature. Convenient presets automate watering schedules for lawns and gardens.
Multi-Function Sprayers
Standard hose connections work fine for many tasks. But other jobs require more specialized spray options. Newer outside faucets often include multi-function sprayer heads.
From shower and jet settings to fixed sprays for rinsing, these versatile designs make it easy to tackle any outdoor job. Quick-connect fittings allow swapping different sprayers as needed.
Solar Power Systems
For an eco-friendly way to access outdoor water, solar powered faucets are gaining popularity. Small solar panels convert sunlight into power to run the faucet autonomously.
This avoids the need to dig trenches or access electrical wiring. Solar faucets are easy to install and provide reliable service while conserving energy.
Proper Installation
Putting in a new outside faucet or replacing an old one isn’t difficult. But following best practices during installation ensures your faucet will function safely and reliably for years to come.
Follow Manufacturer Instructions
Faucet makers provide detailed guidelines for proper installation and mounting. Following these instructions prevents leaks, damage, and operational issues down the road.
Pay special attention to tips for hole size, positioning, tightening hardware, and applying thread sealants on connections.
Check for Leaks
After installing your new faucet, check all connections for potential leaks before closing up the wall. Tighten fittings as needed to stop drips and seepage.
Catching leaks now prevents water damage and mold growth inside the wall down the road.
Regular Maintenance
Annual maintenance keeps your outside faucet working smoothly. Lubricate stem assembly components and check washers or seals for wear or cracks.
Replace any worn parts right away to avoid dealing with a full-blown leak later on. A few preventive maintenance steps goes a long way.
Proper Winterization
In regions where sub-freezing temperatures occur, you’ll need to drain and shut off the faucet each fall. This prevents frozen pipes and damage.
Detach Hoses
Always disconnect any hoses before winter sets in. Remaining water in hoses will freeze and rupture the hose. Store hoses indoors until spring.
Insulate the Faucet
Slip insulating foam or rubber covers over exposed fixtures. This provides protection from freezing cold air.
Drain the Pipes
Turn off the interior water supply and open the outside faucet to allow all water to drain back inside. Shut off any internal valves feeding the faucet.
Opening drain plugs allows any remaining water to evacuate. Prevents pipes from bursting when temperatures drop.
Understanding how an outside faucet is put together empowers you to properly install and service this important component. With so many parts working together seamlessly, it pays to know their function.
New outside faucet designs offer convenience and versatility for all your outdoor water needs. But the basic anatomy remains the same. Keeping each component in good working order lets you tackle any outdoor project.
Armed with this overview of the must-know parts of an outside faucet, you can stop guessing and tackle any installation or repair with full confidence. Knowing how everything connects and functions takes the mystery out of this outdoor necessity.
