Installing a Leak-Proof Outdoor Faucet for Easy Garden Hose Access
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Removing the Old Outdoor Faucet
- Preparing the Installation Area
- Installing the New Outdoor Faucet
- Using the Upgraded Faucet
- Conclusion
Introduction to Upgrading an Outdoor Faucet
Upgrading an old, leaky outdoor faucet with a new, high-quality option can provide numerous benefits. This article will provide a step-by-step guide to replacing an aging outdoor faucet with a stylish, heavy-duty aqua spigot hydrant. We'll cover the process of removing the old faucet, prepping the installation area, installing the new hydrant, and using the upgraded fixture.
Replacing outdoor faucets can prevent wasting water from leaks, improve aesthetics, and add convenient features. The aqua spigots are made of 100% marine-grade stainless steel for maximum durability. Their unique design also allows instant on/off control to prevent accidental water waste.
Overview of Faucet Replacement Project
In this article, we will be replacing an old, leaky outdoor faucet located next to a garage door with a new aqua spigot hydrant. The existing fixture is fairly basic and unremarkable, while the new hydrant offers a high-end style and useful functionality. We'll go over all the steps needed to remove the old faucet, cut into the wall to access the plumbing, install mounting blocks, connect the pipes to the aqua spigot, seal up gaps, and test for leaks. The goal is to end up with a great looking, water-efficient outdoor faucet.
Benefits of Upgrading Outdoor Faucets
There are several excellent reasons to consider upgrading basic outdoor faucets:
- Prevents water waste from leaks: Old fixtures often develop leaks over time, which can waste huge amounts of water.
- Improved aesthetics: The aqua spigots feature stylish stainless steel design that looks great on any home.
- Convenience: The hydrants allow instant on/off access when attaching garden hoses to prevent accidental water flow.
Removing the Old Leaky Outdoor Faucet
The first step in this outdoor faucet replacement project is to turn off the main water supply to the home. This ensures no water will flow out when we remove the old fixture.
Start by unscrewing the two screws holding the aging outdoor faucet to the wall. Carefully pull the faucet away and examine the existing plumbing inside the wall. Based on the PEX plastic pipes seen here, this should be an easy plumbing job.
Use plastic tubing cutters to cleanly cut the water lines. This will allow you to fully remove the old leaky faucet. Be sure to shut off the main water supply before cutting any pipes!
Preparing the Installation Area
With the old faucet removed, now the fun begins by preparing the installation area for the new aqua spigot hydrant. This involves cutting a precise hole into the exterior wall where the faucet will mount.
Start by sticking the included template onto the wall siding where you want the hydrant positioned. Use a hole saw centered on the template to cut out the bottom portion of the hole pattern.
Using a Hole Saw and Oscillating Tool
A hole saw alone can't complete the full opening because of the unusual shape. This is where an oscillating multi-tool comes in handy. The vibrating blade can cleanly and accurately cut the remaining odd angles. Carefully notch out the top portion with the oscillating tool to complete the hole. Test fit the hydrant several times to ensure a snug fit. These steps allow cleanly cutting the siding for a seamless faucet installation.
Installing the New Outdoor Faucet
With the siding fully prepped, it's time to mount the new aqua spigot hydrant and connect the water lines. Ensure you first insert the decorative trim plate behind the faucet body before screwing it into the wall.
The PEX pipes make plumbing simple. Just cut the lines to size with tubing cutters and fit them over the barbed ends of the faucet. Secure metal rings tightly clamp down for watertight connections.
Connecting the Plumbing
The existing PEX plastic plumbing lines simplify installing the new hydrant. Just measure and cleanly cut the pipes to the needed length using tubing cutters. Then fit the lines over the barbed connectors at the back of the faucet. Stainless steel rings clamp down and tightly seal the joint. A special crimping tool ensures the rings are fully compressed for leak-free connections. The built-in valve means no leaks even if hoses are removed.
Sealing Gaps and Checking for Leaks
Since this hydrant was installed directly into the siding, carefully seal any remaining gaps around the fixture with exterior caulk. This prevents moisture intrusion behind the wall. With the plumbing reconnected, slowly turn the main water supply back on. Thoroughly inspect the new spigot and all connections for any water leaks. The project is complete after confirming everything is watertight.
Using the Upgraded Faucet
Hose Adapters for Easy On/Off Access
The aqua spigots come with special hose adapters that thread onto garden hoses. Inserting the adapter automatically turns on the water with a 1/4 turn. Removing the adapter instantly shuts off flow, preventing waste. This allows safely leaving hoses hooked up without worrying about leaks. It also enables quickly switching between multiple hoses without needing to turn faucets on and off each time.
Flexible Garden Hose Options
While any hose can be used, aqua spigots sell unique lightweight flexible hoses perfect for these installations. They are made of carbon fiber and kink-free while still having a compact half-inch diameter. The slim hoses are ideal for light duty watering jobs, washing cars, etc. Standard thicker hoses can still be used for high flow applications like watering lawns.
Conclusion
Upgrading to new aqua spigot hydrants is an excellent home improvement project with many benefits compared to basic leaky outdoor faucets.
The stylish and functional design prevents wasted water, adds visual appeal, and enables effortless hose connections. Following the steps outlined here will allow DIYers to safely install these useful fixtures.
Investing in durable and water efficient outdoor spigots saves money over time and keeps your home looking its best. The improvement in functionality and aesthetics is immediately clear after replacement.
FAQ
Q: What are the benefits of upgrading an outdoor faucet?
A: Upgrading to a leak-proof faucet provides easy on/off access, prevents wasted water from leaks, and has a modern, upgraded look.
Q: What tools do I need to install a new outdoor faucet?
A: The main tools needed are plastic pipe cutters, a hole saw, an oscillating tool, PEX plumbing crimpers, and basic hand tools.
Q: How do I stop water leaks with the new faucet?
A: The faucet has a built-in valve so water stops flowing when the hose adapter is removed, preventing leaks.
Q: What accessories work with this faucet?
A: It's compatible with standard garden hoses and specialized carbon fiber hoses. It also works with pressure washers.
Q: Can this faucet be installed on any exterior surface?
A: Yes, it can be mounted directly to siding or on a mounting block. The install is customizable.
Q: Is the new faucet made of high-quality materials?
A: The faucet is constructed from 100% marine grade stainless steel for maximum durability.
Q: What colors does the faucet come in?
A: Trim kit colors include gray plastic, antique brass, stainless steel, and white.
Q: Can I leave a hose attached all season?
A: Yes, adapters can stay inserted for standard faucet-like access. The valve prevents leaks.
Q: Does this require special plumbing skills?
A: No, it works with common PEX pipes and fittings. No soldering required.
Q: Where else can this faucet be installed?
A: It comes in small sizes perfect for tight spaces like outdoor kitchens.