Outdoor Plumbing Help: How to Replace an Outdoor Faucet

It's not too early to start prepping your home for warmer weather. Replacing faucets with newer models is a smart idea. Here's how in 4 basic steps as provided on Angie's List:

1. Shut off the water that feeds the spigot. You may need to shut off the house's main water supply valve, or there may be another valve closer to the outdoor line. Either way, test to make sure it's off by opening the outdoor spigot. As with a garden hose, it'll spill out some water before running dry.
2. Remove the old faucet by tightly grabbing the pipe below the faucet with a pair of adjustable pliers. Tighten the pipe wrench around the faucet and twist until it comes off.
3. Use a stiff brush to clean the pipe threads (this step is important!), then wrap the threading with plumber's tape to ensure a good seal. Install the new faucet, tightening by hand.
4. After the faucet has been tightened as much as possible by hand, wrap the new faucet with a towel to protect the finish and tighten fully using adjustable pliers.

Consider a freeze-proof spigot in colder climates! This has an extra long stem, keeping the water deep inside the house when closed.

For more advice on outdoor plumbing, or any other plumbing services call NY Plumbing and Sewer Rooter at 212-235-1436.