Outdoor water faucets are a valuable resource, providing access to fresh water during hot summer days or for outdoor maintenance tasks. But it’s important to know how to take care of your outside water faucet in order to ensure that it works correctly and safely.
Let’s look at the basics of outside water faucet plumbing, what you need to watch out for, and how to keep your faucet in tip-top shape through all kinds of weather and seasonal changes.
Differences Between Inside and Outside Water Faucets
When it comes to outside water faucets, there are some differences compared with indoor plumbing. For instance, outside water lines are usually made from copper pipes instead of PVC because they resist winter frost better.
Also, the valves used for outdoor faucets may have a built-in vacuum breaker that prevents backflow into the house if the hose becomes clogged or is accidentally submerged in a pool or pond.
Finally, outdoor spigots use different materials than indoor fixtures and should be checked for corrosion periodically.
Because outside taps are exposed directly to the elements, they need much more robust protection against freezing temperatures and strong winds than their indoor counterparts do.
Additionally, they may need extra insulation around any exposed pipes. This can help prevent condensation from forming inside them, which could lead to further damage over time
Lastly, because outside taps tend to be used much less frequently than those inside a home or business, there may be fewer opportunities for regular maintenance checks — making it even more important that any potential issues are addressed quickly before they become major problems.
What You Need to Watch Out For
It’s important to pay attention when using an outdoor water faucet so that you can spot any signs of wear and tear or damage.
Look out for leaking pipes or joints around the valve stem as this could be a sign that the seal has been broken and needs replacing.
Also, keep an eye out for any cracks in the pipe itself. These can lead to major leaks down the road if not addressed promptly.
Finally, make sure that there is no debris or dirt buildup around your outdoor spigot. This can create clogs and blockages which will prevent proper functioning.
When it comes to taking care of your outdoor water faucet, one key tip is to ensure that you turn off the valve completely during cold weather months. This helps ensure that no water is left inside the pipes which could freeze and cause them to burst or crack.
Looking for ways to protect your faucets from extreme temperatures or other environmental factors? These may include UV rays from direct sunlight. Consider investing in covers! These are especially helpful during winter months when frost can be particularly damaging.
Make sure that you inspect your outdoor faucets regularly throughout every season. (Just like you would with any other part of your home’s plumbing system.) This will help ensure that they stay in good condition year-round.
Meticulous Plumbing: Your Outside Plumbing Resource
There are many items that go along with outdoor plumbing, including:
- shut-off valves to control the water (specifically, the flow of water)
- garden hoses
- outdoor hose bibs
- ball valves
If you ever have any questions about keeping these items in tip-top shape, let us know. We can help keep things frost free during the winter months. We can also recommend frost-proof materials to protect your water supply and prevent water damage.
When it’s time to repair or replace your outdoor spigot, partner with someone experienced in all aspects of plumbing. This includes outside water faucet plumbing.
We want to make sure everything gets done right. That’s why Meticulous Plumbing in Portland is the best choice for maintaining your home’s plumbing system.
We have years of experience working with residential clients on projects ranging from small repairs to major overhauls. You can trust Meticulous Plumbing to get the job done right.
Maintaining an outside water faucet is essential for keeping your home safe and functional. It should work properly through all kinds of weather conditions and seasonal changes. It’s important to understand how outside water faucet plumbing differs from indoor plumbing. This way you can spot any potential problems quickly before they become major problems.
When it comes time to repair or replace your outdoor spigot, trust Meticulous Plumbing in Portland, Oregon — the most respected resource for all your plumbing needs.
