How to Install an Outdoor Faucet

Your garden needs watering, and once again you have to hook up two or three hoses or walk around the house to access an outdoor faucet. You have thought about installing a new spigot, but put it off because you think it's difficult. This is one do-it-yourself task that is worth the time and effort necessary to plan and implement installation. The time you spend working in your yard will be more enjoyable and productive after you install a new outdoor faucet. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1

Locate the source from which you will draw water. This may be the water main, another outdoor faucet, or a nearby indoor water pipe. Finding the closest available water supply greatly simplifies the project.

2

Measure the distance from the water supply to the area where you wish to locate your faucet. Follow the same path the pipe must take. Choose plastic ABS pipe or galvanized metal pipe. Draw the path of the water line, including measurements, from the water source to the new faucet location. Use graph paper and make a scaled drawing. Mark any turns or rises that must be accommodated.

3

Make a list of fittings you will need to build the water line. At a minimum, you will need a tee for tapping into the existing water source, piping, a 90-degree elbow and the faucet. If your path is not straight, you will need additional 45- or 90-degree elbows to accommodate turns. If your path is longer than the available piping, you will need couplers to join the pipe.

If you are using metal pipe and do not own a pipe threader, you will need to measure each distance and have the pipe cut and threaded when you purchase. Most stores that sell pipe also provide cutting and threading services.

4

You may run the piping above ground, along the exterior of your home, or bury the pipe. If you run it above ground, it must be insulated to prevent freezing. If you are burying the pipe, dig a trench approximately 12 to 18 inches deep along the path you have mapped out.

5

Turn off the main water supply to your home. Tap into the pipe you wish to use as a water source by cutting it and adding the tee fitting. If using metal pipe, wrap the threads with Teflon tape and tighten the tee securely. If using ABS, glue the tee in place. Attach the next piece of pipe to the outlet of the tee. Continue attaching subsequent pipe, joints or elbows until you reach the area in which your faucet is located. Use the 90-degree elbow and attach a length of pipe that places the faucet at the desired height.

If using metal, you must wrap the threads with Teflon tape and attach the faucet. Tighten securely. If using ABS plastic, you must attach a threaded coupler on the end before attaching the faucet. Glue the non-threaded end of the coupler to the ABS pipe. Wrap the threaded end with Teflon tape and attach the faucet.

6

Turn on the water and test for leaks. Tighten pipe threads or re-glue any areas that leak. Secure the upright pipe to the nearest wall using pipe strapping or a clamp. If it is a freestanding faucet, you may wish to build a support structure around it from wood, metal or concrete to prevent damage.