Types of outdoor faucet are essential fixtures for any homeowner, as they serve as the primary source of water for all outdoor activities. From watering plants to washing cars and filling up swimming pools, outdoor faucets come in different styles, shapes, and sizes. Choosing the right type of faucet can be overwhelming, especially if you’re not familiar with their features and functionality. In this article, we will explore the various types of outdoor faucets to help you make an informed decision when selecting one that suits your needs.
Types of Outdoor Faucet
Types of outdoor faucet refer to the different types of faucets that are used outside of a building or home for various purposes. These faucets are designed to withstand harsh weather conditions and provide water supply for outdoor activities such as gardening, car washing, and more.
One type of outdoor faucet is the sillcock faucet. There are two types of sillcock faucets: standard and frost-free. Standard sillcock faucets are commonly used in warmer climates where freezing temperatures are not an issue. They have a valve that shuts off the water supply inside the house, but the remaining water in the pipe can freeze during cold weather, causing damage.
On the other hand, frost-free sillcock faucets are designed to prevent freezing by extending the valve several inches inside the house where it is warm. This design prevents any remaining water from freezing and causing damage to the pipe.
Another type of outdoor faucet is hose bibs. Like sillcock faucets, there are two types of hose bibs: standard and anti-siphon. Standard hose bibs have a simple design with no backflow prevention mechanism. Anti-siphon hose bibs, on the other hand, prevent contaminated water from flowing back into the main water supply system by using a built-in vacuum breaker.
Wall hydrants are another type of outdoor faucet that is commonly installed on exterior walls. They come in two types: standard and freeze-proof. Standard wall hydrants have a simple design with no protection against freezing temperatures. Freeze-proof wall hydrants have an extended valve that extends several inches inside the house where it is warm, preventing any remaining water from freezing.
Lastly, yard hydrants are another type of outdoor faucet that is ideal for watering livestock or plants in large areas away from buildings or homes. Yard hydrants come equipped with long pipes that extend up to four feet below ground level to prevent them from freezing during cold weather.
In summary, understanding these different types of outdoor faucets will help you choose the most appropriate one for your specific needs based on your location and intended use.
1. Sillcock Faucets
Sillcock faucets are a common type of outdoor faucet that is installed on the exterior of a home or building. These faucets are designed to provide water access for outdoor use, such as watering plants or washing cars. There are two main types of sillcock faucets: standard and frost-free.
Standard sillcock faucets are the most basic type of outdoor faucet. They have a handle that turns to open and close the valve, which controls the flow of water. These faucets can be prone to freezing in cold weather, which can cause damage to the plumbing system if not properly insulated.
Frost-free sillcock faucets, also known as freeze-proof faucets, are designed to prevent freezing in cold weather. They have a longer stem that extends into the home or building, where it is warmer and less likely to freeze. When the handle is turned off, the valve closes inside the warm area, preventing any remaining water from freezing and causing damage.
It’s important to note that frost-free sillcock faucets still need to be properly insulated during cold weather to prevent freezing. This can be done by using insulation sleeves or wrapping them with heat tape.
Overall, both standard and frost-free sillcock faucets are essential for any outdoor water needs. It’s important to choose the right type for your climate and ensure proper insulation during colder months.
– Standard Sillcock Faucets
Standard Sillcock Faucets are one of the most common types of outdoor faucets, also known as hose bibs or spigots. They are typically found on the exterior walls of homes and buildings and are used to connect hoses for watering plants or washing cars.
These faucets have a valve that controls the flow of water, which is turned on and off by a handle. The valve is connected to a pipe that extends into the wall and connects to the home’s plumbing system. Standard Sillcock Faucets are usually made of brass or chrome-plated brass, which makes them durable and long-lasting.
One important thing to note about Standard Sillcock Faucets is that they should be turned off in the winter months to prevent freezing and damage to the plumbing system. This can be done by shutting off the water supply to the faucet inside the house and then opening up the faucet outside to allow any remaining water to drain out.
Overall, Standard Sillcock Faucets are a reliable and affordable option for outdoor water access. However, if you live in an area with cold winters, you may want to consider a frost-free sillcock faucet instead.
– Frost-Free Sillcock Faucets
Frost-Free Sillcock Faucets are a type of outdoor faucet that is designed to prevent freezing during cold weather. These faucets have a longer stem that extends into the house, where it is warmer, so that the water supply is protected from freezing temperatures.
One of the main benefits of Frost-Free Sillcock Faucets is that they can be used year-round without having to worry about turning off the water supply during the winter months. This makes them a convenient option for homeowners who want to use their outdoor faucets for various purposes, such as watering plants or washing cars.
Another advantage of Frost-Free Sillcock Faucets is that they are easy to install and require minimal maintenance. They typically come with a vacuum breaker, which prevents backflow and contamination of the water supply. This feature ensures that the water flowing through these faucets remains clean and safe for use.
It’s important to note that even though Frost-Free Sillcock Faucets are designed to prevent freezing, they are not completely immune to cold weather. If temperatures drop too low or if there is a prolonged period of freezing temperatures, these faucets can still freeze and become damaged. Therefore, it’s essential to take proper precautions during extreme weather conditions by insulating pipes and disconnecting hoses from outdoor faucets.
Overall, Frost-Free Sillcock Faucets offer many benefits for homeowners who need reliable access to water throughout the year. Their design ensures protection against freezing temperatures while also providing convenience and ease of use.
2. Hose Bibs
Hose bibs are another type of outdoor faucet that is commonly found in residential and commercial buildings. They are also known as spigots, hose spouts, or hose bibcocks. Hose bibs are designed to provide a convenient water supply for outdoor activities such as gardening, washing cars, and filling pools.
There are two main types of hose bibs: standard hose bibs and anti-siphon hose bibs. Standard hose bibs are the most common type and consist of a simple valve with a threaded spout for attaching a garden hose. Anti-siphon hose bibs have an additional backflow prevention mechanism that prevents contaminated water from flowing back into the main water supply.
Standard hose bibs are usually made of brass or chrome-plated brass and come in various sizes ranging from 1/2 inch to 3/4 inch. They can be installed on the exterior walls of buildings or mounted on posts or stands. Some models come with a built-in vacuum breaker that prevents backflow by releasing air when the water supply is turned off.
Anti-siphon hose bibs are required by many building codes and regulations because they prevent cross-connections between potable water systems and non-potable sources such as garden hoses or sprinkler systems. They feature a vacuum breaker that seals the valve shut when the water supply is turned off, preventing contaminated water from siphoning back into the main supply line.
In summary, there are two types of hose bibs: standard and anti-siphon. Standard hose bibs are simple valves with threaded spouts for attaching garden hoses, while anti-siphon hose bibs have an additional backflow prevention mechanism to protect against contaminated water. When choosing a type of outdoor faucet, it’s important to consider your specific needs and local building codes to ensure safe and efficient use of your water supply.
– Standard Hose Bibs
Standard Hose Bibs are one of the most common types of outdoor faucet used in residential and commercial properties. They are simple, inexpensive, and easy to install. Standard Hose Bibs have a threaded spout that allows you to attach a garden hose or other watering device.
The main disadvantage of Standard Hose Bibs is that they do not have an anti-siphon feature. This means that if the hose is submerged in water, there is a risk of backflow contamination. Backflow can cause harmful chemicals and bacteria to enter your drinking water system, which can be dangerous for your health.
To prevent this issue, Anti-Siphon Hose Bibs were developed. These types of outdoor faucets have a built-in backflow prevention valve that stops water from flowing backward into the main water supply. Anti-Siphon Hose Bibs are ideal for areas with low water pressure since they work by creating a vacuum seal that prevents contaminated water from entering the system.
Overall, choosing between Standard Hose Bibs and Anti-Siphon Hose Bibs depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you want a simple and affordable option for watering your garden or washing your car, then Standard Hose Bibs may be suitable for you. However, if you want to ensure the safety of your drinking water supply and prevent backflow contamination, then Anti-Siphon Hose Bibs are the better choice.
– Anti-Siphon Hose Bibs
Anti-Siphon Hose Bibs are a type of outdoor faucet that is designed to prevent backflow of contaminated water into the main water supply. This type of faucet has a built-in vacuum breaker that prevents water from flowing back into the plumbing system, which can cause contamination and health hazards.
Anti-Siphon Hose Bibs are commonly used in areas where there is a risk of contamination, such as in chemical plants or areas with agricultural runoff. They are also used in residential settings to protect against potential hazards.
These types of faucets are easy to install and operate like standard hose bibs. They come in different sizes and styles to fit various applications. Some models have adjustable flow control, making them ideal for watering plants or washing cars.
One advantage of Anti-Siphon Hose Bibs is that they do not require an additional backflow prevention device, which can save time and money on installation. However, it’s important to note that these faucets should be installed by a licensed plumber to ensure proper installation and compliance with local plumbing codes.
Overall, Anti-Siphon Hose Bibs are an effective way to protect against backflow and potential contamination in outdoor water systems.
3. Wall Hydrants
Wall hydrants are another type of outdoor faucet that you may encounter. These faucets are installed on the exterior walls of buildings and provide a convenient water source for tasks such as gardening, car washing, and cleaning outdoor furniture.
Standard wall hydrants are similar to hose bibs but are mounted on the wall instead of being attached directly to a pipe. They typically have a handle that you turn to control the flow of water. Standard wall hydrants require draining during colder months to prevent freezing and damage.
Freeze-proof wall hydrants, also known as frost-free or anti-freeze faucets, are designed to prevent freezing during cold weather. These faucets have a long stem that extends into the house where it is warmer, preventing water from freezing inside the faucet. Freeze-proof wall hydrants are ideal for areas with harsh winters where temperatures regularly drop below freezing.
When choosing a wall hydrant, consider factors such as durability, ease of use, and compatibility with your plumbing system. It’s also important to choose a faucet that is appropriate for your climate and weather conditions.
Overall, wall hydrants provide a convenient and reliable source of water for outdoor tasks while minimizing the risk of damage from freezing temperatures.
– Standard Wall Hydrants
Standard wall hydrants are a type of outdoor faucet that is installed on the exterior walls of buildings. They are commonly used for watering lawns, gardens, and washing cars. Standard wall hydrants are designed to be installed with the valve stem extending through the wall into the interior of the building. This allows for easy access and maintenance.
These types of faucets have a long stem that extends into the wall cavity. The handle is located on the outside of the building and turns a valve inside the stem to control water flow. Standard wall hydrants are available in different lengths to accommodate various wall thicknesses.
One advantage of standard wall hydrants is their durability. They are typically made from brass or stainless steel, which makes them resistant to corrosion and wear. This means they can withstand harsh weather conditions and last for many years without needing replacement.
However, one disadvantage of standard wall hydrants is that they can freeze during cold weather if not properly installed or insulated. When water freezes inside the stem, it can cause damage to both the faucet and the plumbing system inside the building. Therefore, it’s important to install them correctly and take necessary precautions during winter months.
In summary, standard wall hydrants are a reliable type of outdoor faucet that provides easy access to water for various purposes. They are durable but require proper installation and insulation to prevent freezing during cold weather.
– Freeze-Proof Wall Hydrants
Freeze-Proof Wall Hydrants are a type of outdoor faucet that is designed to withstand freezing temperatures. They are commonly used in colder climates where temperatures can drop below freezing during the winter months. These faucets are also known as frost-proof or freezeless hydrants.
Unlike standard wall hydrants, which can freeze and burst when the temperature drops below freezing, freeze-proof wall hydrants have a long stem that extends back into the house. This stem is connected to a valve inside the house, which shuts off the water supply to the faucet when it is turned off. This prevents water from remaining in the faucet and freezing, which can cause damage to the faucet and plumbing.
Freeze-proof wall hydrants typically have a length of pipe that extends through the wall of the house and into the ground outside. The end of this pipe is connected to a spigot or faucet head, which allows water to flow out when it is turned on. The length of pipe inside the house ensures that any water left in the faucet drains out completely when it is turned off.
One advantage of using freeze-proof wall hydrants is that they do not require draining before winter. This makes them more convenient than other types of outdoor faucets, which may need to be drained or removed entirely during cold weather.
It’s important to note that while freeze-proof wall hydrants are designed to prevent freezing, they are not completely immune to damage from extreme cold. In very cold weather, water may still freeze inside the pipe leading up to the valve inside your home, causing damage if precautions aren’t taken.
Overall, if you live in an area with harsh winters and want an outdoor faucet that can withstand freezing temperatures without requiring extensive maintenance, a freeze-proof wall hydrant may be your best option.
4. Yard Hydrants
Yard hydrants are a type of outdoor faucet that is commonly used in rural areas. They are designed to provide water access for livestock, irrigation, and other outdoor activities. A yard hydrant consists of a long pipe that is buried underground with a valve at the bottom. The valve is connected to a handle above ground which allows you to turn the water on and off.
One of the main benefits of yard hydrants is their durability. Since they are buried underground, they are less likely to be damaged by weather or other outdoor elements. In addition, they typically have a longer lifespan than other types of outdoor faucets.
There are two main types of yard hydrants: standard and freeze-proof. Standard yard hydrants work like any other outdoor faucet and require draining during the winter months to prevent freezing. On the other hand, freeze-proof yard hydrants are designed with an elongated stem that extends below the frost line. This prevents water from freezing in the pipe during cold weather.
When choosing a yard hydrant, it’s important to consider your specific needs and usage requirements. If you live in an area with harsh winters, a freeze-proof yard hydrant may be more suitable for your needs. However, if you only need occasional access to water for outdoor activities, a standard yard hydrant may suffice.
Overall, yard hydrants are a reliable and durable option for those who require frequent access to outdoor water sources. With proper installation and maintenance, they can provide years of hassle-free use.
Conclusion
In conclusion, knowing the different types of outdoor faucets is crucial in ensuring that you have the right one for your needs. Sillcock faucets come in two varieties: standard and frost-free, with the latter being a more popular choice due to its ability to prevent freezing. Hose bibs are also available in two types: standard and anti-siphon, where the latter provides additional protection against backflow. Wall hydrants can be either standard or freeze-proof, with freeze-proof models designed to withstand harsh winter conditions. Lastly, yard hydrants are perfect for those who need water supply away from their homes or buildings. With this knowledge on hand, you can now choose the best outdoor faucet that suits your requirements and enjoy a steady supply of water outdoors without any worries about leaks or damages caused by freezing temperatures.