A water spigot, also known as an outdoor faucet, is an essential addition to any home, providing a convenient water source for gardening, washing cars, and general outdoor cleaning. Whether you’re installing a new spigot or replacing an old one, plumbing a water spigot is a manageable DIY project that can save you time and money.
This guide will take you through everything you need to know about plumbing a water spigot, from choosing the right materials to completing the installation.
Table of Contents
Why Install a Water Spigot?
Installing an outdoor water spigot comes with numerous benefits:
- Convenience: Easily access water for outdoor use.
- Garden and Lawn Care: Attach a hose for watering plants and grass.
- Car Washing: Avoid the need for indoor water connections.
- Property Value: Adds functionality and increases home resale value.
- Prevents Indoor Water Damage: No need to drag hoses inside the house.
With these advantages, having a well-installed water spigot ensures a steady and convenient water supply outside your home.
Step 1: Gather the Necessary Tools and Materials
Before you begin, ensure you have the following tools and materials:
Tools:
✅ Adjustable wrench
✅ Pipe cutter or hacksaw
✅ Drill and appropriate drill bits
✅ Teflon (plumber’s) tape
✅ Pipe wrench
✅ Pliers
✅ Tape measure
✅ Screwdriver
✅ Soldering kit (if using copper pipes)
Materials:
✅ Outdoor hose bibb (spigot)
✅ Copper, PVC, or PEX piping (depending on your preference)
✅ Pipe fittings (elbows, couplings, adapters)
✅ Pipe insulation (if necessary)
✅ Hose clamp (for securing PEX tubing)
✅ Valve or shut-off valve
Once you have these items ready, you can begin the installation.
Step 2: Choose the Right Location for Your Spigot
Before installation, decide where you want the spigot to be placed. The best locations include:
- Near a garden or lawn for easy watering.
- Close to a driveway for washing vehicles.
- Near an exterior wall to connect to your indoor plumbing system.
- Away from high-traffic areas to prevent accidental damage.
Ensure the spigot is positioned high enough to attach a hose and allow for comfortable use.
Step 3: Turn Off the Water Supply
Before working on any plumbing project, turn off the water supply to avoid leaks or flooding.
- If connecting to your home’s main water line, shut off the main valve.
- If tapping into an existing pipe, turn off the water supply to that specific area.
- Open a nearby faucet to relieve pressure and drain excess water.
With the water supply off, you can begin installing the spigot.
Step 4: Cut Into the Existing Water Line
Depending on the material of your home’s plumbing, the method for tapping into the existing water supply will vary.
For Copper Pipes:
- Measure and mark the section where the new pipe connection will be installed.
- Use a pipe cutter or hacksaw to cut the pipe.
- Clean the edges with sandpaper to remove burrs.
- Solder a T-fitting into place to allow a connection to the spigot.
For PVC Pipes:
- Cut the pipe using a PVC pipe cutter.
- Attach a PVC T-fitting using PVC primer and cement.
- Allow the cement to dry before turning the water back on.
For PEX Pipes:
- Cut the PEX pipe using a PEX cutter.
- Attach a PEX T-fitting using crimp rings or push-to-connect fittings.
- Secure the connection with a hose clamp if needed.
Once the T-fitting is in place, you can install the new piping to lead to the spigot.
Step 5: Install the Piping to the Outdoor Spigot
After connecting to the main water line, run the new pipe through the exterior wall to the desired spigot location.
Drill a Hole for the Pipe:
- Use a drill with a hole saw to create an opening in the exterior wall.
- Ensure the hole is large enough to accommodate the pipe but not too big to prevent leaks or gaps.
- If running a PEX or copper pipe, install a pipe sleeve to protect it from damage.
Attach the Spigot:
- Wrap Teflon tape around the threads of the spigot to prevent leaks.
- Screw the spigot into a threaded elbow or fitting at the pipe’s exit point.
- Use plumber’s putty or silicone caulk around the spigot’s base to seal gaps.
- Secure the spigot to the wall with mounting screws.
Once the spigot is in place, you can secure the piping inside the wall.
Step 6: Secure and Insulate the Pipes
To prevent leaks, freezing, or damage, secure and insulate the pipe properly:
- Use pipe clamps or brackets to keep the pipe from shifting.
- If installing in a cold climate, use foam insulation to protect against freezing.
- Apply heat tape for extra protection in extreme winter conditions.
A well-secured and insulated pipe ensures long-term durability and prevents future plumbing issues.
Step 7: Install a Shut-Off Valve (Optional but Recommended)
Adding a shut-off valve inside your home allows you to turn off water to the spigot when necessary.
- Install a ball valve or gate valve near where the new pipe connects to the water supply.
- Use threaded fittings for easy removal or replacement.
- Ensure the valve is easily accessible, especially in winter months.
A shut-off valve is particularly useful for winterizing your spigot and preventing freezing.
Step 8: Turn the Water Supply Back On and Test for Leaks
Once everything is connected, it’s time to test your new spigot.
- Turn the water supply back on slowly.
- Check all pipe connections for leaks.
- Tighten any fittings if necessary.
- Turn the spigot on and off to ensure proper water flow.
If there are no leaks and steady water flow, your installation is successful!
Step 9: Maintain Your Water Spigot
To ensure long-lasting performance, follow these maintenance tips:
✅ Winterize the Spigot – Drain water before winter to prevent freezing.
✅ Check for Leaks – Periodically inspect connections for signs of leaks.
✅ Replace Washers & Seals – If the spigot starts dripping, replace the rubber washer inside.
✅ Keep It Clean – Prevent dirt and mineral buildup by cleaning the spigot regularly.
With proper maintenance, your spigot will remain functional and leak-free for years.
Conclusion: Enjoy Your New Water Spigot!
Installing a water spigot is a practical home improvement that enhances outdoor convenience. Whether you need it for gardening, washing your car, or general outdoor use, a well-plumbed spigot ensures a reliable and steady water source.
By following this step-by-step guide, you can successfully plumb a water spigot and enjoy its benefits for years to come. If you encounter challenges, don’t hesitate to consult a professional plumber for assistance.