How to Install a Frost-Proof Faucet

Introduction

Installing a frost-proof faucet can help prevent pipes from freezing and bursting during cold winter months. Frost-proof faucets are designed with an extended shaft that allows the inner waterway to be seated deeper inside the warm house, while the outer spigot is located on the exterior wall where it is exposed to freezing temperatures. This keeps the water running through the faucet from freezing.

Replacing an old hose bib or standard outdoor faucet with a new frost-proof model is a straightforward DIY project for most homeowners. The basic steps include turning off the water supply, removing the old faucet, installing new connections and fittings, attaching the new frost-proof faucet, and turning the water back on to test for leaks.

This article will provide a complete step-by-step guide on how to install a frost-proof faucet correctly. We’ll cover the tools required, materials needed, safety tips, and installation steps in detail. Follow along to learn the basics of frost-proof faucet replacement.

How to Install a Frost-Proof Faucet

Materials and Tools Needed

Before starting any plumbing project, it’s important to gather all the necessary materials and tools ahead of time. Here’s what you’ll need to install a new frost-proof outdoor faucet:

Frost-proof faucet kit (includes faucet, sleeves, screws, washers)
Adjustable wrenches (2)
Pipe wrench
Teflon tape
Plumber’s putty
Flashlight
Bucket
Rag
Safety glasses

Additional materials may be required if you have to replace any connecting pipes or fittings between the faucet and main water supply. These parts are usually included in the faucet kit, but it’s best to inspect beforehand.

Shutting Off the Water Supply

The first step is to shut off the indoor water supply to the outdoor faucet. This is critical to prevent water from spewing out when you remove the old spigot.

Locate the shut-off valve that controls the water flow to the faucet line. It’s usually near where the pipe exits the house.
Turn the valve clockwise until it’s completely closed.
Turn on the outdoor faucet briefly to drain any residual water and relieve pressure.
Disconnect and drain the hoses.

Once the water is fully shut off, you can start removing the old freeze-proof faucet.

Removing the Existing Faucet

With the water supply disconnected, carefully remove the old outdoor faucet:

Use a flashlight to inspect the faucet mounts behind the exterior wall. Look for screw heads to loosen.
Loosen any mounting screws or bolts with adjustable wrenches or pliers.
Wiggle the faucet gently side-to-side while pulling outward to remove it.
Use a bucket to catch any remaining water that drips out of the open faucet line.

Also remove any backflow preventer, valve, or other connecting hardware. You may need to use a pipe wrench for stuck fittings. Clean the end of the open pipe with a dry rag.

Installing the New Faucet

Now you’re ready for the new frost-proof faucet installation:

Apply plumber’s putty around the base of the new faucet. This seals the connection to the wall.
Insert the new faucet tailpiece into the open pipe end. Make sure it’s seated fully.
Position the faucet base firmly against the exterior wall over the putty.
Attach and tighten the mounting screws or bolts securely on the interior wall. Don’t overtighten.
Wrap all threaded fittings with Teflon tape. This prevents leaks.
Connect any additional extension pipes or backflow preventers using wrenches.

The new frost-proof faucet should now be mounted in place on the outer wall. Next you need to restore the water supply.

Turning the Water Back On

With the new spigot fully installed, carefully turn the water supply back on:

Remove any debris or tools from the work area.
Locate the main shut-off valve and turn it counterclockwise to open.
Check for leaks at all fittings, seals and pipe connections. Tighten if needed.
Slowly turn on the new outdoor faucet. Inspect for drips.
Let the water run for a few minutes to clear any sediment.
Turn the faucet off once the water runs clean.

If no leaks occur, the new frost-proof faucet is ready for use! You may need to make minor adjustments to ensure it’s aligned properly on the wall.

Helpful Tips and Precautions

Here are some additional pointers to keep in mind for a safe and successful installation:

Always shut off main water supply before removing old faucet.
Discharge pressure and drain all pipes completely.
Check existing pipe condition. Replace if necessary.
Apply plumber’s putty generously to seal faucet base.
Don’t overtighten mounting bolts or connections.
Wrap all threaded fittings with Teflon tape.
Open supply valves slowly to check for leaks.
Make sure the new faucet shaft is deep enough.
Insulate any exposed pipes to prevent freezing.

Taking proper precautions will help prevent leaks, damage, and other problems down the road. The new frost-proof faucet should then provide years of trouble-free performance.

Frost-Proof Faucet Design and Function

Now that you know the basic process for how to install a frost-proof faucet, it helps to understand what makes these outdoor water spigots “frost-proof” in the first place.

Frost-proof faucets have a longer shaft design that extends the inner waterway deeper inside the warm house, beyond the frosty exterior wall. This keeps the running water protected from freezing temperatures.

Here are some key features that allow frost-proof outdoor faucets to work safely through winter:

Long Vent Shaft

The key advantage of frost-proof faucets is the long hollow vent shaft that connects the inner and outer components:

The inner valve assembly sits warm within the house insulation.
The outer spigot extends through the exterior wall.
The vent shaft separates the two, typically 12 – 24 inches long.
Water flows through this insulated cavity, protected from freezing.

This long shaft is what distinguishes frost-proof models from standard hose bibs. The extended design keeps water flowing smoothly all winter.

Vacuum Breaker

Another important feature is the integrated vacuum breaker near the tip of the vent shaft:

This small metal disc seals off the hollow cavity when not in use.
It prevents cold exterior air from entering the shaft and freezing the standing water.
When the faucet is turned on, water pressure pushes the disc open to allow flow.
It “breaks” any vacuum seal when the faucet is activated.

The vacuum breaker closes automatically when the water is shut off, resealing the protected shaft.

Dual O-Ring Seals

High-quality frost-proof faucets also use rubber O-ring seals to prevent leaks:

Dual O-rings create tight waterproof seals at both ends of the shaft.
This keeps exterior air and moisture from infiltrating the inner cavity.
O-rings last longer than flimsy washers before needing replacement.
They allow the faucet shaft to flex slightly without compromising the seals.

Dual O-rings help maintain the fully frozen-proof capabilities over time. They provide an extra layer of protection against leaks.

Solid Brass Construction

Finally, top-rated frost-proof faucets are made of solid brass:

Brass is naturally rust and corrosion resistant.
It’s also stronger than plastic to withstand freezing pressure.
Solid brass faucets will last for many years outdoors.
Plastic parts can crack over time and cause leaking issues.

Solid brass is the ideal material for maximum durability in harsh outdoor conditions. It’s built to last through many freezing winters without fail.

Understanding the internal workings of frost-proof faucets will help you select the highest-quality models and maintain their freezing protection over time.

Troubleshooting Common Problems

Even the best frost-proof faucets may occasionally develop issues that require troubleshooting. Here are some of the most common problems and solutions:

Faucet Leaks from End of Spout

If water drips from the end of the faucet spout when shut off, the likely issue is a damaged O-ring seal inside the vacuum breaker. To fix:

Shut off the water supply and relieve pressure.
Unscrew the spigot head and remove the vacuum breaker.
Replace the O-ring with an exact match.
Reassemble the vacuum breaker and spigot.
Turn water back on and test.

Worn or cracked O-rings are the most common cause of frost-proof faucet leaks. Replacing the internal seals typically fixes drip issues.

Water Leaks from Behind Wall

Leaks coming from inside the wall around the faucet are often caused by loose mounting bolts or cracked putty seal. Try this:

Shut off water supply and drain the line.
Tighten all mounting bolts securely.
Add fresh plumber’s putty around the base and smooth evenly.
Turn water back on and check for leaks.
Repeat if leaks persist.

Retightening mounts and resealing the base plate is often all that’s needed to stop wall leakage.

Faucet Handle Sticks When Turned

If the spigot handle becomes stiff and difficult to turn, mineral deposits may be interfering with the inner valve operation. To restore smooth performance:

Remove faucet handle and unscrew the valve cartridge.
Soak the valve in vinegar overnight to dissolve deposits.
Rinse valve thoroughly before reinstalling.
Replace cartridge if still stuck.

Cleaning mineral buildup from the internal valve parts can bring the handle back to easy, smooth turning.

Water Drips Inside After Faucet Use

Slow drips from the end of the vacant faucet shaft are normal as residual water drains back down the line. But steady dripping could mean the inner vacuum breaker needs replacement:

Remove spigot head and extract the vacuum breaker unit.
Inspect for corrosion or failed seal.
Replace vacuum breaker if compromised.
A new vacuum breaker restores the watertight seal.

Installing a fresh vacuum breaker is an easy solution to persistent internal dripping issues.

With proper maintenance and occasional troubleshooting, a quality frost-proof faucet should provide decades of trouble-free winter water access.

Winterizing Frost-Proof Faucets

Frost-proof faucets are designed to keep working through freezing conditions. But some additional winterizing steps can further extend their cold weather performance.

Here are a few tips for getting outdoor faucets ready for harsh winter weather:

Insulate Exposed Pipes

Insulating any exposed water pipes leading to the faucet can help prevent freezing in sub-zero temperatures.

Use slit foam tubing to cover all exposed plumbing.
Seal small gaps with silicone caulk to keep out drafts.
For minimal exposed pipe, wrap with heat tape made for plumbing.

Insulation reduces the chance of dangerously frozen water lines.

Install Heat Cable

For extreme cold climates, install an electric heat cable wrap along the faucet shaft and supply pipes.

The self-regulating cable only heats when needed to maintain temperature above freezing.
Wrap the cable according to product directions to ensure safe operation.
Plug the power cord into an outdoor GFCI outlet.

Heat cables provide affordable freeze protection for vulnerable plumbing.

Disconnect All Hoses

Removing any connected hoses, splitters, or other attachments for winter prevents freezing vulnerabilities.

Disconnect all hoses from the outdoor faucets.
Store hoses indoors throughout winter months.
Remove any leaking or cracked nozzles.
Eliminate all potential weak points.

Taking off hoses removes additional failure points that can crack and leak from freezing.

Shut Off and Drain

If leaving the house vacant for an extended winter period, shut down the faucet completely.

Turn off the interior water supply valve.
Open the outdoor faucet to drain remaining water.
Consider adding RV antifreeze to the drain line.
Wrap or cover the outdoor faucet.

Fully winterizing is wise if no one is home to monitor and maintain the faucet all season.

Regular Maintenance

Routine faucet maintenance ensures everything is in proper working order before winter hits.

Inspect seals and supply lines for drips or cracks.
Make any needed valve, O-ring or gasket repairs.
Test the faucet to ensure easy operation.
Caulk around base to seal any gaps or cracks.

Well maintained frost-proof faucets can operate smoothly all winter long without freezing up.

Conclusion

Installing a frost-proof faucet is an easy DIY project that can save you from the mess and disaster of burst water pipes in winter. Frost-proof models allow exterior access to water, even when temperatures dip below freezing.

The key is the elongated frost-proof design that separates the inner and outer faucet components with an insulated vent shaft. This keeps the vulnerable waterway inside the warm house rather than exposed on the outside wall. Integrated vacuum breakers and durable O-ring seals maintain the frozen-proof capabilities for years.

Following the step-by-step installation guide provided above will ensure your new frost-proof faucet is positioned correctly and securely mounted. Take precautions when turning the water supply back on to check for leaks. Some added insulation and winterizing preparations can further maximize the faucet’s cold weather performance.

With routine maintenance and proper installation, a quality frost-proof faucet should provide many seasons of reliable, freeze-free outdoor water access. Never again worry about frozen or burst pipes when the temperatures take a frigid dip. Stay toasty indoors while easily operating your protected outdoor faucet all winter long.