Uncover the Key Parts That Make Your Outdoor Spigot Function
Outdoor spigots, sometimes called outdoor faucets, are extremely useful for a variety of tasks like watering plants, washing cars, or filling pools. But when something goes wrong and you need to troubleshoot leaks or other issues, it helps to understand the key parts that make up this important exterior fixture.
We'll also look at some additional features like backflow prevention valves and drip arcs you may find on certain models. Whether you want to make minor repairs or just satisfy your curiosity about how your outdoor spigot functions, read on for an in-depth look at the critical pieces that bring water to your exterior walls.
What Is an Outdoor Spigot and Why Should You Learn About Its Parts?
An outdoor spigot, also referred to as an outdoor faucet, is a water fixture mounted to the exterior wall of a home or building. It connects to the interior plumbing system and features a handle-operated spout that dispenses water for gardening, washing tasks, and various outdoor needs.
Getting familiar with the parts that make up your outdoor spigot is useful for several reasons:
- Diagnose issues - Understanding components helps pinpoint source of leaks.
- Make basic repairs - Replace washers, seals without replacing whole unit.
- Prevent water damage - Catch problems early before they lead to costly issues.
- Extend lifespan - With proper maintenance, spigots can last over 10 years.
Main Components of Outdoor Faucets
While styles and designs vary, most standard outdoor spigots contain a common set of key internal and external components that work in concert to control water flow. Here are some of the critical pieces.
Supply Pipe
The supply pipe brings water from the indoor plumbing system out to the exterior spigot. Copper, galvanized steel, and PVC are common materials used for the supply line. This pipe threads through the wall and connects to the spigot's interior housing, delivering water from inside the home.
Exterior Wall Mount
The wall mount secures the spigot assembly firmly to the outside wall. A sturdy metal bracket holds all the components in place and is essential for keeping vibrations or tugs on the fixture from damaging plumbing connections.
Faucet Housing
The faucet housing, or body, is a box-like casing that encloses all the critical inner workings of valves, washers, spindles and other parts that control water flow through the spigot. This protective shell has an opening to allow access to the operating handle and spout.
Spigot/Spout
The spigot, also called a spout or nozzle, is the portion that physically dispenses water with the turn of the handle. Spigots have an open-and-close lever handle or rotating knob. Some also have hose thread connectors for attaching garden hoses and accessories.
Inner Components
Inside the protective housing lie several small but vital components that form the control valve to start and stop water flow with precision.
Stem & Washers
The stem is the shaft the handle moves to lift/lower a washer and control water flow. Stem washers, typically rubber or ceramic, seal the water inlet when in resting position. Lifting the washer with the stem opens the supply valve.
Packing String
The packing string sits around the stem under the handle and consists of one or more rubber washers that form a watertight seal to prevent handle joint leaks. Packing washers wear out over time.
Valve Seat
At the base of the stem is a rubber or plastic valve seat washer. This gasket seals off the inlet opening when the faucet is closed, and unseals when open, letting water enter and exit through the spigot.
Additional Outdoor Spigot Features
Along with the standard components above, some outdoor faucets contain extra functions like backflow prevention, drip control, and freeze protection.
Antisiphon Valve
An antisiphon spigot has a special check valve and air gap system built into its housing. This prevents contaminated water from flowing backwards into clean household supply lines during gardening or bucket filling tasks.
Gaskets
Gaskets provide the watertight seal between the spigot housing and exterior wall mount plate. Over time, weather and age can cause gaskets to fail, allowing moisture behind the wall. Replacing torn or swollen gaskets prevents leaks.
Drip Arc
Some spigots feature a graceful metal arc at their outlet. This drip edge catches excess water run-off and redirects it to the ground when the faucet is turned on, preventing puddles and slippery conditions beneath the fixture.
Repairing Common Outdoor Spigot Leaks
Two areas prone to developing leaks on external water faucets are around the spigot itself and near the operating handle. Diagnosing the exact location of moisture buildup is key to fixing the issue.
Identifying Leak Types
- Spigot Leaks - Water escaping from the spout indicates failing inlet valve washers inside the housing. Replace valve seat or stem washer and packing string.
- Handle Leaks - Moisture around the handle joints means worn handle seal washers. Replace handle packing washers.
With basic DIY skills, you can replace individual spigot parts like washers and seals to fix many leaks instead of replacing the entire fixture. Useful replacement parts include:
- Stem washers
- Packing washers
- Gaskets
Learning about the components that make up your outdoor spigot helps you diagnose problems, make repairs, and keep your exterior water source functioning smoothly for years of reliable service.