How to Adjust a Frost-Proof Hydrant

All hydrants, including fire hydrants, have water valves deep below the the adjusting nut, lever or wheel.

A frost-proof hydrant is a kind of faucet, usually located near a house, barn or other building, that turns on and off with a hydrant-style valve rather than a conventional faucet valve. Hydrant valves use a long, brass rod to connect the visible valve on top of the hydrant with the actual water valve some distance below. Frost-proof hydrants usually open and close by lifting and lowering a lever rather than turning a round faucet valve. You need to know the exact brand and model of these devices to repair them but they all can be adjusted the same way.

Things You'll Need

• Flat-head screwdriver

Instructions

1. Turn the main water supply to the hydrant off, then completely open the hydrant to relieve water pressure in the device.

2. Loosen the set screw over the brass rod with a flat-head screwdriver.

3. Push the brass rod down completely to ensure the rod sets properly in the water valve.

4. Open the lever type handle about one-quarter open. Completely tighten the set screw.

5. Turn the water supply back on and run the hydrant to ensure proper operation.

References

• Water Source USA; "Frost-Proof Yard Hydrants"
• Metal Onsite; "Frost-Proof Silcock"
• National Center for Biotechnology Information; "Elimination of Frost-Proof Toilets and Hydrants"; Roger O. Olmstead, July 1964