How to Install a Frost-Free Yard Hydrant
Hydrants can be installed in the landscape to provide water to gardens or other areas that require irrigation. A hydrant needs to be frost-proof to prevent freezing of the lines, which may burst the pipes. Failure to bury the hydrant at the correct depth puts delicate parts in danger of freezing. Always check with your local building department before installing a hydrant for pertinent rules that apply to your area. Also, call your utility provider to prevent damaging any power or gas lines. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- Post hole digger
- 90-degree elbow or T-elbow
- PVC primer
- PVC glue
- 1/2-inch gravel
- Shovel
Instructions
-
-
1
Dig a hole that is 2 feet in diameter and below the depth of the frost line in your area with a post hole digger. Dig the hole above the water line run to that location. Contact your local university extension service or department of agriculture to find the frost line for your area as it varies by location across the country.
-
2
Screw a 90-degree elbow onto the end of the water line for the hydrant if it is the last fixture on the line or a T-elbow if another connection needs to be made if using copper. Apply PVC primer to a PVC elbow and allow it to dry. Apply PVC glue to the joint and twist the elbow on. Be quick when applying the elbow; PVC glue makes a strong, unbreakable connection within 20 seconds.
-
-
3
Screw the base of the hydrant into the elbow.
-
4
Fill the bottom of the hole that the hydrant is sitting in with 1/2-inch gravel to aid in drainage around the joint. Fill the hole until the gravel is 3 inches above the drain hole on the hydrant.
-
5
Turn on the hydrant to test it for leaks. If the connection is good, fill the rest of the hole with soil.
-
1
