How to Change an Outside Faucet

A leaking or dripping faucet wastes our planet's natural resources. This will result in higher water bills and/or energy use. Repairing, replacement or disconnection of an existing outside water faucet or "hose bibb" is a simple home improvement project. The time to complete the project is around two hours. The tools and materials needed are readily available at home improvement stores. Do it yourself and avoid paying costly plumbers.

Things You'll Need

• Spud wrenches or pipe wrenches
• Adjustable wrench
• Channel lock pliers
• Wire brush
• Teflon tape or pipe dope
• New hose bibb
• Caulking gun
• Exterior latex caulk
• Mortar mix or concrete patch

Instructions

1. Shut off the water supply to the building. The shut off valve is located on the side of the building or the main water supply valve located inside of the water meter box. If the building is on a private well, the shut off valve's location is near the pump equipment. Verify the water is off by opening the applicable faucet. Allow the faucet to drain and relieve any pressure in the pipes.

2. Attach a spud wrench or pipe wrench to the pipe supplying the hose bibb and tighten it onto the pipe. Attach the adjustable wrench or channel lock pliers to the nut at the base of the hose bibb. Unscrew the faucet in a counterclockwise rotation and remove.

3. Clean the pipe's threading to remove any rust, corrosion or debris. A wire brush easily cleans up the threads. Apply two layers of Teflon tape or pipe dope to the pipe threads to seal the threads and prevent leaks. Thread the new hose bibb in a clockwise rotation onto the pipe. Tighten by hand until snug.

4. Place the adjustable wrench on the nut at the base of the hose bibb. Attach the spud wrench to the supply pipe and tighten the faucet. Make sure the spout points in the desired direction.

5. Turn the water supply back on and check for leaks. If a leak is present, turn the water off and tighten the hose bibb. If this still does not solve the problem, remove the hose bibb and apply more Teflon tape or pipe dope and retighten.

Tips & Warnings

• Make sure the supply pipe does not loosen when removing the hose bibb.

• Mount the hose bibb or supply pipe to the wall.

• Purchase a high quality replacement hose bibb.

References

• Beginners Guide