OUTDOOR SPIGOT REPAIRS & INSTALLATIONS

To replace an outdoor spigot, follow these steps:

• Turn off the water supply to the spigot, usually via an indoor shutoff valve.
• Open the spigot to drain any remaining water.
• Disconnect any attached hoses or accessories.
• Use a wrench to unscrew the spigot from the pipe, turning counterclockwise.
• Apply pipe thread sealant (Teflon tape) to the threads of the new spigot.
• Screw the new spigot onto the pipe, turning it clockwise until it's secure.
• Turn the water supply back on and test the new spigot for leaks.

To fix a leaky outdoor spigot, follow these steps:

• Turn off the water supply to the spigot.
• Disassemble the spigot by removing the handle and the packing nut.
• Inspect the washer, stem, and packing nut for damage or wear.
• Replace any damaged or worn parts with new ones.
• Reassemble the spigot and turn the water supply back on.
• Test the spigot for leaks.

To winterize an outdoor spigot, follow these steps:

• Turn off the water supply to the spigot using the indoor shutoff valve.
• Open the spigot to drain any remaining water.
• Disconnect any attached hoses or accessories.
• Install a faucet cover or insulation to protect the spigot from freezing temperatures.
• For added protection, consider installing a frost-free spigot, which has a longer stem to keep water further away from the cold exterior.

If your outdoor spigot is frozen, follow these steps:

• Turn off the water supply to the spigot using the indoor shutoff valve.
• Gently warm the frozen spigot using a hair dryer, heat lamp, or portable heater. Do not use open flames or high-heat sources.
• As the spigot thaws, open it slightly to allow water to flow and relieve pressure.
• Once the spigot has thawed completely, check for leaks or damage, as freezing can cause pipes to crack or burst.

Consider taking steps to winterize the spigot to prevent future freezing.