When it comes to your home’s plumbing, the outside spigot, also known as a hose bib or outdoor faucet, plays a vital role. Whether you’re watering your garden, washing your car, or filling up a kiddie pool, a functional outdoor faucet is a must. But what happens when that trusty spigot starts to leak or malfunction? Should you repair it or replace it entirely? At Aqua Knight Plumbing, we’re here to help you make the right decision!
When to Repair Your Outside Spigot
A leaky or dripping spigot can be annoying, but it doesn’t always mean a full replacement is necessary. Here are a few instances where a repair might do the trick:
- Minor Leaks: If your fixture is leaking from the handle or connection point, it could be as simple as replacing a washer or tightening a loose connection.
- Stiff Handle: If the handle is hard to turn, a little lubrication or replacing the stem packing could resolve the issue.
- Low Water Pressure: Sometimes, low water pressure can be fixed by cleaning out sediment or debris that has built up inside the spigot.
When to Replace Your Outside Spigot
There are times when a repair just won’t cut it, and replacing the spigot is the better option:
- Extensive Corrosion: If your spigot is old and corroded, it’s likely time for a new one. Corrosion can lead to further issues down the line, including leaks and water damage.
- Persistent Leaks: If you’ve tried to fix a leak multiple times with no success, it might be more cost-effective to replace the spigot entirely.
- Upgrading: Want to upgrade to a frost-free spigot? These are designed to prevent freezing in colder climates, which can save you from costly repairs in the future.
The Installation Process
Whether you’re repairing or replacing, it’s important to ensure the job is done correctly to avoid future problems. Here’s a quick overview of what’s involved:
- Shut Off the Water: Before any work begins, the water supply to the spigot must be turned off.
- Disconnect the Spigot: For a repair, this might involve taking apart the existing spigot. For a replacement, the old spigot will be removed entirely.
- Install the New or Repaired Spigot: If you’re replacing it, a new spigot will be attached to the existing plumbing. For repairs, the necessary parts will be installed, and the spigot will be reassembled.
- Test for Leaks: Once everything is back in place, the water supply is turned on, and the spigot is tested to ensure it’s functioning properly.
Trust Aqua Knight Plumbing with Your Outdoor Plumbing Needs
Whether you need a quick repair or a complete replacement, Aqua Knight Plumbing is here to help. Our expert technicians will assess the situation and recommend the best course of action to keep your outdoor water source in top shape. Don’t let a leaky spigot ruin your summer fun—give us a call today at 630-755-0583!
With this guide, you’ll be well-equipped to decide whether to repair or replace your outside spigot, ensuring you have a reliable water source for all your outdoor activities.
