How to Install a Freeze Proof Faucet

One of the best inventions for those of us living in parts prone to freezing, is a freeze proof faucet. Anti-siphon, frost-proof sill cock faucets offer a range of benefits, including stopping unsanitary water from contaminating your potable water system, and preventing water lines from becoming frozen. While these faucets are designed specifically to prevent water from freezing inside valves or pipes, sometimes theses faucets can be damaged by frost. When that happens, you will need to replace or repair the faucet.

Replacing the Frost Free Faucet

In order to replace a frost free faucet, you will need to know the exact length of your existing faucet. Sizing the faucet can be complex because you need to see the entire faucet to be able to measure it. It's usually easier to remove the old one and take it along to the plumbing supply store to buy the exact same size.

Here are the steps to replacing your frost free faucet. Read the instructions carefully to ensure that all is in order before you start removing faucets.

1. Shut off the water supply to your home, and double check that it is indeed off. Remember that the water will be off for a while, so make alternative arrangements for the family's water use for the morning.

2. Remove the screws that secure the faucet to the wall. Anchor screws are meant to restrict movement. The screws will prevent you from disconnecting the other side of your faucet, so you will have to remove any paint or caulking that prevents the frost free faucet from turning.

3. Disconnect the faucet, possibly from under the house. If it runs into the wall, you will probably need to cut an access panel to get to the connection. It's great to have help with this, because you will need two adjustable wrenches or pliers to disconnect the faucet. One of the pliers should be used to support the water line, while the other is used to unscrew the valve from its housing. If the faucet is soldered onto the water line, you will have to cut it off and install an adapter, such as a gator bite or sharkbite fitting.

4. Remove the faucet. You can now pull the faucet from the wall and take it to the plumbing supply store to buy a new one. Be sure to get an exact match.

5. Install the new frost-free faucet by applying Teflon tape to the threads of your new faucet, and feeding the faucet into the opening. Be careful while screwing the new valve back into position to avoid cross threading it. Hold against the water line adapter to ensure that you are not moving. Again, use one set of plier on the faucet and another on the water line.

6. Test your installation by turning on the water supply and testing for leaks. Repair any leaks, and screw the freeze proof faucet into place on the wall to create an anchor.

Some plumbing jobs are simple, such as unblocking a minor clogged drain. But if you're having any issues, it is a good idea to call in Anta Plumbing, particularly for complex jobs such as installing a freeze proof faucet.