Learn How to Install a Freeze Resistant Anti-Siphon Outdoor Faucet
Few things are as frustrating as turning on your outdoor faucet only to be met with a trickle of water or nothing at all. In cold weather climates, frozen and burst pipes are a common winter nuisance. Investing in a freeze proof outdoor faucet can provide year-round outdoor water access without fear of frozen pipes. We'll walk through the installation process, from choosing the right faucet to winterizing for maximum protection. With the right materials and following key steps, you can install a freeze proof anti-siphon faucet on your own.
A properly installed freeze proof outdoor faucet prevents water from freezing in the stem pipe leading outside thanks to a shutoff valve located in a warmer indoor location. This shutoff valve, combined with a vacuum breaker to prevent backflow, gives you reliable and consistent outdoor water flow even when temperatures plunge.
Assemble the Necessary Materials
Installing a freeze proof outdoor faucet requires just a few key materials:
- Freeze proof faucet with integrated anti-siphon valve
- Indoor shutoff valve compatible with your faucet choice
- Stem pipe designed for your faucet model
- Fittings to connect the valve and faucet
- Silicone sealant for a waterproof joint
- Wood screws or masonry anchors to secure the faucet base
- Drill with appropriate sized bit
- Adjustable wrenches
You'll also need to turn off your main indoor water supply and drain your pipes before beginning the installation process.
Install the Indoor Shutoff Valve
Choosing the right location for your shutoff valve is crucial to get maximum freeze protection. The valve should be installed in an indoor location protected from freezing cold, like a basement or crawl space. Cut into the wall and install the shutoff valve assembly on your main water supply line according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Once secured, attach one end of the stem pipe to the shutoff valve. This long stem pipe will eventually connect to the outdoor faucet handle to keep water flowing freely.
Run the Stem Pipe Outdoors
With your water supply off, drill a hole in your exterior wall large enough to accommodate the stem pipe. Angle the hole slightly downward to allow for drainage. Carefully feed the stem pipe through the hole until the base of the faucet is flush with the outer wall.
Take care not to kink the pipe. Leaving a little slack allows for expansion and contraction. If desired, you can insulate around the pipe with foam on the interior wall for added freeze protection.
Install the Outdoor Faucet
With the faucet base flat against the outer wall, apply silicone sealant around the edges to create a watertight seal. Secure the faucet base into place with either wood screws or masonry anchors drilled into the siding or wall exterior.
Connect the end of the stem pipe protruding from the wall to the bottom of the faucet. Attach the anti-siphon valve and hose bibb according to manufacturer specifications. The valve fitting typically screws into the faucet body.
Complete the Job
With all parts assembled securely, turn your main water supply back on and check carefully for any leaks at joints or valves. Tighten as needed. Give the handle a turn and verify normal water flow from the faucet spigot.
You may notice a burst of air or spurts at first as the system adjusts and purges trapped air bubbles. Let the water run for a few minutes to normalize flow. Your new freeze proof outdoor faucet should function beautifully year-round!
Troubleshooting Common Problems
Should any issues arise after installation, here are some troubleshooting tips:
- If water leaks from around the stem pipe, try tightening the seal or apply additional caulk
- If faucet spray is uneven or spurting, check for blockages or air pockets and let it run
- A constantly dripping anti-siphon valve likely needs a new rubber gasket installed
Winterizing Your Outdoor Faucet
While freeze proof outdoor faucets reduce the risk of frozen pipes, additional winterizing can provide maximum protection. Before extreme cold hits, shut off your outdoor faucet water supply and disconnect any hoses or appliances.
Open the faucet to drain remaining water from the pipes. Consider wrapping outdoor pipes in insulating foam. A bit of winterization will ensure your new faucet provides years of dependable service.
Installing your own freeze proof outdoor faucet armed with the right materials and following key steps is a straightforward DIY project. With the shutoff valve and stem pipe safely located indoors, you can rest easy knowing your outdoor faucet will resist freezing.
No more worrying about burst pipes or damage from expanding ice come winter. Investing in a freeze proof faucet provides reliable, consistent outdoor water flow all year long. Just remember to take a few extra winterization precautions before extreme cold sets in.