Learn About The Outside Spigot

Posted on: 12 May 2023

If you look along the exterior wall of your house, you'll find an outdoor faucet that comes out of the wall. This outside faucet is referred to as a "spigot." There are many convenient uses for the spigot, and once you find one use for it, many others may shortly follow. This article will introduce you to some ways you can use the spigot. It will also go over the ways spigots are commonly broken and discuss signs of damage. 

Some common uses for outside spigots

The spigot's outside location makes them very convenient. Also, when you look closely at it, you'll see that it's threaded. The threading plays a very important role, as it allows you to attach the garden hose directly to the spigot. 

Watering: The spigot makes it easy for you to water your potted plants. Also, by attaching the garden hose, you can water any flower beds or other foliage that your sprinkler system isn't capable of reaching. 

Dog washing: If you have a large dog, then giving them a bath in the bathtub might not be possible. Even if it is, it could result in a wet dog shaking water throughout the house as they try to escape the rest of the bath. Instead, choose a hot day, put the dog on a leash, and wash them with a hose at the spigot. 

Dog water: You may worry that the dog will tip over its water bowl on a hot day while you're not home and won't have drinking water. If so, the spigot offers you a convenient, safe, and easy way to ensure your dog never runs out of water. They sell adapters for the spigot that allow your dog to get water when they lick it. This way, you know they'll have access to water at all times. 

Possible causes of spigot damage

By knowing what can cause damage to the spigot, you can prevent it from happening in the future. Some things that can cause problems include: 

  • Freezing temperatures when pipes aren't properly insulated
  • Physical impact from the lawnmower, bicycles, etc. 
  • Rust and corrosion
  • Water pressure that's too high
  • Age and neglect

Signs the spigot may need to be repaired

If something happens to the spigot, you want the problem fixed right away. The longer the spigot goes without being fixed, the more water you could be wasting. Or, water may be leaking where you can't see it and causing water damage and/or mosquito infestations. 

The spigot is leaking: If the spigot is leaking and you can't get it to stop by tightening the knob, then it needs to be repaired as soon as possible. 

The wall is wet: If the wall around the spigot is wet, even when the spigot hasn't been used recently, then this indicates a leak further down. It's likely behind the wall, and this is serious and needs to be fixed right away. 

The spigot wiggles: If you can wiggle the spigot, then it needs to be repaired. It's supposed to be soundly in place and not have any movement. Any time you feel the spigot has issues, you should have the plumber come out. 

For more info about outdoor spigots, contact a local company. 

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