Skip to main content

Prepare and Install Elbow Pipes — Install the New Faucet

Beginner4 hours

Part of project

How to Replace an Outdoor Faucet (Spigot/Hose Bibb) · Step 4 of 6

Helpful?

In this video

Take the two 90-degree elbow pipes. Wrap the male threads of each pipe with sealing tape (Teflon tape) two to three times in a clockwise direction. This ensures a watertight seal. Once wrapped, screw the elbow pipes into the hot and cold water outlets on the wall by hand until snug.

Goal: Connect Wall Plumbing

  • Pay close attention to which pipe is hot and which is cold. If the hot and cold water pipes are reversed, the thermostat function may not work properly.
164.5K views4395-10 minutes
This Old House

2.2M subscribers

View Channel

FAQs

How difficult is replacing an outdoor faucet for a beginner, and how long should I expect it to take?

This project is rated as 'beginner' difficulty, making it suitable for those new to DIY plumbing. With proper preparation and the right tools, it typically takes about 4 hours. Most of the time involves careful disconnection, preparation, and leak testing.

What are the most critical safety precautions I need to take before starting this project?

The most crucial step is to shut off the main water supply to your house and drain the lines before beginning. This prevents accidental flooding. Always wear safety glasses and gloves to protect against debris, tools slipping, or contact with old pipes.

What specific tools and materials are essential for this faucet replacement, especially for a stubborn old unit?

Beyond basic tools, you'll definitely need two sturdy pipe wrenches (like the RIDGID 31305 and TradesPro 830914) to safely remove the old faucet without twisting internal pipes. Penetrating oil (Blaster PB) is critical for seized connections, and Teflon tape along with pipe thread sealant (Hercules Real-Tuff) are essential for leak-free installation.

Why is installing a 'frost-proof' faucet recommended, and are there different types or considerations for them?

Frost-proof faucets are highly recommended because they prevent water from freezing and bursting the pipe inside your wall during cold weather, saving you from costly repairs. They come in various lengths, so measure the thickness of your exterior wall to ensure you select one that extends far enough into your house for proper function and drainage.

Transcript
Hide

This is the first time I've ever done this before, so I'm going to show you how to do it.

Auto-generated transcript. May contain errors.