Is frost free spigot worth it?

What is a frost free spigot?

A frost free spigot, also known as an anti-siphon or non-freeze spigot, is a type of outdoor faucet designed to prevent water inside the spigot from freezing during cold weather. Unlike a standard outdoor faucet, a frost free spigot has a long stem that extends back into the warm area of the house. This allows the water to stay above the frost line so it doesn’t freeze.

The key advantage of a frost free spigot is that it eliminates the need to manually shut off and drain the water line before winter. Standard outdoor faucets require winterization each year to avoid cracked pipes and water damage. Frost free spigots have a built-in valve that automatically drains the standpipe when the water is shut off. This prevents freezing and burst pipes.

How does a frost free spigot work?

Frost free spigots have a longer stem compared to standard outdoor faucets. This stem runs back into the warm interior of the house, keeping the water in the stem above the frost line.

Inside the spigot is a vacuum breaker mechanism. When the spigot handle is turned off, it opens this vacuum breaker, allowing any water remaining in the stem to drain out automatically. This drainage prevents water from freezing inside the stem and causing damage.

The spigot is also designed with insulation around the valve and seat assembly. This further helps prevent freezing and ensures smooth operation even in very cold temperatures.

Benefits of frost free spigots

Here are some of the key benefits of installing frost free spigots:

• Prevents frozen pipes and water damage – No need to remember to shut off and drain water lines before winter.
• Saves time – Eliminates the chore of manually winterizing outdoor faucets each fall.
• More convenient water access – Spigots can remain active and usable even in freezing weather.
• Greater durability – Less risk of damage from expanding ice compared to standard spigots.
• Simple operation – Just turn the handle on or off like a typical faucet.
• Lower maintenance – Frost free models require less upkeep than standard spigots.

For most homeowners in climates with cold, freezing winters, frost free spigots are essential for avoiding plumbing headaches. They’re one of the most convenient outdoor upgrades you can make.

Considerations when choosing a frost free spigot

If you’re considering installing frost free spigots, keep the following tips in mind:

• Lead content – Choose low-lead or no-lead models made from copper, brass, or plastic.
• Style – Available in straight, angled, or flanged designs to fit your home.
• Length – Measure the wall thickness to determine the correct stem length.
• Anti-siphon – Models with a backflow preventer are safer.
• Handle – Lever, cross or wheel handles in various finishes.
• Brands – Choose reputable brands like Woodford, Prier or Arrowhead.
• Warranty – Look for models with at least a 5-year warranty.

Also consider your local climate. In extreme northern areas with long winters, look for spigots rated for -30°F or lower temperatures.

How to install a frost free spigot

Installing a new frost free spigot is an intermediate DIY project that can be completed in a few hours with the right tools and attention to detail. Here are the basic steps:

1. Turn off water supply and drain lines.
2. Remove existing spigot if replacing an old one.
3. Mark and cut a hole in the wall for the new spigot shank.
4. Seal around the shank with silicone or expandable foam.
5. Connect water supply lines securely.
6. Mount the spigot body and attach handle.
7. Test for leaks and turn water back on.
8. Drain spigot before first freeze.

The key is getting the hole sized correctly so the spigot stem extends the right distance into the warm interior wall. Using pipe insulation around the shank provides added cold weather protection.

Hiring a plumber is recommended if you lack experience soldering copper pipes or are uncomfortable cutting into exterior walls. Expect to pay $100-$300 for professional frost free spigot installation.

Maintenance tips

Frost free spigots require minimal maintenance:

• Inspect washers and O-rings annually for wear.
• Check for leaks or drips.
• Turn off water and drain spigot before first freeze each winter.
• Extend spigot life by disconnecting hoses in winter.
• Cover with an insulated spigot cover.
• Avoid hitting or putting excess strain on the stem.

Replacing washers and vacuum breakers every few years will help ensure many years of trouble-free performance.

Cost of frost free spigots

On average, expect to pay $40-$100 for a new frost free spigot. Pricing depends on:

• Brand
• Build material (copper, brass, plastic)
• Style (straight, angled, flanged)
• Length
• Features

Higher priced $70-$100 models from brands like Woodford generally have better performance and durability. Plastic spigots under $50 won’t last as long.

For professional installation, you’ll need to add $100-$300 for labor costs. This makes DIY installation more economical.

Here’s a table comparing installed costs:

Spigot Type	DIY Parts Cost	Professional Install Cost
Basic brass frost free spigot	$50	$250
Copper frost free spigot	$90	$300
Plastic frost free spigot	$40	$200

As you can see, DIY provides significant cost savings, often 50% less than hired installation.

Alternatives to frost free spigots

If you decide against installing true frost free spigots, here are a few alternative options:

• Indoor shut-off valves – Allows manually draining lines from inside.
• Heat tape – Electrically warms pipes to prevent freezing.
• Insulated spigot cover – Provides some freeze protection.
• Temporary removable spigot – Must be taken off in winter.
• RV antifreeze – Adding non-toxic antifreeze lowers freeze point.

However, these all require more work and vigilance compared to a frost free spigot. The key advantage of frost free models is their automated winterization.

Pros of frost free spigots

Here are the top advantages of installing frost free spigots at your home:

• Prevent cracked pipes and leaks
• No special winterization required
• Use spigot year-round
• Reduce risk of water damage
• Save time not draining lines
• More durable than standard spigots
• Simple to operate and maintain

For most homeowners dealing with sub-freezing winter temperatures, the benefits of frost free spigots easily justify their moderately higher cost over standard models. They can save you both time and money in the long run.

Cons of frost free spigots

The drawbacks of frost free spigots include:

• Higher upfront cost
• More difficult DIY installation
• Require keeping faucet open when temperatures rise to thaw
• Vulnerable to freezing if handles are not fully turned off
• Can still freeze in extreme cold if not rated properly
• More costly repairs if vacuum breaker fails

The most significant disadvantage is the higher purchase price compared to standard non-freeze proof models. You’ll also need to take care to fully close the valve for proper winter drainage.

Frost free spigot vs. standard spigot

When deciding between frost free and standard spigots, consider these key differences:

	Standard Spigot	Frost Free Spigot
Winterization required	Yes	No
Freezing risk	High	Low
Year-round use	No	Yes
Upfront cost	Cheap	Moderate
Ongoing maintenance	Low	Low

For most homeowners, the advantages of frost free models easily justify the small added cost. Just be sure to get a spigot with the correct stem length and rated for your winter temperatures.

Conclusion

Installing frost free spigots is a smart upgrade if you live in an area with freezing winter weather. They prevent cracked pipes, leaks, and water damage by keeping the valve and standpipe safely above the frost line. This eliminates the need for manual winterization.

While frost free spigots have a higher upfront cost, they can save you money over time by avoiding costly plumbing repairs. Models from reputable brands like Woodford and Prier work reliably for years with minimal maintenance needed. Going with a DIY install rather than hiring a plumber keeps the project cost effective.

Overall, frost free spigots are well worth the investment for their convenience and peace of mind. No longer having to worry about manually shutting off and draining outdoor spigots before winter is reason enough for many cold climate homeowners. The best part is being able to use the spigots anytime without fear of freezing, even when temperatures dip below freezing.