What can I use instead of a water key?

If you don’t have access to a water key, there are a few alternative options you can use to turn on outdoor spigots or hydrants. A water key is a specialized tool used to turn on/off outdoor water spigots that have been shut off for the winter. But if you find yourself needing to access water and don’t have a water key handy, try some of these methods instead:

Adjustable Wrench or Pliers

An adjustable wrench or pliers can sometimes work to loosen and open a shut off spigot. Simply place the jaws of the wrench or pliers over the spigot nut and turn counter clockwise. This may take some muscle but can often work if you don’t have the specific water key tool. Just be careful not to strip the nut by applying too much pressure.

Screwdriver

Using a sturdy flathead or Phillips head screwdriver, wedge the tip firmly into the spigot opening and turn counter clockwise to loosen. The screwdriver can help get enough grip and leverage to loosen the valve inside. Again, take care not to completely round off the opening when inserting and twisting the screwdriver.

Socket Wrench

If you happen to have the right sized socket that fits over the spigot nut, a socket wrench can supply ample leverage for turning and opening the valve. Place the socket over the nut and use the wrench to turn counter clockwise.

Pipe Wrench

A pipe wrench has very strong gripping jaws that can clamp down on the spigot nut and twist it open. Position the jaws securely over the nut and turn counter clockwise. The serrated teeth will help grab and turn even rounded off nuts.

Locking Pliers

Locking pliers like Vise-Grips can get a very firm grip on the spigot nut for turning. Adjust the pliers so the grip closes tightly on the nut, then turn counter clockwise while maintaining downward pressure.

Hammer and Chisel

If you need to access a rusted or stuck spigot and none of the above options work, a hammer and chisel can provide extra force. Position the chisel tip on the spigot nut and strike firmly with the hammer in a counter clockwise direction to break the nut free. This is obviously risky and a last resort, so use care not to damage the spigot.

Spigot Key

Some spigots come with a small valve key that fits into holes or notches in the spigot nut. This key is designed specifically for that spigot unit, so check to see if the manufacturer provided this option. Insert the key and turn counter clockwise.

Spigot Handle

Some spigots have a handle built into the side of the unit. The handle may fold down or flip up into an off position. Simply flip the handle back down into an open position to turn the water on.

Call a Plumber

If you’ve tried all other options without success, calling a professional plumber is wise rather than risking damage to the spigot or water lines. They will have the proper water key and other tools to safely open the shut off valve.

Prevent Freeze Damage

To avoid needing makeshift water key alternatives in the future, take steps to prevent outdoor spigots from freezing in winter. Some tips include:

• Insulating pipes and spigot with foam covers
• Disconnect hoses and installing freeze-proof valves
• Letting spigots drip during freezing temps
• Closing shutoff valves inside before cold weather

Conclusion

While a proper water key is the best tool for opening a shut off outdoor spigot, in a pinch you can often get by with basic tools like pliers or wrenches. Just take care not to damage the valve. Preventing freeze damage in the first place will save you the trouble of needing any type of key at all.

Here are some key takeaways on water key alternatives:

• Adjustable wrenches, pliers or vice grips can turn the spigot nut
• Screwdrivers and socket wrenches provide extra leverage
• Pipe wrenches and locking pliers grip tightly
• Hammer and chisel provide extreme force if needed
• Some spigots have built-in keys or handles
• Calling a plumber is best if other methods don’t work

With some creativity and muscle, you can likely open a shutoff spigot without a water key tool. But taking preventative winterizing steps will make the need for any alternative methods unnecessary.

Here is a table summarizing the pros and cons of various water key alternatives:

Method	Pros	Cons
Adjustable wrench	Easy to use Provides decent grip	May round off nut Not as much torque
Screwdriver	Extra leverage Wedges into opening	Risks damage to opening Not as stable
Socket wrench	Very solid grip if correct size Ratcheting action for torque	Needs specific socket size Can round off nut
Pipe wrench	Strong serrated jaws Won’t slip off nut	Bulkier to use Potential to damage
Locking pliers	Tight grip won’t slip Compact size	Difficult to position Lower torque ability
Hammer and chisel	Can break free a stuck nut	High risk of damage Difficult control

As you can see, each water key alternative has trade-offs to consider. The best option depends on the specific spigot style and situation. But taking preventive steps to avoid frozen pipes and valves is always preferable to needing any sort of key at all.

Some additional tips when using water key substitutes:

• Wrap pipes with towels if you need to use force to avoid damage
• Turn slowly and stop if you encounter a lot of resistance
• Use penetrating oil if rust is present around the nut
• Always turn counter clockwise to open outward threading
• Make sure valve is fully open once loosened

Following these guidelines and using the right alternative for your situation can allow you to successfully get the water flowing again when caught without a proper water key tool. The ideas presented give you a variety of options to try when faced with turning on a shutoff spigot or hydrant. With some creative thinking and muscle, you can likely avoid having to call a plumber for such a basic need as accessing outdoor water taps.