Selecting the best frost proof outdoor faucet for your home can be a daunting task with so many options on the market. As an experienced homeowner, you want to choose a high-quality faucet that can withstand freezing temperatures and last for years to come. I’m here to walk you through the key factors to consider when shopping for the optimal frost proof faucet, provide recommendations on top-rated models, and share tips on proper installation and maintenance. With this comprehensive guide, you’ll gain the knowledge needed to find the perfect outdoor faucet for your unique needs and climate.
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What is a Frost Proof Outdoor Faucet?
A frost proof outdoor faucet, also known as a freeze proof or anti-freeze faucet, is designed to prevent water inside the faucet from freezing in cold weather conditions. This type of faucet has a long stem that extends deeper into your home’s warmer interior temperature zone. Standard outdoor faucets have a shorter stem which allows water to freeze inside the valve and cause cracking or leaks.
Key features of a frost proof faucet include:
- Longer stem: Extends at least 16-24 inches inside your home’s insulated wall to keep the water flow away from freezing air temperatures.
- Vacuum breaker: Releases water pressure inside the faucet to prevent freeze damage.
- Insulating foam: Surrounds the stem and backflow preventer for added freeze protection.
- Durable brass or stainless steel construction.
- Shut-off valve: Allows you to shut off water from inside when temperatures drop.
With these integral design elements, the best frost proof faucets allow continued outdoor water access even when temperatures plummet below freezing.
Benefits of a Frost Proof Faucet
Installing a dedicated frost proof faucet in your outdoor water system provides a variety of benefits:
- Prevents frozen pipes and leaks: Since water is drained from the faucet, you won’t have to deal with burst pipes, cracked valves, and leaks during winter.
- Saves money: Avoiding frozen pipe repairs can save you hundreds of dollars in plumbers fees and water damage costs.
- Provides year-round access: You can utilize your outdoor faucet in any season without worrying about winter weather.
- Easy to operate: Just flip the lever or knob on the faucet to start and stop water flow.
- Durable performance: Heavy-duty construction and quality materials allow for long-lasting use.
- Low maintenance: Frost proof models require minimal upkeep when properly installed.
Installing a dedicated frost free faucet is one of the wisest investments you can make for your home’s outdoor water system. The small upfront cost is well worth the money saved on preventing costly repairs and enjoying reliable access.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Frost Proof Faucet
With a wide variety of frost proof faucet models and brands on the market, it’s important to assess your specific needs and home setup to select the best option. Here are the key factors to consider:
Intended Use
How do you plan to use your outdoor faucet? Will it supply a garden hose, drain for a swimming pool, water to outdoor landscaping, or a combination of uses? The required water flow and pressure capabilities will help determine what faucet you need.
Installation Location
Choose a frost proof faucet designed for your intended installation location:
- Wall mount: Install directly on an exterior wall. Choose a faucet with a 16-18 inch stem.
- Ground mount: Install on ground stakes near foundations. Requires a faucet with an extra long 24-30 inch stem.
Measure the thickness of your wall to ensure the stem will extend properly into the interior insulation.
Materials
Outdoor faucets are available in:
- Brass: Most common material that is corrosion resistant. May be finished with chrome, bronze, nickel, or powder coating.
- Stainless steel: Most durable and longest lasting finish.
- Plastic: More affordable but prone to damage from UV exposure.
Choose brass or stainless steel for maximum longevity in outdoor environments.
Valve Type
Frost proof faucets have valve types including:
- Compression: Rotating handle screws down onto rubber washer for water flow.
- Cartridge or ceramic disc: Rotate cartridge or disc for smooth drip-free operation.
- Ball valve: Rotating lever or knob with slots to control water.
- Gate valve: Raise or lower a gate mechanism to start and stop flow.
Compression and cartridge valves tend to provide the most reliable drip-free performance.
Ease of Installation
Consider a frost proof faucet designed for straightforward DIY installation with included hardware and clear instructions if you plan to install it yourself. Compression valve types are typically easier to install than cartridge or ceramic options.
Extra Features
Look for convenience features like:
- Built-in locks to prevent unauthorized use.
- Backflow prevention devices.
- Multi-turn valves for precise water flow control.
- 12-16 inch pull-down spouts for added reach.
Budget
Frost free faucets range from $30 on the low end to $300 or more for commercial-grade models. Set a budget and look for the most durable faucet you can afford that meets your technical needs.
Recommendations for the Best Frost Proof Faucets
Based on performance, features, ease of installation, and overall value, here are my top recommendations for frost proof outdoor faucets:
Woodford Model 19
This is my top overall pick for residential homes. Key features include:
- Durable brass construction with polished chrome finish.
- Non-freeze compression valve.
- 6-12 inch adjustable stem length.
- Attached vacuum breaker.
- Easy to install wall mount design.
- Locking mechanism for security.
- 25 year limited warranty.
This faucet provides the performance and quality to become a fixture you can rely on year after year. The compression valve ensures smooth operation free of drips.
Woodford Model 17CP
A more affordable option from Woodford that maintains excellent frost proof design. Highlights include:
- Polished chrome plated brass construction.
- 8-16 inch adjustable stem.
- Compression valve technology.
- Built-in vacuum breaker.
- Wall mount installation.
- 5 year limited warranty.
This is a great choice if you’re looking for Woodford’s signature quality in a more budget-friendly package.
Prier C-204-WH Anti-Freeze Wall Faucet
For an ultra-affordable frost free faucet, this Prier model is a great option. Features include:
- Plastic construction.
- 16 inch stem length.
- Built-in vacuum breaker.
- Basic compression valve design.
- Easy wall mount installation.
- Low price point under $40.
While not as heavy-duty as brass models, this reliable plastic faucet gets the job done on a budget.
Jones Stephens J50-12 12″ Wall Faucet
Known for commercial-grade quality, this Jones Stephens faucet is perfect for high use installations. Features include:
- Solid brass construction.
- 12 inch stem length.
- 1/2″ NPT female inlet.
- Tamper-resistant set screw.
- 10 year limited warranty.
With rugged all-metal components and time-tested reliability, this faucet is built to last through years of regular use.
Arrowhead Brass FB-334 Hot/Cold No Freeze Faucet
Need both hot and cold water access? This Arrowhead Brass faucet fits the bill. Details include:
- Solid brass construction.
- 6-16 inch adjustable stem.
- Dual compression valve system.
- For 8″ to 24″ wall thickness.
- Easy installation.
- Hot and cold screw flanges included.
Get the convenience of hot water for washing up outdoors with this dual valve anti-freeze faucet.
How to Install a Frost Proof Faucet
Installing a new frost free outdoor faucet is a straightforward DIY project. Here are the key steps:
Step 1: Turn Off Water Supply
Locate the shut-off valve for your main outdoor water supply line. Turn the valve until it is completely perpendicular to the pipe to shut off water flow. Open the outdoor faucet to allow water to drain from the line.
Step 2: Remove Old Faucet
Take off the handle and unscrew any nuts or screws securing the old faucet. Pull the faucet straight out from the wall. Check for damage around the faucet hole that needs repair.
Step 3: Adjust Stem Length
Your new faucet will have an adjustable stem that can be cut to your desired length. Ensure it will extend adequately into the warm interior wall zone. Remove any foam insulation surrounding the old stem.
Step 4: Install New Faucet
Position the new faucet and insert the stem straight into the hole. From the interior side, slide on any trim plate and mounting hardware to secure it in place. Don’t kink or crimp any part of the stem.
Step 5: Connect Water Supply
Attach the inlet end of the new faucet to the water supply line using the correct fittings and pipe sealant. Ensure a tight seal.
Step 6: Insulate Stem
Seal any gaps around the faucet hole. Install provided foam insulation around the stem where it enters the house. This helps block out cold air.
Step 7: Turn Water Back On
Slowly turn the water at the shut-off valve back on. Check for leaks at fittings. Turn on the new faucet to test water flow and drainage.
Maintenance Tips for Frost Proof Faucets
Follow these maintenance practices to keep your outdoor frost proof faucet performing optimally for years on end:
- Inspect regularly for leaks, cracks, or damaged parts and repair as needed.
- Ensure screw connections are properly tightened.
- Cover faucet with insulating foam cover during winter.
- Drain water and shut off indoor supply valve before first freeze.
- Apply lubricating grease to compression valve threads annually.
- Clean screen washers and backflow preventer.
- Caulk around stem where it enters wall to prevent air gaps.
With proper maintenance to go along with its freeze-proof design, your outdoor faucet can provide many years of trouble-free water flow.
Conclusion
I hope this guide has helped demystify the frost proof faucet selection process and provided useful recommendations on quality models to consider. The best frost free outdoor faucet for your home depends on factors like your climate, installation location, usage needs, and budget. Models from reliable brands like Woodford, Prier, Jones Stephens, and Arrowhead Brass are great options that can protect against freeze damage for winter after winter. With proper installation and maintenance, a frost proof faucet will provide convenience, durability, and reliable performance season after season.