Hose Bib Replacement in Calgary

If you're an avid gardener, you probably use your spigot or hose bib quite a bit. However, as you're aware, it can break down from regular wear and tear, requiring a hose bib replacement. Calgary homeowners are not alone when seeking quality service. All you need is a reliable Calgary plumber to handle your spigot replacement in Calgary.

If anything, you are bound to use your hose bib more often than not as the weather warms up in Calgary. Also called a spigot, a hose bib is an outdoor faucet situated on your home's exterior. It's the outdoor water faucet where you can connect your hose. It's usually placed on the side of the house for easy access to water the garden, use the sprinkler, and clean the garage or patio. Your hose bib is extremely durable but doesn’t last forever. Over time, it will start to deteriorate due to being exposed to the outdoor elements, local weather, and changing seasons. That’s when you may need an expert to handle a hose bib replacement in Calgary.

Mr. Rooter Plumbing of Calgary is your local plumbing company that focuses on maintenance, repairs, and replacements. Knowing Calgary’s harsh winters, you must protect your plumbing system from freezing temperatures. However, hose bibs are often overlooked and taken for granted. When you hire your local Calgary plumber, they will complete the necessary inspections to determine your outdoor spigot’s health. So, when you need help from a plumbing expert, turn to Mr. Rooter Plumbing for a hose bib replacement. 

Has it been a while since you properly inspected your outdoor faucet? If so, you might need a service for hose bib replacement in Calgary. Get in touch with us today to learn more!

What is a Hose Bib & Why is it Essential?

An outdoor tap is a faucet installed on the outside of a house. It lets you bring water from inside your home to the outside. Overall, it controls water flow outside your home. You can use an outdoor water well to get fresh water for gardening, landscaping, or cleaning.

Most Calgary homes are equipped with one or spigots, which are 1/2 inch or 3/4 inch in diameter and aligned to the indoor water supply pipes. This allows for an optimal rate of water flow. Normally, a hose bib is placed in a specific location to provide water access and prevent water from dripping.

Our Process for Hose Bib Replacement in Calgary

If you need a hose bib replacement in Calgary, our professional plumber understands how your home's pipes work and can help. They can inspect and diagnose plumbing issues and will then recommend the best solution for your spigot replacement in Calgary. It's a better investment to fix the problem now rather than dealing with ongoing repairs, especially if it's no longer preventing leaks.

Our hose bib replacement in Calgary includes the removal of the old unit. During this process, we’ll clean off the area of any accumulated debris and also check the connecting water line. After your service appointment, we'll test your new outdoor faucet to make sure it's working correctly.

Hose Bibs Types We Replace During a Hose Bib Replacement in Calgary

Kink-Free: A no-kink hose bib has a spout at 60°, which provides more leeway from any attached garden hose from being wound up too tight and pinches as the hose maneuvers to multiple locations.

Ball Valve: A generic ball valve helps to streamline the flow of water and also allows for a watertight seal whenever the outdoor faucet is not in use. Just please keep in mind the ball valve is only responsible for controlling the flow rate of water and not the pressure level.

Gate Valve: This is an older model of the ball valve and is found in older Calgary properties. All the same, a gate valve allows you to control the rate of water flow from a subtle trickle to a full flush of water.

Loose Key: This is a removable square key that allows you to control access to the water supply itself. If you're concerned about theft of your freshwater supply from random intruders, this is a safety mechanism. The key can be removed, so be sure to stash it away in a safe and secure hiding place.

Frost Free: This can be opened and closed to prevent fluid from pooling within your pipes whenever the outdoor faucet is not being used. The major differences between a generic hose bib and a frost-free one are that the pipe for a frost-free hose bib is slightly longer, and the main shut-off valve is further indoors of the house where the room temperature is warmer. Although please note these types of hose bibs are touted as frost-free, they still need proper upkeep, including detaching the hose before winter.

Hose Bib Components That We Fix During a Hose Bib Replacement in Calgary

Loose Packing Nut: One of the most common problems with a hose bib is a loose packing nut. In this case, you'll notice that water is spurting out from underneath the faucet handle each time the hose bib is turned on. Normally this is a quick fix solution as by using a pair of pliers, you can retighten the packing nut by turning it counterclockwise. As the seal is securely fastened, the spigot will stop leaking.

Worn-Out Gasket: Most outdoor faucets need a gasket of some sort to create an airtight seal so the spigot doesn't leak haphazardly when it's not in use. If it's become worn down, it may need to be refastened using silicone caulk to forge a stronger seal.

Corroded Or Stripped Adapter: The adapter is affixed to the end of a hose bib to allow it to connect to appliances such as a hose or irrigation sprinkler. After being exposed to weather elements and scathing precipitation, including heavy rainfalls, blistering blizzards, and icy hailstorms, your hose bib's adapter is susceptible to rust damage due to elevated moisture and humidity levels. If you are keen on maintenance, you can cleanse off the outdoor spigot with undiluted white vinegar to prevent corrosion. But if it's already fallen into disrepair, you should consider a hose bib replacement. Our Calgary plumbers have you covered.

Leaking Connector: The connector is about 3/4 inches in size and comes with a threaded end which allows you to attach it to external appliances such as the hose or sprinkler. Normally a leak in the connector is due to a faulty and deteriorated washer that needs to be replaced. It's good to ensure the washer is properly inserted inside the coupling.

Service for Hose Bib Installation: Calgary

If you need an outdoor tap installation service, you can rely on Mr. Rooter Plumbing of Calgary to get the job done. We’ll inspect your property and help you determine the best area to drill the hole. During a service for hose bib installation, our Calgary plumbers will also inspect your plumbing, locate your water source and help you choose the type of spigot most suited to your needs.

Why Hire Mr. Rooter Plumbing for Hose Bib Replacement in Calgary

It's best to prepare for the next scorching Calgary heat wave by asking for a hose bib replacement. By relying on a tactical plumber from Mr. Rooter Plumbing of Calgary to replace outdoor spigots, you can rest easy knowing your outdoor freshwater supply is fully accessible at a moment's notice.

Our Calgary plumber will show up uniformed and prompt to replace outdoor spigots and can even accommodate last-minute emergencies. Whether you’re in downtown Calgary or the south, like Haysboro or Glamorgan, don't hesitate and reach out today!

Frequently Asked Questions About Hose Bib Replacement in Calgary

What Are the Telltale Signs I Need to Replace My Outdoor Spigot?

If you’ve noticed any of these signs below, you may have to sign up for an expert Calgary hose bib replacement service soon:

• Hairline cracks or fractures in the area around the external faucet
• Broken handle
• Difficulty attaching a hose to the external faucet
• Leaky faucet
• Random puddles around the hose bib
• Damage to the house foundation is evident by cracks snaking across the ceiling or drywall
• Lower water pressure from faucet due to clog
• Little to no water flow

Some of these issues could be related to the connecting water line and should be inspected immediately in case of a water line leak.

How Long Will My Spigot Last Until I Need a Hose Bib Replacement in Calgary?

The lifespan of your hose bib depends on the quality of the material, the installation, and environmental conditions—including weather. If your hose bib was properly installed and made from good quality materials, then it can last anywhere between 15 and 20 years before you'll need a hose bib replacement in Calgary.

Do You Have To Shut Off The Water To Change A Hose Bib?

Yes–the first thing you must do when disconnecting the pipe on an outdoor faucet is to shut off the water to the house. Since water is continuously running from the municipal water supply pipe directly into the house, you need to stop it, so you can keep the area dry as we carry out a professional hose bib replacement in Calgary.

What are the Differences Between a Hose Bib and a Spigot?

Hose bibs have numerous acronyms, including spigot, outdoor water faucet, sill cock, etc., which all but refer to the very same water mechanism attached and affixed to the side of the hose. The hose bib is directly connected to the plumbing system in your home. There are key differences, though, between a hose bib and a spigot. And it's crucial to understand these when it comes to a hose bib replacement or a spigot replacement in Calgary.

Here is a detailed list of the key differences between hose bibs and spigots:

Purpose and Use

Hose bibs are primarily designed to attach to a garden hose. It's the go-to choice when it comes to anything that requires a controlled flow of water, like watering your garden, washing your car, or cleaning off your outdoor living areas.

Spigots, however, are more diverse when it comes to their purpose. They're pretty versatile, being a part of the general water supply. They're not designed exclusively for connecting to hoses, possibly serving more than one purpose when it comes to your access to water outside your home.

Structure and Design

The biggest difference between a hose bib and a water spigot is that a hose bib features a threaded spout, allowing for a secure connection to a hose. It's a feature that helps minimize the chance of leaks and enables a stable flow of water.

Spigots come in a range of different designs and aren't always threaded for connecting to a hose. They usually feature a straightforward design, the primary focus being to provide access to water rather than allowing for the facilitation of specific tasks.

Water Flow

Designed to offer consistent and controlled water flow, hose bibs are ideal for any task that requires precision in water delivery. The flow rate is usually adjustable on the handle, allowing you to fine-tune the water flow depending on the task.

Spigots, conversely, often provide a variable flow rate but are capable of delivering a high volume of water quickly. That makes it ideal if you need to fill a container for an activity or need access to a large volume of water at once.

Material and Durability

Common materials for hose bibs include brass or stainless steel. That's because these materials are durable, and capable of withstanding the rigors that come from frequent use and exposure to the elements. Their durability is further enhanced by other design elements, including frost protection and mechanisms that prevent damage caused by attaching and detaching a hose.

Although they're also constructed from durable materials, spigots typically feature a simpler design. They're also not usually subject to repeated mechanical stress compared to hose bibs. Still, they need to be durable enough to handle exposure to the elements.

Installation and Maintenance

When it comes to a hose bib installation in Calgary, several factors need to be taken into consideration. These include the proximity to the supply line, frost protection needs, and the ease of access to allow for a hose connection. When it comes to maintenance requirements, you need to regularly check a hose bib for leaks, preparing it for freezing temperatures, and the occasional hose bib replacement, like replacing parts like washers or gaskets.

Now, spigots are typically much easier to install. They can also be placed in a more diverse range of locations. The maintenance requirements are also quite simple, including regularly inspecting them for leaks, proper winterization, and occasional cleanups. 

Is It Safe To Drink Water From The Hose Bib?

Although the freshwater supply is all the same whether it's coming from your indoor kitchen faucet, shower head, and more—drinking water from a hose bib is not recommended as the drain opening of the spigot is susceptible to bacterial growth and insects, which can contaminate your water supply.

How Do I Protect My Outdoor Spigot In The Winter?

To protect your hose bib from the aftermath of damage in the thick of winter, you are best advised to use an insulated faucet cover. This is alongside installing insulated tubing for the water supply pipe to offer the best level of protection to shield an outside faucet from freezing over.

What are Some Maintenance Tips to Avoid a Hose Bib Replacement in Calgary?

Proper and regular maintenance is key to keeping your spigots and outdoor hose bib functional. Here are a couple of tips that can help improve their lifespan:

• Regularly inspect your outdoor faucets for leaks or damage, repairing any damage promptly to prevent wasting water and inflated water bills.
• Before winter sets in, drain and shut off all hose bibs and spigots to prevent them from freezing and causing a pipe to burst.
• Make certain that you clean your faucets regularly, ensuring that you continue to enjoy a smooth flow of water.
• Utilize water safety, conservation, and any maintenance equipment, like a vacuum breaker or an anti-siphon valve. You can also take advantage of various devices like hose bib locks, shut-off valves, and outdoor faucet covers to enhance your home's water security.
• Take the time to lubricate any moving parts on an annual basis, keeping them operating smoothly and extending their lifespan.

Mr. Rooter Plumbing Will Complete Your Outdoor Spigot Replacement in Calgary With Ease–Book Today

Don't wait until the last minute to be surprised that you are all tapped out for watering your freshly mowed lawn and hedges. At Mr. Rooter Plumbing of Calgary, we offer transparent, upfront, and flat rate pricing alongside a one-year part and labor guarantee to replace outdoor spigots, so if something falters for your hose bib, we will return and make the proper adjustments.

Reach out to one of our friendly customer service representatives, who will gladly schedule your service appointment. Curious about other residential and commercial plumbing services? Whether you need clogged drain repair, frozen pipe repair, or a water heater repair service, feel free to ask our licensed plumbers.

If you're experiencing plumbing issues and require an outdoor hose bib replacement in Calgary, call Mr. Rooter Plumbing today. Book your appointment by phone or contact us online for plumbing repairs, including faucet repairs! You can rest assured that customer satisfaction guaranteed!