9 Parts of an Outdoor Faucet ( With Pictures )

Parts of an outdoor Faucet – When we build a house, it is important to remember the outside too. One of the most important things to think of for the outside is the faucet. This is called spigot and hose-bib too.

This is because it is fixed exactly where we normally attach an outdoor hose. Most of us think that the faucet is simple and uncomplicated, right? The real surprise is when it malfunctions. Only then, we really start thinking about the inside of the faucet so that we can set it right. If you are not too familiar with the different parts of the faucet, worry not. This article will list out all the parts and explain their working too.

It is really difficult to comprehend the different parts of this faucet until we comprehend the way it functions. It works just like the faucets we have in our kitchens and regulates water flow. This is achieved with different valves like the gate valve, ball valve, or globe valve.

When we change the position of the handle on the faucet, the position of the valve also changes. When the valve is open, water will flow freely. When it is closed, water will stop flowing. When the valve starts malfunctioning in faucets that have been used for years, the faucet drips or leaks.

This is often seen in properties that are not new. If the dripping is from the spigot, it means that the valve is malfunctioning and needs to be changed. However, it is easier to change the faucet itself as this process is easier and is only as costly as replacing the valve.

Let’s find out what are the parts of the shower.

1. The Handle

The handle, which is right on top of the faucet is usually made of metal. However, occasionally,  it has a covering made of plastic or silicone. This is so that it is not difficult to grasp the handle. Very often, the handle is structured like a wagon wheel as it is worked by turning it.

Another arrangement could be having two wings that come out on both sides from the centre of the handle. If the handle is shifted to the left, the valve is opened and water runs freely. Shifting the handle to the right will close the valve and the water stops flowing.

2. The Packing Nut

The packing nut is also known as the bonnet nut. This nut, made of metal, is fixed to the stem of the faucet. It is the spot at which the handle is fixed.

3. The Packing Water

This is fixed below the packing nut. Due to its tiny size, we do not attach much importance to this part, but it really has a significant role to play. This is the part that stops water from sprouting out from the uppermost part of the faucet when it is on.

These washers may weaken as time goes by. The tell-tale signs are water sprouting from the uppermost part of the faucet. If this happens, then it is time for you to change the packing washer.

4. The Spindle

Another name for the spindle is the stem. It is lengthy and not very thick. It connects the handle and the valves which regulate the flow of water. This is, again, a very important part and ensures that the faucet works properly as this aids in regulating water output. When we move the handle of the faucet, the spindle also moves up or down. This will result in an opening or closing the valve, thus allowing water to come out of the spigot or stopping the flow.

5. The Supply Pipe

Though this is not one of the components of the faucet itself, it is an integral part that is connected to the faucet. When we fix the faucet outside on the wall, it is connected to the supply pipe. The supply pipe delivers water to the back of the faucet and this water runs through the faucet.

6. The Stem Washer

This washer is fixed to the lowermost part of the spindle or stem. When we move the handle to the right side, this stem moves the entire distance down and applies pressure on the valve seat. This action stops water from coming out of the faucet.

Since it stops water flow, it is indeed, a very integral part of the faucet. The stem washer can stop working properly after some time. The indication is water trickling out from the spigot even when it is not turned on. If this happens, it is time for you to replace your stem washer.

7. The Valve Seat

This is fixed inside the faucet. It is situated at the base of the faucet and it regulates the water flow. The stem washer exerts pressure on this valve to cut off the water supply. When the stem washer is further above and no pressure is exerted on the valve, the valve allows the water to flow out effortlessly through the spigot. 

If there is water dripping from the spigot, you should look at changing the stem washer first. If this is of no use, the next option is to see if the valve seat is malfunctioning as the valve could also cause this problem if it is not working properly.

8. The Spigot

It is not uncommon to use the word spigot to talk about the whole faucet. However, the end of the faucet which allows water to come out of the faucet is actually called the spigot. The spigot facilitates linking a hose pipe or a sprinkler system to it so that it is easier to water gardens and lawns.

9. The Wall Mount

This portion of the faucet fastens the faucet to the wall. The pre-molded holes provided in this portion ensure that they can be fastened to the wall. Also, you can check out Parts of shower with names.