Ever wished you had hot water available outdoors? Whether it’s washing your car in winter, bathing pets, or rinsing tools, a hot and cold outdoor faucet makes life easier. Instead of relying on cold water alone, you can enjoy year-round comfort with both hot and cold supply lines connected to your exterior spigot. You May Also Like: Can You Move a Toilet in a Bathroom.
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Why Install a Hot and Cold Outdoor Faucet?
Adding an outdoor hot water spigot is more than just a luxury. It provides:
- Convenience: No more carrying buckets of warm water outside.
- Comfort: Great for rinsing pets, kids’ toys, or even your muddy boots.
- Versatility: Perfect for gardening, washing cars, or filling pools with preheated water.
- Value: An upgraded plumbing feature can add appeal to your home.
Tools and Materials You’ll Need
Before you start, gather these tools and supplies:
- Pipe cutter
- Drill with hole saw attachment
- Copper or PEX pipes and fittings
- Shut-off ball valves
- Thread seal tape
- Adjustable wrench
- Silicone caulk
- Safety gear (gloves, goggles)
Step-by-Step Installation Guide
1: Plan Your Faucet Location
Choose a wall that has easy access to both hot and cold water lines inside your home. Utility rooms, laundry areas, or basements are common choices.
2: Shut Off the Water Supply
Turn off the main water valve. Open a faucet inside the house to relieve any pressure in the lines.
3: Drill the Access Holes
Using a hole saw, carefully drill through the exterior wall at the planned location. Be sure the hole slopes slightly downward toward the outside—this helps prevent water from freezing in the line.
4: Run Hot and Cold Supply Lines
- Cut into your indoor hot and cold water lines.
- Install a T-fitting on each line and run new pipes to the wall opening.
- Attach shut-off ball valves so you can control the outdoor faucet independently.
5: Install the Faucet Assembly
- Place the outdoor hot and cold faucet unit into the wall opening.
- Seal around it with silicone caulk to keep moisture out.
- Secure the faucet with exterior-grade screws.
6: Connect and Test
- Connect the hot and cold pipes to the back of the faucet.
- Turn on the main water supply.
- Test both hot and cold handles to confirm proper flow.
- Check all connections for leaks.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
- Low Water Pressure: Make sure the supply lines are not kinked or undersized.
- Leaking Faucet: Check the washers and tighten connections.
- Frozen Spigot: If your area experiences freezing temperatures, consider a frost-proof faucet model.
Maintenance Tips for Longevity
- Remove hoses in winter to prevent freeze damage.
- Inspect connections annually for leaks.
- Clean aerators regularly to avoid mineral buildup.
- Exercise the shut-off valves a couple of times each year to keep them from sticking.
Costs of Installing an Outdoor Hot and Cold Faucet
- DIY materials: $200–$400 depending on pipe type and faucet model.
- Professional installation: $500–$1,000+ depending on wall access and plumbing complexity.
While DIY is possible, hiring a licensed plumber ensures code compliance and prevents costly mistakes.
FAQs
Can I add a hot water spigot outside without redoing my plumbing?
Yes, if your hot water line is accessible near an exterior wall, you can branch off and connect it to a dual hot/cold faucet.
Do outdoor hot and cold faucets work in winter?
If you install a frost-proof model and slope the pipe correctly, they can be used year-round in cold climates.
How much does a plumber charge for installing an outdoor faucet?
On average, $500–$1,000, depending on the complexity of running hot and cold water lines.
Is it safe to use outdoor hot water for drinking or cooking?
It’s not recommended. Outdoor faucets are best for cleaning, washing, and utility purposes.
Can I use PEX instead of copper for installation?
Yes, PEX is a flexible, durable, and cost-effective alternative to copper and is commonly used in modern plumbing installations.
Conclusion
Installing a hot and cold outdoor faucet is one of the most practical plumbing upgrades you can make. It provides warm water outside for cleaning, gardening, and pet care while adding convenience to your home. With proper installation and care, your outdoor hot water spigot will serve you for years to come.
👉 Need reliable installation help? Visit Plumber Near Me today and get expert service for your hot water spigot outside project.
