When and Why to Replace Your Outdoor Hose Bib

Outdoor hose bibs take a lot of wear and tear and exposure to weather here in Northbrook, IL. Knowing when to get a new hose bib installation done will save you a lot of headaches and money down the line.

When and Why Hose Bib Installation in Northbrook, IL Is Important

Your outdoor hose bib, also called a spigot or sillcock, has to deal with constant use, weather exposure, and regular pressure changes. When you don’t get it replaced in a timely fashion, you’ll end up with wasted water and possibly even pipe damage.

Signs There’s a Problem

A constant drip after you turn off the handle is going to waste hundreds of gallons a year and raises your water bill, so this is a problem that should be addressed. Water pooling around the base of the spigot or seeping from the connection to the house is your clue that the seals or washers inside have failed and need to be replaced

If the handle feels stiff or it just won’t turn smoothly, then it’s likely some of the internal parts have worn out or corroded. Rust or green buildup on the body of the bib tells you the metal is breaking down, and our wet climate tends to exacerbate this issue. If you see cracks or visible damage, then be aware that the unit might not be able to hold pressure safely anymore. Finally, just think about the age of your hose bib. They’re made to last at most 15 years, so if you’re approaching that time, and especially if you’re seeing other issues, it’s time to get it replaced.

Why Replacement Makes Sense

If you’ve got a failing hose bib and haven’t addressed it, you’re going to experience ongoing frustration and costs. Leaks add up quickly on your monthly water bill, and the presence of constant moisture around the bib can rot wood siding, damage your foundation, or encourage mold growth near the house. In freezing conditions, a burst bib could leave you with indoor pipe damage, where the water then escapes into the walls or a crawl space. Repairing that is far more expensive than swapping out the outdoor unit.

But beyond the dangers of using an old unit, there are also the benefits of having a new one. Modern bibs perform better than ever, and many now come in frost-free designs that extend the valve stem inside the house, where it stays warmer, to reduce the freeze risk. There are now anti-siphon features that can prevent backflow to keep your drinking water safe from garden chemicals or debris, and modern bibs simply turn more easily, give you better flow, and are up to code.

Contact Us for Hose Bib Replacement

Replacing your outdoor hose bib at the right time keeps your plumbing reliable and saves you money. Contact Bill’s Plumbing and Sewer in Northbrook, IL, Glenview, Deerfield, Northfield and all surrounding areas in Cook County. We’re a family-run business that’s proud to provide reliable plumbing services for our community.

Tags: hose bib replacement, leaking hose bib, outdoor hose bib
Posted in Bill's Plumbing and Sewer Service, Hose Bib, Water Systems | No Comments »