How to Install a Plastic Faucet Outside

A plastic faucet is only used in outdoor locations where the climate is not prone to frost. In colder areas, the plastic will become too brittle in the winter and be prone to cracking or shattering. Installing the plastic faucet is a moderately challenging project as you need to have some plumbing skills. 

Step 1: Determine Location of Plastic Faucet

Installing a faucet on the outside of your home requires that you spend some time looking over suitable placement areas. You must locate some of the existing water supply pipes so you can connect to them. Water pipes that are close by will make the installation much easier. 

Step 2: Turn Water Off

Since you will be cutting into the water pipes you will need to shut the main water off. Once the water has been turned off then turn on the faucets in the house. This will drain any water away from where you will be working.

Step 3: Cut Hole in Wall

Place a mark on the location of where the faucet is going to go. This should be close to any existing water pipes. Use a 1 inch spade bit and drill into the side of the house. Make sure that there are no wires or other pipes in the location before you start to drill.

Step 4: Install Plastic Faucet

With the hole in the side of your home, place a layer of silicone caulking around the diameter of the hole. Press the plastic faucet into the hole and make sure it makes firm contact. Screw the housing into the siding. Turn the handle of the faucet until it is all the way on. 

Step 5: Install T Fitting

Go to the water pipes that are close to the faucet. Mark a section in the cold water supply line and make a cut with a pipe cutter. Install a 'T' fitting by cleaning off each side with some flux and soldering the piece in place with the torch. 

Step 6: Install Shut off Valve

Once the 'T' fitting has been installed, then you will need to place a shut off valve between there and the faucet. Make sure that a small piece of copper pipe comes out of the fitting so you have a place to install the valve. Using the same procedure of soldering, secure the shut off valve.

Step 7: Run Pipe to Faucet

With the shut off valve in place, you can then run pipes to the section where the faucet comes into the house. Measure and cut each pipe to fit, using any elbows, or pipe hangers, that you may need. Again, use soldering techniques to secure the pipe together. Make sure that a threaded piece is at the end of the pipe section.

Step 8: Attach to Faucet

Wrap some plumber's tape around the threads on the faucet. Connect the copper pipe to the faucet and tighten the compression nut. 

Step 9: Turn Water On and Test

Turn on the main water supply and check for any signs of leaks in the copper piping. Turn off the plastic faucet and connect a hose for use.