Having a frosty outdoor faucet could be anybody’s worst nightmare. After all, frozen water pipes act like blood clots, very dangerous, and when it goes wrong, it may rupture your home and probably drain your wallet.
Getting a really good frost-free sillcock is one of the best possible options you need to take to ensure nothing goes wrong even in winter.
Also known as an outdoor hose bib, this equipment minimizes the chances of water freezing in the pipes. Below, we are going to review the best five frost-free sillcocks available in the market.
SharkBite 24628LFA Frost Free SillcockBest Frost Free Sillcock
SharkBite 24628LFA Frost Free Sillcock
Being a world-class technology company in plumbing, SharkBite produces one of the best frost-free sillcocks for domestic, commercial, and industrial uses.
The company’s performance and quality are field-proven with its participation in the entire manufacturing process from raw brass to the SharkBite 2462LFA frost-free sillcock.
Description and Design
This unique 8 inches frost free sillcock valve makes any outdoor plumbing project easy and unique with its easy push-to-connect mechanism. In addition, it has a ½ inch push-fit inlet that can fit PEX, CPVC, PE-RT, and copper pipes as well as a ¾ inch MHT outlet.
The valve, on the other hand, has a coordinated mounting flange that secures it to the mounting surface. The SharkBite 24628LFA frost free sillcock also has an integrated air gap backflow prevention system which acts as a hindrance to any potential back-siphonage.
When you insert a pipe into this frost-free sillcock, the stainless steel ends up gripping the pipe. During this process, specially formulated O-ring compresses, thus creating a perfect watertight seal.
The SharkBite 24628LFA Frost Free sillcock includes a built-in hose bib to strengthen the product and a multi shutoff valve to protect it against harsh weather conditions and cold water draining.
Features
When it comes to performance, the SharkBite frost-free sillcock is rated 200 PSI and 180 degrees Fahrenheit. It is used for only hydronic heating applications and conveying of potable water.
SharkBite also made the connector inlet to fit various types of pipes such as PEX, CPVC, PE-RT, and copper pipes. They can also be connected in any combination.
All fittings featured on the front free sillcock are built to meet standards for residential and commercial plumbing applications.
Another great feature about the SharkBite 24628LFA Frost Free sillcock is that it can be installed just in seconds. The ¾ inch MHT outlet and the ½ inch push-fit inlet require no soldering, glue, or special tools to fix. It is done by simply pushing to create a watertight seal.
- Can be used with a pressure of up to 200 PSI
- Easy to install
- Can connect to an already existing female end
- Made up of high-quality material compared to other frost-free sillcocks
- Can be used on a variety of pipes
- Comes with an integrated air gap backflow prevention mechanism
- The blue paint on the valve chips off easily
Final Verdict
I highly recommend this product because it has an anti-siphon mechanism, sleek design, and function, it can withstand high pressure and temperatures, it is made with quality materials, and it comes at a reasonable price.
Everflow 6212P-NL SillcockBest Sillcock For PEX Connection
Everflow 6212P-NL Sillcock
Made by Everflow, the Everflow 6212P-NL Sillcock is the second on the list, and it is part of the most recommended frost-free sillcock which you can get on the market.
This Everflow silk cock can practically stand tough situations it was actually made for. Beneath each Everflow label, lies a quality, commitment, and innovation.
Description and Design
The Everflow 6212P-NL Sillcock pipe is 12 inches in size with a chrome-plated brass body structure which is extensively made to act as freeze-proof.
This sillcock prevents water in the outdoor pipe from the faucet to become frozen. The Everflow 6212P-NL Sillcock is a spigot that is placed at the outer part of the building which can be connected to hoses.
The valve of the Everflow sillcock is made of plastic, and it turns in either direction to switch on and off as well as control the flow of the water. The frost-free sillcock pipe is measured almost 10 inches in length with 1/2 inch PEX connections available for water supply.
The hose bib, on the other hand, is placed under the plastic valve has a 3/4 inch male hose thread which can be connected to a pipe or a hose to convey water.
Features
Everflow 6212P-NL Sillcock boasts of a body that has a brass body and a chrome-plated finish. It also has a freeze-proof sillcock pipe that is frost-free and can function in most cold conditions.
It features a large plastic valve which makes operation very easy.
This frost-free sillcock connects ½ inch PEX for water supply as well as a ¾ inch male hose thread for hose bib connection.
The pipe of the sillcock can withstand a pressure of up to 150 PSI of water, gas, and also oil. It is also approved by the Universal Product Code (UPC) and the National Science Foundation (NSF).
- Easy to set up
- Comes with a valve that makes turning easy as possible
- This sillcock is made up of a brass body with chrome-plated finish
- Can withstand very high pressure (150 PSI)
- Can be used for water and a variety of substances such as oil and gas
- It doesn’t have an anti-siphon spigot
Final Verdict
Although this sillcock does not have the anti-siphon function, it still carries out its function as a frost-free sillcock, and it can withstand pressures of up to 150 PSI.
It also comes at a reasonable price. I do recommend this product, but one has to be careful to avoid backflow when using this product.
Prier P-164D12 Quarter-Turn Frost Free Anti-Siphon SillcockBest Made in USA
Prier P-164D12 Frost Free Sillcock
Prier water hydrants are known to be one of the finest quality available. Made from aluminum accessories, copper tubing as well as stainless steel, and heavy cast brass, these hydrants are designed and tested to bring out the best in your plumbing system.
The Prier P-164D12 on its own is responsible for a year-round supply of water to the outdoor and exterior parts of the house which is exposed and liable to freeze.
Description and Design
Manufactured in the United States, the Prier P-164D12 is a 12-inch heavy-duty anti-siphon hydrant that comes with a soft-grip handle and also a quarter-turn operation.
The operation handle was designed to be used during cold weather, and wet conditions, and the traditional rising stem design was also made for longevity and simple maintenance.
In addition to this, this frost-free sillcock also boasts of an anti-siphon vacuum breaker as well as a back check valve.
The Prier Frost free sillcock has a built-in drainage pitch, about 5 full hose threads made solely for connecting a garden hose, and a solid brass body with seat and stem ends to boost its life.
The repairable compression seat stem is made up of size” 00” seat washers instead of the standard fragile ceramic disks.
The hollow tube/stem is aligned to fit the projection for easier installation. This frost-free sillcock is built at an angle, precisely 4 degrees to achieve a perfect drainage pitch. There is also a ½ inch inlet port as well as a ½ inch IPS port at the exterior.
Features
The Prier P-164D12 features a Durable ACME thread that is used to secure the stem at the seat end. It features a quarter-turn soft-grip coated cast aluminum and a lockshield cap suitable for stronger valve design and easy operation.
This Prier sillcock also features an anti-siphon vacuum breaker and also a backflow check valve to prevent water freezing in the faucet and contamination.
This frost-free sillcock connects ½ inch IPS port for water supply as well as a ½ inch male hose thread for hose bib connection.
The Prier P-164D12 comes with a standard” 00” size seat washer. It is Made up of a solid brass body with nickel-plated coating, seat, stem ends, and a valve stem cap.
It is approved and recommended by the American Society of Sanitary Engineering (ASSE 1019), and it is certified by the Uniform Plumbing Code (C-UPC).
- Very easy operational quarter-turn handle
- Made of a brass body with a nickel-plated coating for beautification
- Fully frost-free operational sillcock that can withstand cold environments
- Anti-siphon spigot
- Comes with an integrated air gap backflow prevention mechanism
- Can be installed without soldering
- Has a maximum working pressure of just 125 PSI
- Is it a bit costly compared to the other frost-free sillcocks?
Final Verdict
Although it can’t handle extreme pressure, it comes with an anti-siphon mechanism which is a good part of outdoor frost-free faucets.
It also has a sleek design and a valve that is easy to handle. I recommend this product.
Everflow Supplies 6212-NL Frost Free SillcockBest Long Sillcock
Everflow Supplies 6212-NL Frost Free Sillcock
Made by Everflow, this company offers a complete setup of premium brass end products for both residential and commercial uses and installations.
The Everflow 6214P-NL Sillcock, just like any frost-free sillcock, has the primary task of preventing water from freezing in your pipe.
Description and Design
This frost-free sillcock just like its above Everflow counterpart is made of a brass body and then applied a chrome-plated finish, but unlike the former, it is 2 inches longer resulting in it being 14 inches in length. The sillcock is designed to get rid of water from the pipes exposed to the outside temperature.
The valve of the Everflow sillcock is made of plastic, and it turns in either direction to switch on and off as well as control the flow of the water.
The frost-free sillcock pipe is measured almost 14 inches in length with 1/2 inch MIP connections available for water supply. The hose bib is placed under the plastic valve has a 3/4 inch male hose thread which can be connected to a pipe or a hose for water supply.
Features
The Everflow 6214P-NL frost free sillcock features a huge plastic valve which makes switching off and on the very continent and easy.
This frost-free sillcock is also built from raw brass, and it is plated with chrome to give it a beautiful finish. This improves the function of its frost-proof feature.
Everflow 6214P-NL Sillcock connects to ½ MIP or ½ solder cup for water supply. It also has a ¾ inch hose thread to connect your exterior hose to the sillcock.
- Easy operational handle
- Made with brass and chrome plated
- Withstand high pressure compared to most sillcocks
- From a trusted company
- Negatively affected by soldering
- Comes with no anti-siphon spigot
Final Verdict
Just like the other Everflow model, this product does not have an anti-siphon system but still carries out the basic functionality of a frost-free sillcock.
It can withstand pressures of up to 150 PSI, unlike the Prier Product. I recommend this product if only you do not care about the anti-siphon mechanism.
Homewerks VFF-ASP-C19PA Anti-Siphon Frost Free SillcockLow Price Sillcock
Homewerks VFF-ASP-C19PA Frost Free Sillcock
With the mission to bring efficiency, innovation, and quality to every home through advanced home improvement products, Homework sillcocks is not an exception to this list.
The Homewerk VFF-ASP-C19PA is a Frost Free sillcock, which is tasked with the function of protecting your exterior plumbing to avoid the unnecessary damage during harsh frosty conditions.
Description and Design
Designed in the United States, the Homewerk VFF-ASP-C19PA is a 12-inch frost-free anti-siphon faucet that comes with a quarter-turn valve as well as a continent handle which makes it easy to operate.
This frost-free sillcock has an anti-siphon feature that prevents water from flowing back, thus preventing the water supply to be contaminated.
The Homewerk VFF-ASP-C19PA is made of a brass body with seat and stem ends to carry out its primary function. There is a ½ inch inlet port which can be a male thread or soldered according to specification (thread preferred) and a ¾ inch hose thread outlet.
Features
The Homewerk VFF-ASP-C19PA Features a body made from raw brass to improve its functionality and lifespan.
When it comes to the operational handle, the Homewerk VFF-ASP-C19PA is built with a quarter-turn handle which is continent for switching on and off. This frost-free sillcock connects ½ inch inlet port for water supply as well as a ¾ inch male hose thread for hose bib connection.
It is approved and recommended by the American Society of Sanitary Engineering (ASSE 1019), and it is certified by the Uniform Plumbing Code (C-UPC).
- Very sleek brass body
- Setting up is easy
- Quarter turn handle for fast and efficient operation
- Anti-siphon features to prevent backflow
- Can be installed with or without soldering
- Lowest price
- Doesn’t work at 23F and lower temperature
- Could become stiffed
Final Verdict
I added this sillcock to my Best Frost Free Sillcock review because it is very popular. The reason for its popularity is the price.
But you have to mention, that the overall quality of this sillcock is not good. If you have a very limited budget, you are not going to use it often and low temperatures are not common at your place, you can use it. Other times I will not recommend it.
Best Frost Free Sillcock – Buyer’s Guide
Learning more about frost-free sillcock generally along with the detailed reviews given above should assist you greatly when it comes to deciding which frost-free sillcock is the best for you.
Contents:
What is a frost-free sillcock?
Present in almost every house, most people tend to know it in different names such as outdoor faucet, hydrant, hose bib, spigot, etc.
Most of these plumbing tools fail from improper use or wrongful installation. Frost-free sillcocks are mostly required by your local plumbing code, and when the wrong sillcock is installed in an extremely harsh climate, they are more likely to freeze.
This means that if there is a sudden change in temperature which results in a sudden freeze, and you forgot to turn off and drain the water spigot for the winter, the frost-free sillcock can help by dramatically reducing the chances of you having a burst pipe.
An anti-siphon, on the other hand, also known as the vacuum breaker in a water spigot is now required by all plumbing organizations and building codes. This feature is built into the new types of frost-free sillcock, and it can also be added to existing ones.
This feature prevents unsanitary water to be pulled back through an outdoor hose at the same time, preventing your water system from being contaminated.
Can Frost Free Faucets Freeze?
Frost-free faucets are designed and built to prevent water from freezing in the pipes and probably bursting the pipes.
If appropriately installed (at a downward pitch) and there is no restriction on the hose nozzle to prevent the remaining water inside from draining, the product cannot freeze because there is no water left in the faucet.
But if a hose or a restriction is available, the water cannot drain properly. As the climate becomes more harsh and intolerable, the water in the faucet begins to freeze.
The temperature is passed from the outside faucet back into the interior part of the house. Once the water has been frozen into the faucet, and it has been shut off, pressure builds up and ends up bursting the pipe.
How do I know if my Faucet is Frost Free?
One of the best ways to know if a faucet is frost-free is that the faucet has a knob that is perpendicular to the house. The knob controls a long stem that closes a valve located at the interior part of the house where the temperature is warm.
How do Frost Proof Spigots Work?
The frost-proof spigot works most like other sillcocks, but with one significant difference, the length of the spigot is much longer than a regular spigot to protect the valve from low temperature.
As the handle is switched on, the stem turns inside the body of the spigot and at the same time closes the valve seat at the other end of the sillcock which is in the interior part of the house.
Once this is done, the water stops flowing, the rest of the water in the stem is drained out.
Can you Use Outdoor Faucets in Winter?
To answer this question simply, Yes, you can. You can use standard outdoor faucets in winter by winterizing them. This can be done by turning off the source from inside the house and draining it out to prevent freezing.
Outdoor faucets always have a shutoff valve located inside the house, in most older homes, these cables can be found in the ceiling very close to the Exterior Faucets. In new buildings, the valve is located right next to the main water valve, and they are always illustrated.
Once the water is shut off, the outside faucet needs to be turned on. After that, the bleeder cap located in the interior part of the building needs to loosen.
This will allow the excess water in the pipes to be drained out. After this, you can tighten the bleeder cap back and turn off the exterior faucet.
What is the Difference between a Sillcock and a Hose Bib?
Knowing the difference between a hose bib and a sillcock is very important, especially when you are making plans to buy either of them.
Although both may look alike, you will notice that a sillcock features an extended pipe that penetrates deep into the interior parts of the house. Most sillcocks come from 6 inches to 12 inches in length and when you want to buy one, always get the longest reasonable size.
The reason that sillcocks are longer is that, unlike its counterpart where the valve that controls the water is exposed to the outside, the sillcock positions the valve at the end of its long pipe.
Best Frost Free Sillcock – Conclusion
If you are new to plumbing or being a DIY enthusiast, you will there is so much to learn about these little but life-saving products. My recommendation for a frost-free sillcock that offers one of the best functionalities at a reasonable price even in the coldest weather is the SharkBite 2462LFA frost free sillcock reviewed above.
The reason is that it has all the specifications and attributes that make functionality easy; at the same time, it comes at a reasonable price.
I hope this article has made choosing the best frost-free sillcock for your plumbing very easy for you. Did I forget other amazing frost-free sillcocks available in the market?
Have any good suggestions or experiences you would like to share about the frost-free sillcock of your choice? Drop your opinions below in the comment box.
By the way – in case you need to repair your pipe very quickly – check my FlexTapre Review to know how to do it!