The Ultimate Guide to the Outdoors: Transforming Your Exterior with Tap Kits

An exterior tap kit provides an easy and affordable way to bring running water to your outdoor space. Whether you're looking to wash your car, water your plants, or fill a pool, an outdoor tap can make your life a lot easier.

Why You Need an Exterior Tap Kit

There are many benefits to having an exterior tap kit. Here are just a few:

• Convenience: No more lugging heavy buckets of water back and forth from your indoor sink. With an exterior tap, you can simply turn on the water and start watering your plants or washing your car.
• Save time: Using an exterior tap can save you a lot of time, especially if you have a large yard or a lot of outdoor chores to do. No more wasting time filling up buckets or running inside to get water.
• Water conservation: An exterior tap can help you conserve water, as you'll only use as much water as you need. You won't have to worry about overwatering your plants or wasting water while you're washing your car.
• Increased home value: An exterior tap can add value to your home, as it makes your property more attractive and functional. Potential buyers will appreciate the convenience of having an outdoor water source.

What to Look for in an Exterior Tap Kit

When choosing an exterior tap kit, there are a few things you'll want to keep in mind:

• Type of tap: There are two main types of taps: frost-free taps and non-freezing. Frost-free taps are designed to withstand freezing temperatures, while non-freezing taps are not. If you live in a cold climate, you'll want to choose a frost-free tap.
• Material: Taps are made from a variety of materials, including brass, plastic, and stainless steel. Brass is the most durable, but it's also the most expensive. Plastic taps are less durable, but they're also more affordable. Stainless steel taps are a good compromise between durability and price.
• Flow rate: The flow rate of a tap is measured in gallons per minute (GPM). The higher the flow rate, the faster the water will come out of the tap. If you're planning on using the tap for high-volume tasks like washing your car or filling a pool, you'll want to choose a tap with a high flow rate.
• Features: Some taps come with additional features, such as a built-in aerator or a swivel head. An aerator can help to conserve water and reduce splash, while a swivel head allows you to easily reach all areas of your outdoor space.

How to Install an Exterior Tap Kit

Installing an exterior tap kit is a relatively simple task that can be completed in a few hours. Here are the steps:

1. Choose a location: The first step is to choose a location for your exterior tap. The tap should be located in a convenient spot that's easy to access. You'll also need to make sure that there's a water supply nearby.
2. Dig a trench: Once you've chosen a location, you'll need to dig a trench from the water supply to the tap. The trench should be deep enough to accommodate the water pipe and the tap.
3. Install the water pipe: Next, you'll need to install the water pipe. The pipe should be made of a durable material, such as copper or PVC. Make sure to connect the pipe to the water supply and the tap.
4. Install the tap: The final step is to install the tap. Place the tap in the trench and tighten the nuts. Make sure that the tap is level and that it's facing the right direction.

Effective Strategies for Using an Exterior Tap Kit

Once you've installed your exterior tap kit, there are a few things you can do to ensure that it lasts for many years to come:

• Protect the tap from freezing: If you live in a cold climate, you'll need to protect your exterior tap from freezing. You can do this by wrapping the tap in insulation or by installing a heat cable.
• Winterize the tap: If you're going to be away from home for an extended period of time during the winter, you should winterize your exterior tap. This involves draining the water from the tap and the pipe.
• Inspect the tap regularly: Make sure to inspect your exterior tap regularly for leaks or damage. If you find any problems, you should repair them immediately.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Using an Exterior Tap Kit

Here are some common mistakes to avoid when using an exterior tap kit:

• Using the tap in freezing temperatures: This can damage the tap and the water pipe.
• Overtightening the tap: This can damage the tap or the pipe.
• Ignoring leaks: If you notice a leak, you should repair it immediately. A leak can cause water damage to your home or property.
• Installing the tap in an inconvenient location: This can make it difficult to access the tap and use it for watering plants or washing your car.

Conclusion

An exterior tap kit is a great way to add convenience and functionality to your outdoor space. By following these tips, you can choose the right tap kit for your needs and ensure that it lasts for many years to come.

Tables

Table 1: Types of Exterior Taps

Table 2: Materials Used to Make Exterior Taps

Table 3: Features of Exterior Taps