How an outside tap is fitted
Most outside taps are fed from the cold mains, often teed off near the kitchen sink. A pipe runs through the wall to a wall-mounted tap outside. Ideally, there's an isolating valve inside the house so the tap can be turned off and drained in winter.
Backflow protection
Water regulations require outside taps to be protected against backflow – dirty water being drawn back into the drinking water supply from a hose left in a pond, bucket or garden. This is usually done with a double check valve, either built into the tap or fitted on the pipe. Many outside tap kits include one.
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Protecting it from frost
- Fit an isolating valve inside the house
- Turn it off and drain the outside section before winter
- Use an insulated tap cover
- Disconnect hoses in freezing weather
- Lag any exposed pipe
Costs and options
A standard outside tap installation is often in the region of £100–£220 including the tap and fittings, depending on where the supply comes from and how thick the wall is. Hot and cold outside taps, taps at the end of the garden and taps with lockable handles are also possible but cost more.
