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What Is a Yard Hydrant?
A yard hydrant is an outdoor water fixture that provides access to running water in areas away from a building, such as gardens, farms, or barns. What makes it unique is the shutoff valve is buried below the frost line, allowing water to drain out of the pipe after each use. This prevents freezing and makes yard hydrants ideal for cold climates.
How Does a Yard Hydrant Work?
A yard hydrant works via a vertical pipe connected to an underground water supply. When the handle is lifted, it opens a valve at the bottom of the pipe, allowing pressurized water to rise and flow out of the spout. When the handle is lowered, the valve closes and a drain port opens, letting any remaining water in the riser pipe drain into the gravel bed below, which prevents freezing during the winter. The system works without electricity and provides reliable outdoor water access year-round.
How Much Does Yard Hydrant Installation Cost?
The cost to hire a professional plumber to install a yard hydrant ranges from $300 to $700 on average. The price varies based mainly on depth, location, and existing plumbing.
Are Yard Hydrants, In-Ground Water Spigots, and In-Ground Hose Bibs the Same Thing?
No, yard hydrants, in-ground water spigots, and in-ground hose bibs are not the same, although they serve similar purposes.
A yard hydrant is a frost-proof outdoor water fixture with a shutoff valve buried below the frost line. It is operated with an above-ground handle and drains automatically when turned off. Yard hydrants are ideal for year-round use in gardens, barns, or rural properties.
An in-ground water spigot typically refers to a water outlet installed inside a valve box at or below ground level. These spigots may or may not have frost protection and are often operated using a special key or tool rather than a standard handle.
An in-ground hose bib is a recessed outdoor faucet designed for connecting a hose. It is usually installed at ground level or slightly below, often in a valve box, and may be concealed for aesthetic or safety reasons. These are typically used for lawn irrigation and seasonal outdoor tasks, but are not always frost-proof.
Red vs Blue Yard Hydrant
Red and blue hydrants often indicate different brands or flow ratings. Red hydrants (like Woodford models) are widely used and known for durability. Blue hydrants may signify a different manufacturer or a lighter-duty model. The color isn’t standardized, so check specs like flow rate, pipe compatibility, and freeze protection features when choosing which one to buy.