In reality, frost-free yard hydrants are just variations on compression faucets. This system controls the flow of water by opening and closing the plunger on a plunger stem.
The plunger on a yard hydrant, however, is attached to a long rod that extends down inside the vertical standpipe until it reaches the valve body.
Since the pump rod must reach down to where the buried water pipe is, it can be quite long.
The most common method for troubleshooting yard hydrants is to remove the pump rod and replace the plunger, which restores the hydrant’s ability to shut off the water supply.
How a Frost-Free Hydrant Works
Essentially, frost-free hydrants are long compression faucets. Water pipes running out to the hydrant location from the house should be buried deep enough to avoid frost damage.
It can be as deep as four feet below ground in some climates. During the vertical standpipe transition, the valve body is located at the junction between the horizontal pipe and the vertical standpipe.
There is typically a threaded top on the standpipe, which is usually a galvanized pipe with a 1″ diameter.
The hydrant head is attached to the standpipe at the top, usually 3 to 4 feet above the ground.
Using a fulcrum-type lever, the standpipe’s hydrant faucet raises and lowers a long pump rod (also known as an operating rod or riser rod).
There is a rubber washer or seal at the end of the plunger on the pump rod.
Pump rod and plunger in the valve are squeezed down onto the water inlet when the handle is lowered on the hydrant.
In order for water to flow up the standpipe and out the spigot, the handle must be raised, which lifts the plunger away from the water inlet.
How Do You Fix A Leaky Frost-Free Hydrant?
If your hydrant begins to leak from the top, from its lock nuts that hold it in place, or even underground, you can fix it with this standard repair.
You don’t have to worry if your wall hydrant is having problems. Replacement of the entire wall hydrant is not necessary in most cases.
There are replacement parts available to help fix issues that may occur with wall hydrants.
Identifying the make and model of a wall hydrant is the first step to ensuring the right replacement parts are available to fix a leaky or malfunctioning wall hydrant.
We will discuss the most common problems a wall hydrant may have, what caused these problems, and how to fix them.
To ensure a smooth replacement process, we’ve included step-by-step guides.
1. Wall Hydrant is Leaking when Closed (Off)
There is a good chance that the cause of this is either a worn out washer or a broken faucet seat. Replacement of the freeze-proof plunger (check valve) assembly is recommended.
Replacing the entire stem assembly may be an easier option. When you notice other components in the stem assembly wearing out, this is especially important.
It is important to find out what part of your wall hydrant is leaking. In this way, you’ll be able to identify the problem and use the correct terminology to resolve it.
2. Wall Hydrant is Leaking when Open (On)
There could be a leak from the packing nut (bonnet):
You may encounter this issue if the stem packing seal is worn out or there is a loose packing nut. The problem can be resolved by replacing the stem packing.
Nonetheless, replacing the entire stem assembly is recommended if the other components show signs of wear.
This may be due to leakage from the Vacuum Breaker Cap (Air-Vent):
The leaking could be caused by a worn, broken, or missing vacuum breaker part. In order to repair, you will need to remove the old parts and replace them with new assembly kits.
The Weep Hole may be leaking during use, which could cause the problem:
An O-ring on the check assembly is worn out, causing this issue. Leaving the faucet open for long periods will cause the issue to arise.
If the other components warrant it, you might need to replace the entire stem assembly. Otherwise, you’ll need to replace the plunger (new check assembly).
Steps to Replace the Vacuum Breaker Assembly
- Drain the faucet after shutting off the water supply to the wall hydrant, opening the wall hydrant all the way to release the pressure
- Take off the vacuum cap
- The vacuum breaker assembly should be removed
- Vacuum break kit should be reinstalled
- Turn the valve back on after closing the hydrant
- Check for leaks
Steps To Replace The Packing, Plunger Or Stem Assembly
- Turn off the water supply to the wall hydrant and fully open it
- The handle should be removed
- Remove the stem assembly by loosening the packing nut (bonnet)
- Immediately after removing the stem, reactivate the water supply for a few seconds to flush out debris, then shut it off again.
- Make sure the O-rings and other parts of the stem are not cracked or damaged
- Replace the parts that need to be replaced
- Close the hydrant and turn on the water to the wall hydrant, then reinstall stem with bonnet in open position
- Make sure there are no leaks
A List Of Common Yard Hydrant Problems
A hydrant is frost-proof because the valve has a drain port built into the bottom, which makes it frost-resistant.
The drain port is blocked when the pump rod and plunger lift away from the valve seat, causing water to flow up the standpipe.
A drain port is opened when the pump rod and plunger are lowered toward the water inlet, allowing any water in the standpipe to drain away into the ground. The ground is normally covered with gravel to ensure proper drainage.
A ruptured pipe cannot be caused by freezing because no water remains in the pipe. Water remaining inside a leaky standpipe can cause a leaky hydrant to burst if it is not fixed.
In order to ensure that your hydrant stays leak-free and does not burst, you can replace the plungers of your yard hydrant quickly and easily.
Hydrants come in many different types, so making sure you get the right parts is important.
Yard hydrant repair kits are available from many hydrant manufacturers, many of which are universal for use with a variety of hydrants.
If you need parts, you can contact the manufacturer or shop online or through your local plumbing supply store.
FAQs
1. When Should A Yard Hydrant Be Flushed?
It is common practice to flush yard hydrants once a year to maintain the quality of the water. You can flush your hydrant more frequently if it is not frequently used (about twice per year).
2. What Is The Lifespan Of A Yard Hydrant?
The life of a yard hydrant is typically a few years before it develops problems, but every yard hydrant will eventually need to be replaced. Hydrants will last longer when they are serviced with new parts when necessary.
3. How Much Does It Cost To Replace A Yard Hydrant?
The cost of replacing a yard hydrant typically ranges between $95 and $165. If you are able to perform the repair yourself, yard hydrant repair kits offer a much cheaper alternative.
Final Words
If you’re having problems with your wall hydrant, use our guide to determine what’s causing it before you remove the whole thing.
By following the step-by-step guide, you’ll ensure you’re replacing the issue correctly and won’t encounter any other issues.
