In my plumbing journey, one thing I noticed people are confused between faucets and spigots. Are faucets and spigots the same thing?
Although the faucet and spigot are used to get water in the kitchen, bathroom, and garden, their use and functionalities are different. You can’t even interchange them.
Both faucets and spigots are made for different purposes. Here in this guide, I will explain the differences between a spigot and a faucet. So, you will know the right place for the faucet and spigot.
What Is a Faucet?
A faucet is a plumbing device that controls the flow of water. You will find faucets generally in the kitchen and bathroom.
The faucet allows you to get cold and hot water to complete your daily washing tasks. In the faucet, you can customize the water temperature as you need.
The different spray modes of the faucet give more customized water spray options. In the faucet, you may get a fixed spout or a spout with a pull-down or pull-out feature. You will get a single or double-handle faucet. Also, you have the option to choose between widespread and centerset faucets. If you need modern faucets, you can go with touch-activated or touchless faucets.
Faucets are available in different designs and finishes. You can find a perfect faucet match for your interior.
What Is a Spigot?
A spigot, also known as a bibcock or hose bib. A spigot comes with a single handle to control the flow of water.
Spigots are commonly used in the outside areas of the house such as the garden, backyard, etc. Spigots are designed to easily connect with hoses.
The simple on/off mechanism and focused water flow make spigots well-suited for basic exterior water usage compared to more complex indoor water requirements.
What Is The Difference Between Spigots and Faucets?
Both the spigot and faucet deliver water when you turn their handle. But their use is slightly different.
Spigots are used for outdoor washing work whereas faucets are good to use inside the house.
In faucets, you get an option for hot and cold water supply but in spigots, you only get either cold or hot water supply. Unlike faucets in spigots, you won’t get any option to change the spray mode.
Faucets provide a controlled stream of water for washing work. On the other side, spigots provide high-volume water flow for outdoor activities like watering gardens, washing cars, etc.
Faucets come with an aerator for a smooth water flow. Spigots don’t have any aerators.
Faucets can be mounted in various ways, such as deck-mounted, wall-mounted, or pendant-style. Spigots, on the other hand, are usually attached to a hose bib or a pipe protruding from a wall or floor.
Which One Is Right For You?
First, you should think about where you are going to install them.
If you need them for outside use where water pressure should be high, a spigot is a good option.
If you need them for inside use for a smooth water flow with a hot and cold water supply, a faucet is a good option for you.
Can a Spigot Be Used Inside The House and a Faucet Outside The House?
Yes, you can use a faucet outside the house and a spigot inside the house. But the washing experience from them won’t be the same.
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The spigot doesn’t provide different spray options so when you use it inside the house in the kitchen or bathroom, you only get a single water flow mode. Its high water pressure may also damage dishes and appliances.
The faucet comes with a smooth flow of water so when you use it outside, it takes more time to complete outside washing works.
Which One Has Higher Water Pressure, a Faucet or a Spigot?
Generally, the water pressure of the spigot is higher but not always. The water pressure of a faucet and a spigot depends on their model. Some faucet models have a higher water pressure than spigots. You can check their water pressure rate on their boxes.
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James Lewis is a seasoned plumber and faucet enthusiast who shares his expertise on Faucetsavvy.com. With over 15 years of experience in the plumbing industry, he’s passionate about helping homeowners find the perfect faucet for their needs. He’s also dedicated to empowering DIY enthusiasts with the plumbing knowledge and skills needed to repair and maintain their faucets.