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Frost-free Sillcock Learn how to install a frost-free sillcock. From "Ed the Plumber" episode DETP-310

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Figure A

7. Take another piece of copper pipe and remove any burrs.

8. Add flux to the end, and then place it into the end of the "T" (figure A).

9. The correct valve to use for a sillcock shut-off valve will have a small hole called a petcock, which is very important for winterization. Also, the valve will have an arrow pointing in the direction of the water flow.

10. Once the shut-off valve is in the correct position, solder all of the joints.

Note: Keep a rag handy to wipe off excess solder.

11. Close the shut-off valve, and then turn the water back on.

12. Turn off the faucet, and then check for leaks.

13. Turn the water heater back on.

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	Figure B
	Figure C
	Figure D

14. Clean and prepare several pieces of copper pipe and fittings.

15. Insert one piece into the open end of the shut off valve (figure B), and then run the other until it reaches the spot where the sillcocks will enter the home.

16. Carefully solder all of the joints.

17. Drill through the sill plate using a paddle bit (figure C). Start with a small hole from the inside of the wall to prevent running into other pipes or wires—then drill a larger hole from the outside.

Note: If you're drilling through masonry block, drill into the center and move the drill around to open up the hole. For brick, drill into the mortar (figure D).

Tip: When installing a frost-proof sillcock, bore the hole at a slight angle to the ground. This will allow the sillcock to lean towards the ground, helping to drain the area.

18. Using an extended masonry bit, widen the pilot hole. Make sure the hole is as straight as possible.

19. Remove any debris, and then fill the exposed hole with silicone caulk (figure E).

20. Clip the plastic wedge behind the sillcocks flange, and then insert the sillcock into the hole.

21. Temporarily place a wood screw in the right mounting notch. Secure the left side, then the right with self-tapping masonry screws (figure F).

Figure E

Figure F

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