What Is a Faucet Nipple?
A faucet nipple is a component attached to a faucet to facilitate hose connection. While commonly known as a faucet nipple, the terminology may vary by manufacturer. They are adaptable for various indoor and outdoor faucet designs.
Uses of Faucet Nipples
Faucet nipples enable the secure attachment of hoses for tasks like crop irrigation, garden and pathway watering, and car washing. They prevent hose disconnection under increased water pressure and are essential when the faucet’s diameter is larger than the hose or if the faucet has a unique shape.
Features of Faucet Nipples
Pros
Faucet nipples provide a secure connection, minimizing the risk of hose detachment due to water pressure. They simplify hose attachment and detachment and are versatile enough for use with different faucet shapes, including indoor taps.
Cons
Incompatibility with the faucet standard can lead to disconnections. Screw-on types may damage the faucet if over-tightened, and uneven screw tightening can lead to detachment under pressure. Plastic nipples, while useful, are not recommended for outdoor use due to rapid deterioration from UV exposure and weather conditions.
Types of Faucet Nipples
Indoor and outdoor applications typically dictate the type of faucet nipple used, available in metal and plastic materials.
1. Indoor Faucet Nipples
Foam nipples suit kitchen and bathroom mixers, while specific types are designed for washing machine faucets, including those with stopper functions to prevent water flow if the laundry hose disconnects. For square faucets, commonly found in washbasins and outdoor taps, nipples accommodating both round and square shapes are useful.
2. Outdoor Faucet Nipples
Outdoor options include rounded ends tightened with screws and coupling types. The round tip often requires an adjuster on the hose side, while coupling types work well for faucet posts and underground sprinkler boxes.
How to Choose Faucet Nipples
Select based on indoor or outdoor use and faucet shape. Measure the faucet’s outer diameter and choose a matching nipple. For square faucets, opt for nipples compatible with both round and square shapes. Metal nipples are preferable for outdoor use due to their durability.
How to Use Faucet Nipples
The installation varies by type:
1. Round Faucet
Loosen the screws on the nipple, attach it to the faucet, and evenly tighten the screws with a screwdriver.
2. Faucet With a Coupling
Remove the coupling, then install the nipple (open the lid for underground faucets).
3. Mixers
Remove the bubble cap, install the nipple, and use an adapter as needed, based on the faucet’s standard.
4. Washing Machine Faucet
Turn off the faucet, remove the hose, and attach the nipple, ensuring it’s securely hooked. Regularly check and replace the rubber inside the nipple to prevent leakage or detachment.