Spigot vs. Faucet: What’s the Difference Between the Two?

Refreshment served two ways

Woman washing hands
Photo: Oscar Wong / Moment / Getty Images
Woman washing hands
Photo: Oscar Wong / Moment / Getty Images
Sean Jackson
Written by Sean Jackson
Contributing Writer
Updated Nov 28, 2023
Highlights

  • A spigot is an outlet used to control water flow. A faucet is also known as a tap and is responsible for allowing the flow of li

  • quids or gasses through an outlet. 

  • In some regions, spigots refer to outside water fixtures while faucets refer to indoor ones. 

  • While you can buy faucets constructed of different materials, stainless steel provides a clean look and the durability you want. 

  • To clean your faucet or spigot, you can use a damp, soapy cloth to clean the spout, handle, and drain.

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Your home comes with an abundance of water features. Getting to know these parts can help you better understand how they function. That way, if things go awry, you’ll know what the culprit can be. Our guide covers the differences and similarities between spigot versus faucet, how to replace a pitot, and cleaning tips for your faucet.

What Are the Differences Between a Spigot and Faucet?

Man washing hands in bathroom sink
Photo: Maridav / Adobe Stock

Both a spigot and a faucet serve the same purposes in that they’re outlets used to control the flow of water. However, depending on where you live, their terminology might differ. Normally, faucets refer to a device that can control both cold and hot water. Meanwhile, spigots can refer to outdoor devices used to control water from a single handle. 

Another difference between the two relates to size. Spigots are often ¾ inches, while faucets can be anywhere from 4-16 inches. Below is a summation of the differences between the two:

Type of DifferenceSpigotFaucet
LocationOutdoorsIndoors/outdoors
Size3/4 inch4 to 16 inches
Body components Handle, stem, body, and stem seal and aerator Handle, spout, valve, body, mount, and aerator
Water sourceOutdoor water supply source such as a tank or barrelConnect to the plumbing system
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Faucet vs. Spigot: Differences in Use and Application

One of the biggest differences concerns how you use both. Faucets are generally for indoor use, such as washing your hands, dishes, and being a source of drinking water. Meanwhile, you might use a spigot to water your garden or lawn. 

Differences in Water Flow

Spigots allow water to flow through the tap without usually having any temperature controls. Meanwhile, faucets not only allow you to adjust the pressure of the water coming out of your taps, you can also control the temperature too. This gives faucets a little more functionality than spigots. 

Difference in Sizes

When you compare the two, you’ll notice a big difference in sizes. Spigots tend to come in three fourths inches. By comparison, you can find a wide range of faucet styles and sizes from 4 to 16 inches. This gives you more wiggle room when you’re choosing faucet fixtures inside your home, thus complementing your kitchen or bathroom’s overall design. 

Differences in Appearance

A spigot has more of a utilitarian design, focusing on function over appearance. Faucets, meanwhile, come in a wide variety of designs and finishes to add a nice design pop to a kitchen or bathroom. 

Differences in Cost

Another key difference lies in how much you’ll pay for each one. Spigots will run you from $150 to $500, depending on the model and material you choose. By comparison, faucets can cost you in the same range, although finishes, sizes, and labor will all impact cost. A single handle faucet runs from $50 to $550; a center set model costs between $50 to $250, and a lever runs from $30 to $600. Labor for a faucet replacement is $130 to $350, for spigots it’s $100 to $500. 

Differences in Location

Old-fashioned water tap
Photo: Dirk / Adobe Stock

Finally, the biggest difference is where you’ll find both. Spigots reside outdoors, perfect for gardens or watering your lawn. Faucets tend to take up residence indoors, supplying you with a water source in your kitchen and bathroom.

Frequently Asked Questions

A few times per week, take a damp, soapy cloth and wipe down your faucet. Pay close attention to the spout, wiping it thoroughly to remove any mineral deposits. Also, once a month, wipe the cloth with a vinegar and water solution. After application, run your water to rinse the spout thoroughly, freeing any debris that might be hanging on.

Turn on the water to each faucet and check the area for water trickling out from anyplace but the spout. Next, shut off the water and see if there’s any residue which could indicate a worn down rubber seal. If you find any water, you can replace the rubber seal or have a plumber do it for you.

Replacing faucets isn’t the easiest task, but with the tools and technical know-how, you can complete this project in an hour or two. If you don’t have any experience installing faucets, you’ll want to hire a plumber to do the work. The average service call cost of a plumber is $333, but it can also give you the opportunity to learn how to install one for future reference.

You can use the outdoor spigot to do many things like cleaning patio furniture, washing down driveways, or watering plants. You can also attach outdoor hoses and some sprinkler systems to your spigot, making it much easier to keep your grass and plants watered. When connecting a hose or sprinkler system to your outdoor spigot, pay close attention to the manufacturer’s instructions, as they can ensure a snug fit with no leaks.

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Learn more about our contributor
Sean Jackson
Written by Sean Jackson
Contributing Writer
Sean Jackson is a freelance copywriter from Delaware, Ohio, covering real estate, home improvement, insurance, personal finance, and solar energy for CNET, Bankrate, ZDNet, and Marketwatch.

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