Faucet vs. Spigot — What's the Difference?
By Fiza Rafique & Maham Liaqat — Updated on April 22, 2024
A faucet is a device for controlling the release of water indoors, typically in kitchens and bathrooms, while a spigot is used outdoors for tasks like gardening.
Difference Between Faucet and Spigot
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
A faucet is commonly found inside residential and commercial buildings and is designed to control the flow and temperature of water in sinks, baths, and showers. This term is often used interchangeably with "tap" in different regions. On the other hand, a spigot is a term more frequently used to describe an outdoor fixture, typically attached to exterior walls or in gardens for hoses and irrigation.
Faucets are generally more complex in design, incorporating mechanisms to mix hot and cold water, and may feature advanced technologies like touchless operation or water filtration systems. Whereas spigots are simpler, usually offering a single water line and are used for straightforward tasks such as filling buckets or connecting hoses.
The materials and construction of faucets are often designed to complement interior aesthetics and include finishes like chrome, stainless steel, or brass. Spigots, on the other hand, are built for durability and exposure to elements, commonly made from materials like galvanized steel or heavy-duty plastic.
In terms of installation, faucets are part of a home's internal plumbing system and require more precise fittings, often needing a plumber for installation or repairs. Spigots are easier to install and maintain, usually involving straightforward attachments to external pipes.
Usage context distinguishes these terms significantly: faucets are integral to daily indoor activities like cooking, cleaning, and personal hygiene. Spigots, however, are typically used for occasional outdoor tasks such as gardening, washing vehicles, or filling swimming pools.
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Comparison Chart
Location
Indoors (e.g., kitchen, bathroom)
Outdoors (e.g., garden, garage)
Complexity
Often complex with temperature control
Simpler, usually single temperature
Material
Chrome, stainless steel, brass
Galvanized steel, heavy-duty plastic
Installation
Requires professional installation
Easier, often DIY
Primary Use
Cooking, cleaning, personal hygiene
Gardening, outdoor cleaning, irrigation
Compare with Definitions
Faucet
An indoor water outlet with temperature control.
She adjusted the bathroom faucet to get warm water.
Spigot
A device used primarily in garden and yard maintenance.
Attach the hose to the spigot to start filling the pool.
Faucet
A device for controlling the release of water inside a building.
The new kitchen faucet features an innovative spray head.
Spigot
An outdoor fixture for releasing water.
He turned on the spigot to water the garden.
Faucet
A plumbing fixture that can mix hot and cold water.
Their new faucet comes with a touchless temperature control.
Spigot
A simple valve or tap outside for hoses or irrigation.
The spigot at the side of the house is leaking.
Faucet
A water control fixture, often used in kitchens and baths.
The faucet in the tub began to leak.
Spigot
A key tool for outdoor water access.
They installed a spigot near the driveway to make car washing easier.
Faucet
An essential component of indoor water systems.
The faucet needs to be replaced to modernize the kitchen.
Spigot
A durable, outdoor water outlet.
The new spigot is made of rust-resistant material.
Faucet
A device for regulating the flow of a liquid from a reservoir such as a pipe or drum. See Note at andiron.
Spigot
A faucet. See Note at andiron.
Faucet
(North America) An exposed plumbing fitting; a tap or spigot; a regulator for controlling the flow of a liquid from a reservoir.
Spigot
A wooden faucet placed in the bunghole of a cask.
Faucet
(game development) One or several systems that inject currency into the game's economy, thus controlling or preventing inflation
Spigot
The male end of a segment of pipe.
Faucet
A fixture for drawing a liquid, as water, molasses, oil, etc., from a pipe, cask, or other vessel, in such quantities as may be desired; - called also tap, and cock. It consists of a tubular spout, stopped with a movable plug, spigot, valve, or slide.
Spigot
A pin or peg used to stop the vent in a cask.
Faucet
The enlarged end of a section of pipe which receives the spigot end of the next section.
Spigot
The plug of a faucet, tap or cock.
Faucet
A regulator for controlling the flow of a liquid from a reservoir
Spigot
A water tap: a faucet or sillcock.
Spigot
(transitive) To block with a spigot.
Spigot
(transitive) To insert (a spigot).
Spigot
A pin or peg used to stop the vent in a cask; also, the plug of a faucet or cock.
Spigot
A faucet for drawing water from a pipe or cask
Spigot
A plug for a bunghole in a cask
Common Curiosities
Are faucets more expensive than spigots?
Generally, faucets are more expensive due to their complex design and aesthetic components compared to the simpler and more utilitarian spigots.
What is the primary difference between a faucet and a spigot?
A faucet is typically used indoors with features for controlling water flow and temperature, while a spigot is used outdoors for simpler water release tasks.
Can I install a faucet or spigot by myself?
Faucets might require some plumbing knowledge for proper installation, especially if they involve mixing valves; spigots are typically easier and can often be a DIY project.
Can a spigot be used indoors?
While uncommon, spigots can be used indoors, especially in utility or industrial settings, but they are primarily designed for outdoor use.
What types of faucets are available?
There are various types of faucets including single-handle, double-handle, touchless, and those with built-in filtration systems.
What should I do if my spigot freezes in the winter?
It is important to insulate spigots or use a cover to prevent freezing, and draining them before the cold season can prevent damage.
Do faucets and spigots require different types of maintenance?
Yes, faucets often require more detailed maintenance to ensure proper function of their complex mechanisms, whereas spigots need basic upkeep to prevent leaks and corrosion.
What safety measures should be taken when using spigots?
Ensure spigots are properly installed to avoid water leakage and damage, and regularly check for wear and tear.
Can a faucet be used for outdoor purposes?
While possible, faucets are not typically designed for outdoor use due to their sensitive materials and complex constructions.
Is it easy to repair a leaking faucet?
Repair complexity can vary depending on the faucet type but generally involves replacing washers or cartridges.
Can decorative elements be added to spigots?
While generally utilitarian, some spigots come with decorative features to enhance visual appeal in garden settings.
How often should faucets be replaced?
Faucets do not have a set replacement time but should be considered if they show signs of significant wear or persistent issues.
What innovations are being seen in faucet design?
Innovations include advancements in water efficiency, integrated sensors for touchless operation, and systems that filter water directly at the faucet.
How do I choose the right spigot for my garden?
Consider the material, durability, and compatibility with garden hoses and irrigation systems.
Are there environmental benefits to choosing certain faucets or spigots?
Yes, choosing faucets and spigots with water-saving features can significantly reduce water usage and environmental impact.
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Written by
Fiza RafiqueFiza Rafique is a skilled content writer at AskDifference.com, where she meticulously refines and enhances written pieces. Drawing from her vast editorial expertise, Fiza ensures clarity, accuracy, and precision in every article. Passionate about language, she continually seeks to elevate the quality of content for readers worldwide.
Co-written by
Maham Liaqat
