Backflow preventer on hose bibs
 

Any way to remove these. I know they are code but I get drenched from the spray everytime I turn off spigot. There is an adapter sold called Spigot master but I shave to remove the backflow preventer first.

Anybody know of any work arounds?

Use a 3/16" drill bit and gently drill out the threaded screw. Then using a pair of Channel Locks, unscrew the vacuum breaker.

I just turn it off slowly and it seems to be a lot less of a problem. Here are some online instructions on removing it, though.

Step by Step Instructions
1. Locate the Set Screw

Look at the base of the spigot where the valve connects and check for a small set screw. Not all valves have them and they should be broken off when installed to make the valve impossible to remove. It can be removed using PB blaster and a handdrill.

2. Try to remove the valve with a wrench

In some cases it will be possible to remove the valve with a little elbow grease and a wrench. Try to twist the base and see if it wiggles. If you are able to move the valve keep going until it has been removed from the faucet.

3. Use a Drill Bit

In some cases if valve will not unscrew from the faucet – especially if it is a larger arrowhead spigot. If the valve won’t turn any further use a small drill bit to drill it out the rest of the way.

All you need is a small bit, some WD-40 and pressure on the set screw. After drilling out the screw the valve should detach from the hose spigot.

4. Attach New Hose Bib

In order to convert your outdoor spigot back into a normal faucet that can use a hose you will need to install a new valve called a hose bib to replace the preventer.

They are simple to install and should allow your garden to hose to form a water-tight attachment when the water is turned on. Make sure to test out the new valve!

You can cut it off with a Dremel cutting tool. There are YouTube videos showing how to do it.

The backflow device is attached with a set screw that can be tightened, but, if you try to unscrew it the screw head will fall off.

See Post 2. I've removed and replaced dozens upon dozens of them. And whatever you do, don't try to unscrew it without first drilling out the set screw!

Agree, except use vise grips or another set of pliers to hold the spigot so the internal pipe sweat connection or glued PCV don’t get broken. I also center punch the break off screw stud, it easier just drilling the soft metal screw than housing. Plus have to be carefully not to drill into the spigot threads.

When I install new on I don’t tighten the lock screw so tight that it breaks off as designed

Just hold the hose ON while turning the water off at the bib, I rarely get a shower, just a little water at the bib.

Netpickers like me can’t stand leak.

Just now tried to shut the water off very slowly with the hose open- drying off as I type

I clamped an empty bottled water bottle (cut it down the side) over the spigot and connected hose using nylon ties. This captures the spray.

Backflow - remove the screen
 

alternative - remove the screen and leave the brass fitting. Wonder who in the world made these mandatory !!!:a040:

Just rap a towel around it before turning it off.
Then throw wet towel in washer, dryer or hang it up to dry.
:welcome::bigbow::welcome:

Your lovely government and water system for your health.

Flow the hose while turning off the spigot. It won’t spray you. Easy work around. 👌🏼

tried that- didnt work for me- still drenched