Identification

• A hose bib is known in common terms as a spigot. It's the threaded end of a water line that makes it possible for a hose to be connected. In most homes, a hose bib is installed outside so that garden hoses can be connected. The most common location inside the home is in the laundry room so that a washing machine can be connected.
  
  

Types

• There are several types of hose bibs. Frost free hose bibs are commonly found at the outside spigot where temperatures are colder and at risk of freezing. Non-frost free hose bibs function the say way, but are susceptible to freezing. Round plastic hose bibs are found on water heaters and are used to drain the water out for cleaning or maintenance. Finally, knobbed hose bibs are also found on water heaters, but requires a pipe wrench to tighten and loosen.
  
  

HB and Hose Bib Parts

• The HB designation is also commonly used in part numbers for hose bibs. For example, HB-075M could refer to a hose nib (HB) with a ¾-inch handle (075) and a male connection (M).