A spigot in plumbing is the plain or male end of a pipe or fitting designed to fit into another pipe or fitting. It is commonly used to create a connection between two components in a plumbing, drainage or pipework system.
The term spigot can have slightly different meanings depending on the type of plumbing or pipework being discussed. In drainage and soil systems, for example, a spigot is typically the plain end of a pipe that fits into a socket or another fitting.
In this guide, we'll explain what a spigot is, how spigot connections work, where they're used and the difference between a spigot and a socket.
What Is a Spigot?
In plumbing, a spigot is the plain or male end of a pipe or fitting that is designed to connect into a socket or female connection.
A spigot does not necessarily have to be threaded. In many drainage and soil pipe systems, the spigot is simply the plain end of the pipe that pushes into the socket of another fitting.
The exact design of a spigot depends on the pipework system and the type of connection being made.
What Is a Spigot End of a Pipe?
The spigot end of a pipe is the end designed to fit into a corresponding socket or fitting.
For example, a soil pipe may have a socket at one end and a plain spigot at the other. The spigot is inserted into the socket to create the connection.
Depending on the system, the connection may use a rubber seal, push-fit connection, solvent cement or another approved joining method.
Always follow the manufacturer's instructions for the specific pipe and fitting system you're using.
What Is a Spigot Connection?
A spigot connection is a connection where the spigot or plain end of one pipe or fitting is inserted into the socket of another component.
The socket is designed to receive the spigot and provide a secure connection.
Spigot and socket connections are commonly found in:
- Soil and waste pipe systems
- Above-ground drainage
- Underground drainage systems
- Plastic pipework
- Water and other fluid pipework
- Commercial and industrial pipe systems
The exact connection method depends on the pipe material and manufacturer's system.
What Are Spigots Used For?
Spigots are used wherever pipes or fittings need to connect into a compatible socket or fitting.
Common applications include:
Soil & Waste Systems
Spigot and socket connections are widely used in soil and waste pipework. Pipe lengths and fittings can be joined together using compatible sockets and seals.
Drainage Systems
Spigot ends are also used in drainage pipework, allowing pipes and fittings to connect together to create a continuous drainage system.
Water Pipework
Some water pipe and fitting systems use spigot and socket connections, although the exact connection method varies between manufacturers and applications.
Commercial & Industrial Pipework
Larger pipework systems can also use spigot and socket connections where the pipe design and installation method require them.
Spigot vs Socket: What's the Difference?
The easiest way to understand the difference is:
Spigot = the end that fits inside.
Socket = the fitting that receives the spigot.
A typical connection therefore consists of a spigot being inserted into a socket.
The two components are designed to work together to create a secure pipe connection.
Are Spigots Threaded?
Not always.
This is one of the important points to understand about plumbing spigots.
A spigot can be a plain pipe end designed to fit into a socket, rather than a threaded connection.
Some fittings may have threaded ends as part of their design, but a spigot should not automatically be assumed to have a male thread.
Always check the manufacturer's product description and specifications to determine the type of connection.
What Is a Spigot Fitting?
A spigot fitting is a pipe fitting with a spigot end designed to connect into a compatible socket or fitting.
Spigot fittings can include different shapes and configurations depending on the pipework system, such as:
- Straight connectors
- Bends
- Elbows
- Branches
- Adaptors
- Other drainage and pipework fittings
The correct fitting will depend on the pipe diameter, material, connection type and application.
What Does Spigotted Mean?
Spigotted simply means that a pipe or fitting has a spigot end designed to connect into another component.
You may see the term used in product descriptions, technical documentation and plumbing specifications.
For example, a fitting described as having a spigotted end has an end designed to fit into a compatible socket or connection.
How Do You Choose the Correct Spigot Fitting?
When choosing a spigot or spigot fitting, check the following:
- Pipe diameter
- Pipe material
- Connection type
- Socket compatibility
- Seal or joining method
- Application
- Manufacturer and pipe system
It's important to use compatible components from the relevant pipework system. A fitting that looks like it will connect may not necessarily be compatible with a particular pipe or manufacturer's system.
Shop Spigots & Plumbing Fittings at Plumbco
At Plumbco, we stock a range of plumbing and drainage fittings from leading manufacturers, including Polypipe, Wavin, Osma and other established brands.
Whether you're replacing a drainage fitting, extending a soil system or looking for a compatible pipe connection, check the product specifications carefully to make sure you select the correct size and connection type.
Browse our range of plumbing fittings or visit us in-store for further assistance with your plumbing requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a spigot in plumbing?
A spigot is the plain or male end of a pipe or fitting designed to fit into a compatible socket or female connection.
What is the spigot end of a pipe?
The spigot end is the end of a pipe designed to fit inside the socket of another pipe or fitting.
What is a spigot connection?
A spigot connection is made when the spigot end of one pipe or fitting connects into the socket of another compatible component.
Are spigots threaded?
Not necessarily. Many plumbing and drainage spigots are plain ends designed to fit into a socket rather than being threaded.
What is the difference between a spigot and a socket?
A spigot is the end that fits into the connection, while a socket is the part designed to receive the spigot.
