What is the flow rate required at a sillcock?

The required flow rate at a sillcock is typically set at 5 gallons per minute (gpm). This capacity ensures that the sillcock can adequately accommodate household tasks such as watering gardens, washing vehicles, or refilling pools without creating significant pressure drops in the plumbing system. A flow rate of 5 gpm strikes a balance, allowing users to perform these activities efficiently while also maintaining sufficient pressure throughout the system.

Additionally, this specification aligns with various plumbing codes and standards that aim to optimize performance and water conservation. Utilizing a sillcock with a flow rate lower than 5 gpm may lead to longer wait times for filling large containers or completing tasks, while rates exceeding this could unnecessarily waste water and increase utility costs. Therefore, a flow rate of 5 gpm is recognized as the standard that best meets both functional and regulatory requirements.