a yard hydrant of a type utilizes a reciprocating valve for controlling the flow in a hydrant flow pipe vertically movable within a standpipe . the lower end of the flow pipe has a valve body attached thereto for controlling the flow of water from a supply of water under pressure . an upper end of the flow pipe is secured to the hydrant head and in flow communication therewith and such head is vertically movable with the flow pipe and valve body relative to the standpipe . the opening of the valve is accomplished by elevating the hydrant head with respect to the standpipe and the ground , which correspondingly elevates the flow pipe and valve body to the open position of the valve . closing the valve is accomplished by lowering the hydrant head , flow pipe and valve body , which simultaneously allows water to drain from the hydrant head / flow pipe / valve .