An outdoor faucet, also known as a hose bib, spigot, or sillcock, allows you to access water outside your home for tasks like watering plants, washing cars, filling pools, and more. However, outdoor faucets can develop leaks, drips, and other problems over time due to exposure to the elements. Fixing an outdoor faucet is usually a straightforward DIY project that can save you money on plumber fees. This comprehensive guide will teach you everything you need to know about diagnosing issues with your outdoor faucet and making common repairs.

What You’ll Need to Fix an Outdoor Faucet

Before getting started on any outdoor faucet repair project, you’ll want to gather the necessary tools and materials. Having these items on hand will make the process smoother and help you complete the job safely. Here’s what you should have on hand:

• Adjustable wrenches – You’ll need two wrenches to loosen nuts and fittings on the faucet. Make sure they properly fit the sizes of nuts and valves.
• Replacement washers and o-rings – Most outdoor faucet leaks and drips can be fixed by replacing old, worn washers and o-rings. Have a variety of sizes on hand.
• Teflon tape – Used to wrap pipe threads to create a tighter seal. Ensures a watertight connection.
• Rag – For cleaning up any water leaks or drips during the repair.
• Silicone grease or lubricant – Helps provide a watertight seal on o-rings. Prevents cracking and damage.
• Flashlight – Allows you to see all the faucet parts clearly, even in shady spots.
• Replacement faucet or parts – For repairs that require new components like stems, spouts, etc. Match model numbers.
• Pipe wrench – Helpful for loosening very tight or corroded fittings. Provides extra leverage.
• Safety goggles – Protect your eyes from debris while working on the faucet.

Before starting any work, make sure to turn off the water supply to the outdoor faucet at the interior shut-off valve. This will prevent water from spraying out when you disassemble the faucet. Having all your tools and supplies organized ahead of time will make the repair process as quick and painless as possible.

Common Outdoor Faucet Problems

There are several common issues that can occur with outdoor faucets:

Dripping/Leaking

The most typical problem is a faucet that leaks or drips constantly from the spout, even when the water is shut off. This is usually due to worn washers or o-rings that need to be replaced.

Low Water Pressure

If your outdoor faucet’s water stream seems weaker than normal, low water flow and pressure could be caused by clogged pipes or valves. Cleaning or replacing internal parts may help.

Loose Handles/Connections

Handles that are loose and wiggle indicate connections that may have come loose over time. Tightening nuts and valves can usually stop handles from moving around freely.

Spout Doesn’t Stay in Place

If your faucet spout swivels around when you’re using it, the faucet body may be stripped or need a tighter connection at the base.

Hard to Shut Off

It can be difficult to get an outdoor faucet to fully shut off. This often means that washers, o-rings or valve seats are excessively worn or corroded.

Frozen Pipes

In cold climates, outdoor faucets can freeze solid when temperatures drop. This blocks water from flowing properly until thawed. Insulating coverings can help prevent freezing.

By identifying the specific problem your outdoor faucet is having, you can zero in on the necessary fix and parts you’ll need for the repair. Checking for leaks, drips, and other issues periodically can help catch problems before they worsen. Now let’s go over how to tackle some of the most common outdoor faucet repairs.

How to Fix a Leaky Outdoor Faucet

The most frequent problem with outdoor spigots is a leak or drip coming from the faucet spout. This issue is typically caused by worn-out rubber washers or o-rings that need replacing. Here are the steps to fix a leaky outdoor faucet:

Step 1: Turn Off the Water Supply

Locate the shut-off valve for the outdoor faucet, usually found inside near the main water line. Turn the valve clockwise to shut off the water.

Step 2: Remove the Faucet Handle

Use an adjustable wrench to loosen and remove the nut holding the handle in place. Pull off the handle.

Step 3: Remove the Spout Cap

Look for a set screw or Allen screw beneath the handle and loosen it with an Allen wrench. Take off the domed spout cap covering the faucet body.

Step 4: Remove the Packing Nut & Stem

Use adjustable wrenches to loosen and remove the packing nut holding the stem in place. Carefully pull out the stem.

Step 5: Replace Washers & O-Rings

Examine the rubber washers at the base of the stem and replace if worn. Also replace worn o-rings on the stem with new ones.

Step 6: Reassemble the Faucet

Put the faucet back together by reversing the steps above. Make sure parts are securely tightened.

Step 7: Turn Water Back On

Slowly turn the shut-off valve back on. Check for any drips or leaks around newly replaced washers/o-rings.

Be sure to secure all connections tightly with wrenches. If leaks persist, you may need to further tighten parts or repeat washer/o-ring replacement. This should stop dripping and restore proper water flow.

Fixing Low Outdoor Faucet Water Pressure

If you notice the water stream from your outdoor spigot seems weaker than normal, there are a few steps you can take to improve low water pressure:

• Clean the faucet’s aerator screen – Use a small brush to clear out any mineral deposits or debris clogging the flow.
• Inspect valves for blockages – Take apart the faucet and check for anything obstructing the valves and internal waterways. Remove any dirt, corrosion, or buildup.
• Replace valve seats/springs – Hard water deposits can prevent valve seats from sealing properly. New seats and springs can help restore water pressure.
• Check supply lines for kinks – Straighten out any kinked exterior hose lines that could be restricting flow.
• Insulate above-ground pipes – Insulating exposed pipes can prevent freeze damage that limits water flow during cold weather.
• Install water pressure booster – For chronically low pressure, a booster pump system can increase water pressure from the main line.

Improving water pressure for an outdoor faucet may require a little trial and error. Start with easier solutions like aeration screen cleaning before moving on to replacing internal valve parts or installing a booster pump if needed. This will get your outdoor water pressure back up where it needs to be.

Tightening a Loose Outdoor Faucet Handle

If you find your outdoor faucet’s handle is loose and moves around when you turn the water on and off, it likely just needs some tightening of the interior connections:

Step 1: Remove the Handle & Spout Cap

Use a wrench to detach the handle by loosening the retaining nut. Take off the domed spout cap.

Step 2: Tighten the Packing Nut

Use an adjustable wrench to tighten the packing nut around the stem underneath the spout. Tighten firmly but take care not to strip the threads.

Step 3: Inspect Washers & O-Rings

Examine rubber washers and o-rings while you have the faucet disassembled. Replace if any seem cracked, dried out, or defective.

Step 4: Check Stem Connection

Make sure the valve stem is threaded tightly into the faucet body. Use a wrench to snug up the connection if needed.

Step 5: Reassemble Faucet

Replace the spout cap and handle. Tighten the handle nut securely with your adjustable wrench to keep the handle stable.

Step 6: Test Water Flow

Turn the water back on and check that the handle no longer wiggles or moves side-to-side when operating the faucet.

Taking the time to tighten all nuts, valves, and connections makes a big difference in keeping outdoor faucet handles functioning properly over the long term. Be sure to re-tighten periodically as needed.

Fixing an Outdoor Faucet Spout That Won’t Stay in Place

If your outdoor faucet’s spout swivels or rotates when you turn the water on, the faucet body is most likely stripped or needs tightened. Here’s how to secure it:

Step 1: Shut Off Water

Locate the shut-off valve indoors and turn it off to stop water flowing to the faucet.

Step 2: Inspect Faucet Base

Check where the spout meets the faucet body for any cracks orstripped threading that could allow movement.

Step 3: Remove Spout

Use wrenches to loosen and detach the spout. Also remove any washers or o-rings present.

Step 4: Clean and Apply Plumber’s Putty

Thoroughly clean the faucet base and spout openings. Apply fresh plumber’s putty around the base to create a new seal.

Step 5: Reinstall Spout

Thread the spout back into the faucet body, tightening securely with wrenches. Wipe away any excess putty.

Step 6: Test Spout

Slowly turn the water back on and test to make sure the spout remains fixed and doesn’t twist or turn under water pressure.

Be patient removing any old putty and resealing the connection. This will stop the spout from moving around when the faucet is in use.

Unfreezing a Frozen Outdoor Faucet

In cold climates, failing to winterize outdoor faucets can result in frozen pipes when temperatures drop. Here are some tips for thawing and unfreezing a frozen outdoor spigot:

• Use a hair dryer or heat gun to warm the froze area and slowly thaw the ice blockage. Avoid open flames.
• Wrap rags around the frozen section and pour hot water over them. The rags help retain heat against the pipes.
• Place a portable electric space heater near the frozen faucet and direct the heat onto the affected area.
• If able to access pipes, wrap them with insulating foam covers or heating tape to aid thawing and prevent refreezing.
• Partially open the faucet to allow melted water to drip through as thawing occurs. This relieves pressure on pipes as ice melts.
• Consider adding glycol antifreeze to stand pipes leading to the outdoor spigot to reduce freezing potential.
• Insulate spigot hose bibs with foam covers made for winterizing outdoor fixtures when temps begin dropping.

With patience and gentle warming, even badly frozen outdoor faucets can be successfully thawed and restored to working order. Prevent future freezing by insulating fixtures in fall before harsh weather arrives.

When to Call a Professional for Outdoor Faucet Repairs

While many common outdoor faucet problems can be addressed with DIY repairs, there are certain issues that may require a professional plumber’s expertise:

• Faucet needs total replacement – If the fixture is too old, damaged or faulty to repair, replacement may be needed. Professionals have the skills do this properly.
• Pipes are severely frozen, burst or cracked – Serious pipe damage requires major plumbing work best left to the experts.
• Shut-off valve and supply lines are inaccessible – If you can’t access or replace the faucet’s shut-off valve and supply hardware, call a plumber.
• Leak origin is uncertain – If you’ve eliminated the usual suspects and the leak persists, a pro can diagnose hard-to-find issues.
• Valve seat is stuck in place – Removing a corroded, stuck valve seat can be challenging. A plumber has the right tools and techniques.
• Pressure issues originate elsewhere – If outdoor faucet pressure loss can’t be fixed on-site, the main home system may require a plumber’s attention.

While DIY repairs are great for many outdoor faucet issues, don’t hesitate to bring in a professional when problems exceed your experience level. Paying for expert help can save time, money and headaches in the long run.

Outdoor Faucet Maintenance

Like any fixtures exposed to outdoor elements, your external water faucets will last longer and operate better with regular preventative maintenance:

• Inspect washers/o-rings yearly – Examine for cracks and replace as needed to maintain a drip-free seal.
• Check pipes for freeze damage each fall – Look for cracked fittings or other issues needing repair before winter.
• Clean screens/aerators seasonally – Remove built-up sediment so water flows easily.
• Use pipe insulation – Insulate above-ground sections of metallic pipe to prevent freezing.
• Install faucet covers from late fall through winter – Styrofoam outdoor faucet covers prevent freeze-ups in cold climates.
• Lubricate stem o-rings and valves – Use plumbers grease to maintain smooth operation and watertight seals.
• Clear away plant overgrowth – Trim back any nearby bushes or vegetation contacting the faucet.
• Test backflow prevention valves annually – Ensure water is flowing in the proper direction.

By adding outdoor faucet care to your seasonal home maintenance routine, you can add years of life to your spigots and avoid many common (and costly) repairs.

Conclusion

Fixing an outdoor faucet is usually an easy, DIY-friendly process. With the right tools and replacement parts, you can remedy most common outdoor spigot issues like dripping, low pressure, and frozen pipes yourself without having to call a plumber. Regular maintenance like replacing washers, insulating exposed pipes before winter, and keeping valves clear of mineral buildup can prevent many outdoor faucet breakdowns year after year. Armed with this guide, you should feel confident taking on all kinds of outdoor faucet repairs quickly and painlessly.

Frequently Asked Questions About Fixing Outdoor Faucets

1. What are the most common problems with outdoor faucets?

The most frequent issues with outdoor faucets and spigots are dripping/leaking, low water pressure, handles that are loose or won’t shut off completely, frozen pipes in winter, and spout swivel problems due to stripped threads.

2. Why does my outdoor faucet drip even when turned off?

A faucet that drips from the spout when shut off is almost always caused by worn-out rubber washers or o-rings that need replacing within the faucet. Replacing these rubber seals will stop the leak.

3. How can I get more water pressure from my outdoor faucet?

If an outdoor faucet has low pressure, try cleaning the aerator, inspecting valves and supply lines for blockages, replacing worn valve components, insulating exposed pipes, or installing a water pressure booster pump for whole-house benefit.

4. Why does my outdoor faucet leak around the handle?

If water is leaking from around the handle/stem, the packing nut likely needs tightening. This compression nut threads onto the valve stem and needs occasional tightening as the faucet ages.

5. My outdoor faucet is frozen. What should I do?

For a frozen outdoor spigot, use safe thawing methods like warm compresses, heating tapes, a hair dryer, or space heater. Open the faucet slightly to relieve pressure as thawing progresses. Prevent future freezing by insulating fixtures.

6. What maintenance is needed for outdoor faucets?

It’s smart to inspect washers and o-rings yearly, check for freezing damage in fall, clean screens/aerators, use pipe insulation, install protective faucet covers in winter, lubricate o-rings, and keep plants trimmed away from the faucet.

7. What outdoor faucet problems require a professional plumber?

If you need total faucet replacement, pipes are severely damaged, shut-off valves are inaccessible, the leak origin is uncertain, valve seats are stuck, or pressure issues originate elsewhere – it’s best to call a pro plumber.

8. How often should I replace the washers on my outdoor faucet?

Inspect the rubber washers and o-rings inside your outdoor faucet annually before winter. Replace them every 3-5 years, or whenever you notice them becoming cracked, brittle, flat, or deformed from use.

9. Why does my outdoor faucet spout move around when I turn on the water?

If an outdoor faucet’s spout spins or swivels, it likely indicates the threaded connection at its base is stripped. Re-sealing with plumber’s putty and tightening with wrenches can secure it.

10. How do I know if my outdoor faucet needs to be replaced completely?

Indications that an outdoor faucet should be fully replaced include persistent leaks that can’t be repaired, stripped/cracked parts, missing handles, sections that move freely, and significant corrosion/wear that prevents proper functioning.

Sources

Handyman Magazine – How to Fix an Outdoor Faucet

Lowe’s – How to Repair an Outdoor Faucet

[This Old House – How to Fix a Dripping Outdoor Faucet](https://www.thisoldhouse.com/plumbing/21017134/how-