Having an outdoor faucet that leaks when you turn it on can be very frustrating. But don’t worry – this issue can often be fixed with some basic troubleshooting and plumbing repairs. Here is a comprehensive guide to diagnosing and fixing an outdoor faucet that leaks from the handle when turned on.
What Causes an Outdoor Faucet to Leak from the Handle?
There are a few common reasons why water may leak from an outdoor faucet handle when it is turned on:
Worn Out Rubber Washers
The most common cause of leaking from the handle is worn out rubber washers. There are washers inside the faucet both behind the handle and near the valve seat that help seal the water flow. Over time, these rubber washers get compressed and degraded, causing leaks even when the faucet is turned off completely. Replacing these washers is the easiest fix in most cases.
Damaged Valve Seat
The valve seat is the area inside the faucet body that the washers press against to seal the water flow. If this surface gets worn down or corroded over time, it can prevent a tight seal and cause leaking. Replacing the washers may help temporarily, but eventually the valve seat may need to be repaired or replaced to fully fix the leak.
Broken O-Ring
Many outdoor faucets have o-rings around the stem or cartridge to prevent leaks. If these o-rings dry out or get damaged, they can cause leaks from the handle or spout. Replacing the o-rings is an easy fix in most cases.
Mineral Build-Up
In areas with hard water, mineral deposits can accumulate on the internal parts of the faucet over time. This build-up can prevent proper sealing and cause leaks. Soaking the faucet parts in vinegar or lemon juice can help remove some of this mineral build-up.
Loose Packing Nut
The packing nut holds the cartridge or stem assembly in place inside the faucet body. If this nut becomes loose, it can cause the cartridge to shift and leak when the handle is turned on. Tightening this nut carefully with an adjustable wrench is often all that’s needed to stop the leak.
Damaged Cartridge
Cartridge-style outdoor faucets rely on an inner cartridge to control the water flow and mixing. If this cartridge becomes excessively worn or damaged, it will need to be replaced to stop any leaking issues.
Diagnosing the Exact Source of the Leak
Determining the exact location the leak is coming from is important for fixing an outdoor faucet. Here are some tips for diagnosing the source:
- Check with the water off – Turn off the shutoff valve for the faucet and open the handle to release pressure. This will allow you to thoroughly inspect for leaks with the water off.
- Inspect washers and o-rings – Remove the faucet handle and look for worn, cracked or flattened washers. Also check for damaged o-rings around the cartridge or stem.
- Test valve seat sealing – Turn the water back on very slightly so you can see if water leaks out around the valve seat when the handle is closed.
- Look for drips near the spout – Closely watch the spout and the joints leading up to it for any drips or moisture while the handle is turned on.
- Feel for loose parts – Wiggle the handle while the water is off to feel for any loose internal parts that could be causing leaks.
- Check exterior hose connections – Make sure all threaded connections to exterior hoses are tight and leak-free.
Once you’ve identified the exact location of the leak, you can determine the proper repair method.
How to Fix a Leaking Outdoor Faucet Handle
Here are step-by-step instructions for the most common ways to fix an outdoor faucet leaking from the handle when turned on:
Replacing Rubber Washers
- Turn off water supply and relieve pressure by opening the faucet handle.
- Unscrew and remove the handle with a screwdriver or Allen wrench.
- Locate the circular rubber washers inside the faucet under the handle. Remove any worn or degraded washers.
- Bring the old washers to the hardware store to find exact replacement rubber washers.
- Put the new washers in the same positions and reassemble the handle.
- Turn the water back on slowly and test for leaks. Tighten if necessary.
Fixing a Damaged Valve Seat
- Shut off water and remove handle and washers as outlined above.
- Use valve seat grinding tool to smooth out any irregularities in the valve seat surface.
- If seat is too badly damaged, replace the brass valve seat insert. May require reaming and tapping the faucet housing.
- Clean out any debris, replace washers and handle, and test for leaks.
Replacing Damaged O-Rings
- Shut off water and relieve pressure. Remove handle and any retaining nuts or clips.
- Pull out the cartridge or stem assembly and inspect o-rings for cracks or damage.
- Use petroleum jelly or plumber’s grease to lubricate new replacement o-rings of the correct size.
- Carefully reinstall stem or cartridge, tighten retaining nuts/clips, and reattach handle.
- Turn water back on slowly and check for leaks around the handle.
Removing Mineral Build-Up
- Remove faucet handle and internal components like washers, o-rings, cartridges etc.
- Soak these parts overnight in white vinegar or a 50/50 vinegar and water solution to dissolve mineral deposits. Use an old toothbrush to scrub.
- Rinse parts thoroughly with water and reinstall in faucet. May need to replace washers/o-rings.
- Turn on water supply and check for any remaining leaks.
Tightening Packing Nut
- Turn off water supply and relieve pressure.
- Locate the packing nut on the stem/cartridge assembly inside the faucet.
- Carefully tighten this nut using adjustable pliers or wrench – tighten 1/4 turn at a time checking for leak after each turn.
- Turn water back on slowly and test to make sure leak is resolved without overtightening.
Replacing Cartridge
- Turn off water and remove handle, retaining nut/clip and old cartridge.
- Make sure new replacement cartridge matches the brand and model of the faucet.
- Install new cartridge ensuring correct alignment. Reinstall retaining nut/clip.
- Reattach handle, turn on water and test operation for leaks. May need to adjust cartridge position or tighten retaining nut if leak persists.
Preventing Future Leaks
Here are some tips to help prevent outdoor faucet leaks in the future:
- Inspect washers and o-rings yearly for cracking – replace proactively if showing wear.
- Make sure packing nut is adjusted properly to prevent loosening over time.
- Lubricate stem and o-rings regularly with plumber’s grease to prevent drying out.
- Drain and shut off outdoor faucets before first freeze of winter to avoid freeze damage.
- Disconnect hoses during freezing weather so water doesn’t remain in the faucet body.
- Consider installing frost-free faucets with long interior valve stems that allow water to drain out.
- Replace washers, o-rings, packing, and cartridges proactively every 5-10 years or at first signs of leaks.
- Clean faucet interior regularly to prevent mineral buildup, using vinegar and scrubbing.
- Ensure spout mouth and nearby exterior threads are kept free of dirt, stains or debris buildup.
- Keep the faucet handle moving smoothly – don’t force a stuck handle or allow sticky mineral deposits to build up.
With proper preventative maintenance and following these troubleshooting tips, you can stop frustrating outdoor faucet leaks from the handle and enjoy convenient exterior water access for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most common causes of an outdoor faucet leaking from the handle when turned on?
The most common causes are worn out rubber washers, damaged valve seats, broken o-rings, mineral deposits, loose packing nuts, and damaged cartridges.
Where exactly should I check for leaks on an outdoor faucet?
Check below the handle where the washers sit, at the valve seat, along the stem or cartridge, near the spout mouth, and at all exterior hose connections.
How can I remove mineral deposits on my outdoor faucet parts?
Soaking the washers, o-rings, cartridges and other internal parts in white vinegar or a 50/50 vinegar water solution will help dissolve mineral buildup. Scrub with an old toothbrush.
Do I need any special tools to repair an outdoor faucet leak?
You may need screwdrivers, adjustable pliers, valve seat grinding tools, Teflon tape, and wrenches to fully disassemble and repair an outdoor faucet leak.
Can I fix an outdoor faucet leak without shutting off the main water supply?
It is not recommended – make sure to shut off the water supply and relieve pressure before attempting any repairs to avoid injury or complications.
How can I prevent my outdoor faucets from leaking during winter freezing weather?
Drain and shut off all outdoor faucets before the first freeze. Disconnect hoses and install insulated faucet covers to prevent freeze damage. Consider installing frost-free faucets.
Why does my faucet still leak after replacing the washers?
If replacing washers hasn’t fixed a handle leak, issues like a damaged valve seat, worn cartridge, loose packing nut or mineral deposits may be causing the lingering leak.
Does replacing o-rings require turning off the water supply to the entire house?
No, you just need to turn off the shutoff valve for that specific outdoor faucet before replacing o-rings on the faucet stem or cartridge.
How often should I replace rubber washers on outdoor faucets?
Washers should be inspected each year and replaced at first signs of cracking or flattening. Most experts recommend full faucet rebuilds with new washers every 5-10 years.
Can I lubricate outdoor faucet parts with regular household oils?
No, you should specifically use plumber’s grease, petroleum jelly or silicone-based lubricants approved for plumbing to lubricate o-rings, stems and washers.
Conclusion
A leaky outdoor faucet handle can often be fixed with a few simple plumbing repairs like replacing washers, o-rings, cartridges or valve seats. Identifying the exact source of the leak is key to diagnosing the issue. Regular preventative maintenance like lubricating parts, replacing items proactively and cleaning mineral deposits can help prevent annoying faucet handle leaks in the future. Armed with the right troubleshooting techniques and plumbing knowledge, you can successfully stop outdoor faucet annoyances and keep your exterior water access functioning properly.