Dealing with an old leaky outdoor faucet can be frustrating, but fixing it yourself is usually quite straightforward. With some basic tools and a little know-how, you can have that outdoor faucet working like new again in no time.
What Causes Outdoor Faucet Leaks?
There are a few common reasons an old outdoor faucet might start to drip or leak:
- Worn washers – The washers inside the faucet handle can become flattened or deteriorated over time, preventing a tight seal and allowing water to drip out. This is one of the most common causes of leaky outdoor faucets.
- Mineral buildup – Hard water deposits and mineral buildup from years of use can prevent the faucet from fully closing. This is especially common with old galvanized pipes.
- Frozen pipes – If water freezes inside the pipe leading to the outdoor faucet, it can cause cracks and damage that leads to leaks.
- Age and corrosion – Old outdoor faucets made of materials like brass can eventually corrode and develop holes or cracks that leak water.
Gather Necessary Materials
Before starting any repair work, make sure you have the right supplies on hand. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Adjustable wrenches
- Replacement washers
- Pipe tape
- Rag or towel
- Bucket
- Flashlight
- Needle-nose pliers (optional)
Purchase a washer repair kit with a variety of size washers, as the size you need will depend on your specific outdoor faucet. It’s also a good idea to have some pipe tape on hand to re-seal pipe threads.
Shut Off Water Supply
The first step is to locate the shut-off valve for the outdoor faucet and turn off the water supply. This valve is usually located inside your home, either under a sink or in your basement near the main water line.
Shutting off the water at the valve prevents leaks or flooding while you work on the faucet. Be sure all family members are aware the outdoor water is shut off to avoid accidental use.
Drain Remaining Water
After shutting off the water, open the outdoor faucet and allow any remaining water in the line to drain out completely. Let it drain into a bucket or onto a drain.
This empty line will make it much easier to complete your repair work.
Disassemble the Faucet
Now it’s time to take the faucet apart to access the interior seals and washers. The specific method will vary slightly depending on your faucet style:
For compression faucets:
- Use an adjustable wrench to loosen and unscrew the packing nut on the stem.
- Slide off the packing nut, steel packing, and brass seat to expose the rubber washer.
For ball-type faucets:
- Use an adjustable wrench to loosen the cam nut or bonnet nut that holds the faucet handle in place.
- Remove the faucet handle and unscrew the ball cap to access the rubber valve seats and springs.
For cartridge faucets:
- Remove the faucet handle by loosening the set screw with an allen wrench.
- Use a wrench to extract the cartridge retaining nut and pull out the cartridge.
Place all the small parts you remove in order on a towel to simplify reassembly later. Take photos if needed.
Replace Old Washers
Examine the rubber washers inside the faucet and check for wear or tears. A flattened or broken washer that no longer seals is the most common cause of drips and leaks.
Carefully pry out the old washer with needle-nose pliers and press the new replacement washer into place. Make sure to select the correctly sized washer.
You may also need to clear out any mineral deposits or corrosion while the faucet is disassembled. A small wire brush can help scrub away any built-up debris.
Reassemble Faucet
Once the new washers are installed, carefully reassemble the faucet by reversing the disassembly steps:
- Place washers, seats, packing nuts, and other parts back in the correct order.
- Hand tighten components before using wrenches for a final tightening.
- Replace the faucet handle and tighten down any set screws or nuts.
As you retighten parts, be careful not to overtighten, which could crack components or flatten the new washer.
Restore Water Supply
After successfully reassembling the outdoor faucet, you’re ready to turn the water supply back on.
Slowly turn on the shut-off valve and check closely for any drips or leaks as pressure returns to the line. Tighten any leaky connections if needed.
Test for Proper Function
The final step is testing your repair. Turn on the outdoor faucet and let the water run for a few minutes. The stream should run smoothly without any drips.
Turn the faucet on and off several times and visually inspect the connections for signs of water leaks. Also check below the faucet on the spout pipe. Your newly repaired outdoor faucet should now be leak-free!
Tips for Preventing Future Leaks
To maximize the life of your outdoor faucet and avoid frequent repairs, keep these maintenance tips in mind:
- In winter, drain and shut off indoor water lines to outdoor faucets to avoid freezing damage.
- Lubricate faucet stems and O-rings with non-petroleum grease annually.
- Consider replacing very old galvanized pipe with flexible UV-resistant tubing.
- Install insulated outdoor faucet covers in cold climates.
- Avoid letting hoses sit under pressure when not in use.
- Periodically clean the faucet exterior with mild soap and water.
With proper maintenance and occasional washer replacement, most standard outdoor faucets should provide years of reliable service. But once they do start to drip, fixing a leaky outdoor spigot is usually a straightforward DIY plumbing job.
Frequently Asked Questions About Fixing a Leaky Outdoor Faucet
What are the most common causes of an outdoor faucet leak?
The most common causes are worn out rubber washers, mineral deposits around valve seats, damage from freezing, and age-related corrosion.
What tools do I need to repair an outdoor faucet?
Basic tools like adjustable wrenches, needle-nose pliers, pipe tape, replacement washers, rags, a bucket, and a flashlight are generally all that’s needed.
How do I know if I need to replace washers or the entire faucet?
Try replacing just the washers first, which is inexpensive and straightforward. If the leak persists after replacing washers, then it’s likely time to replace the entire faucet.
Should I wrap the outdoor faucet with insulation in winter?
Yes, wrapping outdoor faucets helps prevent freezing damage. Faucet covers designed for winter insulation are available.
What should I do if water stops running from the outdoor faucet?
If no water comes out at all, the issue may be a stuck or closed valve, frozen pipe, or broken water line. Try opening valves fully and inspecting lines.
Conclusion
Repairing an old leaky outdoor faucet is usually a quick and easy fix. With the water turned off, take the faucet apart to replace worn washers, reassemble, and restore water flow. Test for leaks and make any needed adjustments. Some preventive care can also extend the lifespan of outdoor faucets. With the right techniques and a little DIY spirit, you can handle this common plumbing repair job yourself.