Outdoor faucets, also known as hose bibs or sillcocks, are prone to leaks over time. However, a leaking outdoor faucet can usually be repaired with some basic tools and plumbing knowledge. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to stop an outdoor faucet from leaking.
Identify the Type of Outdoor Faucet
The first step is to identify whether you have a frost-free or non-frost-free outdoor faucet.
Frost-Free Faucets
Frost-free faucets have an extended shaft that allows water to drain out of the faucet body to prevent freezing in winter. They can be identified by a long spout about 8-12 inches behind the faucet handle.
Non-Frost-Free Faucets
Non-frost-free faucets do not have an extended spout and simply protrude from the exterior wall. These require winterization to avoid freezing.
Identifying the faucet type will determine the repair procedure.
Locate the Shutoff Valve
Before beginning repairs, locate the shutoff valve inside the house and turn off the water supply to the outdoor faucet. This is usually an angle stop valve near the water line leading outside.
Turning off the water prevents leaks while working on the faucet.
Inspect for Leak Points
With the water off, check the outdoor faucet for leak points. Leaks usually occur at the stem around the faucet handle, the spout connection, or at the vacuum breaker.
- Stem leaks – Dripping occurs around the faucet handle when turned on. This indicates worn washers/seats that need replacement.
- Spout leaks – Water drips at the spout connection to the faucet body. The spout o-ring likely needs replacement.
- Vacuum breaker leaks – Water drips near the top of the faucet body. The vacuum breaker needs servicing or replacement.
Identifying the leak point will direct the repair procedure.
Repairing a Leaking Stem
Stem leaks around the faucet handle are most common. To fix:
- Remove the faucet handle using an adjustable wrench or Allen key on the screw holding it in place.
- Unscrew the stem retaining nut around the cartridge shaft using an adjustable wrench.
- Pull out the cartridge stem assembly and inspect the rubber washers/seats. Replace if worn.
- Lubricate the washers with plumber’s grease and reinsert the cartridge.
- Secure the retaining nut and reattach the faucet handle.
Replacing worn rubber washers restores a watertight seal to stop leaks at the stem.
Fixing a Leaking Spout
For a leaking spout connection:
- Unscrew the spout retaining nut using adjustable pliers or a basin wrench.
- Pull out the spout and check the condition of the spout o-ring. Replace if worn.
- Apply plumber’s tape to the faucet threads and reinstall the spout with the o-ring.
- Tighten the retaining nut to create a watertight seal.
Replacing the o-ring provides a tight seal between the spout and faucet body to fix drips.
Repairing Leaks at the Vacuum Breaker
For vacuum breaker leaks:
- Unscrew the top vacuum breaker unit using adjustable pliers or a pipe wrench.
- Inspect the o-rings and seats inside the vacuum breaker assembly. Replace any worn parts.
- Apply plumber’s tape to the threads and reinstall the vacuum breaker.
- Restore water supply and check for leaks.
Servicing the vacuum breaker seals and o-rings prevents water from leaking out the top of the faucet body.
Restore Water Supply and Confirm Repair
Once repairs are complete:
- Turn the water supply back on slowly using the shutoff valve.
- Check for any leaks at the faucet joints or spout. Tighten as needed.
- Operate the faucet handle to flush out any debris.
- Let the outdoor faucet run for a few minutes to confirm no more dripping or leaking occurs.
- Winterize as necessary to avoid freezing damage.
With the proper parts replaced, outdoor faucet leaks can be fixed to restore proper operation. Contact a plumber for stubborn leaks requiring faucet replacement.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most common causes of an outdoor faucet leak?
The most common causes are worn out rubber washers and o-rings in the faucet that need replacement, hard water mineral buildup, frozen water damage, and loose connections.
What if the leak is inside the house around the water line?
Indoor leaks likely indicate issues with the shutoff valve or connection points along the supply line. Consult a plumber to inspect and repair indoor faucet leaks.
Is it OK to use plumber’s tape on all faucet joints?
Yes, applying plumber’s tape to the joints creates a tighter seal and prevents leaks. Use high-quality Teflon tape and wrap clockwise 3-4 times when installing faucet parts.
How can I prevent outdoor faucet leaks in the future?
Preventive measures include replacing washers/o-rings regularly before they wear out, insulating outdoor faucets in winter, using a faucet cover, and maintaining a regular leak check schedule.
How much does it cost to repair an outdoor faucet leak?
The average cost for DIY faucet leak repairs is $10-$30 for parts like o-rings and washers. Plumber repairs cost $150-$350 per hour, depending on time and parts needed.
Conclusion
Fixing an outdoor faucet leak is usually an easy DIY repair. After identifying the leak point, replacing worn washers, o-rings, or vacuum breaker parts stops the dripping. Make sure to shut off water supply, inspect, replace worn parts, reassemble joints, and test operation after the repair. A bit of regular maintenance and winterization goes a long way towards preventing outdoor faucet leaks down the road. Calling a professional plumber is recommended for major faucet repairs or full replacements. With the right knowledge of outdoor faucet components, leaks can be diagnosed and repaired to restore smooth operation.