Outdoor faucets, also known as hose bibs or sillcocks, are water spigots located on the exterior of homes and buildings. They provide a convenient water source for gardening, washing cars, filling pools, and various other outdoor tasks. However, these fixtures are vulnerable to leaks, especially during freezing weather when water inside the faucet can expand and cause pipes and washers to burst. Outdoor faucet leaks can range from small drips to significant gushers, resulting in wasted water and potential water damage if left unaddressed.
This comprehensive guide will examine the common causes of outdoor faucet leaks, troubleshooting tips for identifying the source, and steps DIY homeowners can take to stop leaks in hose bibs that continue flowing when turned off. Learning to recognize and fix this irritating plumbing problem can help prevent damages and conserve water year-round.
What Causes Outdoor Faucet Leaks When Turned Off?
Several factors can lead to outdoor spigots leaking water after being shut off, including:
Frozen Pipes and Damaged Plumbing
In colder climates, a common cause of leaks is frozen water inside the faucet and connected pipes. When water freezes it expands, putting pressure on pipes and joints. This can damage washers, O-rings, pipe fittings, and other internal faucet components. Once thawed, these parts may leak as seals are broken. Freezing temperatures that fluctuate above and below 32°F are most problematic.
Worn Out Rubber Washers
The rubber washers inside faucet valves that help create a watertight seal when the faucet is closed wear out over time. Cracked, torn, or misshapen washers prevent faucets from fully shutting off, allowing water to seep through. Outdoor faucets and their washers endure more extremes than indoor fixtures, shortening their lifespan.
Mineral Buildup and Corrosion
Mineral deposits from hard water, rust, and corrosion can accumulate inside faucet bodies and valves, preventing proper sealing and seating when turned off. This is common with older fixtures.
Loose or Damaged Stem Packing
Stem packing rings around the faucet stem prevent water from leaking out around valve handles. If these packing nuts become loose or break down, water can drip from the spigot neck even when shut off.
Improper Installation Issues
Incorrect positioning or installation of outdoor faucets can distort valve seating, warp washers, and lead to leaks over time as components weaken and fail. Using the wrong type of hose bib in certain climates or incorrect installation for the wall type can also set up fixtures for eventual leakage.
Troubleshooting Outdoor Faucet Leaks
Pinpointing the exact cause of an outdoor spigot leak is helpful for knowing whether to repair, replace parts, or call a plumber. Try these troubleshooting tips:
Inspect the Faucet Exterior
Examine the entire faucet exterior for drips or water stains to identify the source. Leaks may originate at hose connections, around the stem and handle, or from the spigot end. This can indicate issues like worn washers, bad seals, or damaged plumbing. Also check for loose fitting, unusual corrosion, or mineral buildup.
Turn the Water On and Off
Turn the faucet on and off to observe where drips or seepage occur. Water leaking from the spigot end when the valve is shut off points to internal seals/washers not closing properly. Leaks around the handle suggest poor stem packing. Take note of any irregular handle sticking, pressure loss, or odd noises too.
Remove the Faucet Handle
Removing the handle and any decorative caps allows you to inspect internal stem seals, washers, screw fasteners, and casing for wear, mineral deposits, or damage. Avoid completely removing valves. Have a photo to help with proper handle reassembly later.
Check Connections and Shutoff Valves
Inspect all connections behind the faucet and at in-line shutoff valves for tightness and signs of leakage. Loose fittings that leak when pressurized can cause what seems like a shut-off valve leak.
Consider Plumbing Conditions
Take note of any other plumbing issues, like frozen nearby pipes, recurring clogs, low water pressure, or signs of corrosion in pipes. These conditions can contribute to or exacerbate valve and washer leaks over time.
Test Indoors vs. Outdoors
Compare whether the leak persists all the time or only when the outside faucet is used for a period. Some valve/washer leaks only happen under temperature or pressure conditions unique to outdoor water use.
Fixing a Leaky Outdoor Faucet Yourself
Many faucet leaks stemming from worn washers, O-rings, stem packing, and mineral buildup can be fixed DIY with basic tools and replacement parts. Here are solutions to try based on different leak causes:
Replace Faucet Washers
If washing the faucet valves and handles does not stop drips, replacing the rubber valve seat washer is likely needed. Follow these DIY steps:
- Turn off the water and relieve pressure.
- Remove any decorative handles and caps.
- Use an adjustable wrench or valve wrench to remove the valve stem.
- Pry out the worn washer and replace it with a matching new one.
- Clean valve seats of debris and reassemble by reversing steps.
Change Stem Packing Rings
For leaks around valve stems:
- Unscrew the packing nut and remove old packing string/rings.
- Replace with new packing ensuring proper thickness and tightness.
- Tighten the packing nut carefully to avoid stripping.
Update Worn Out O-Rings
Similar to washers, inspect and replace any cracked or damaged O-rings throughout the faucet to stop leaks at joints. Use silicone-based grease on new O-rings for smoother operation.
Clean Out Mineral Deposits
For slow drips from mineral buildup:
- Disassemble faucet valves and handles as above.
- Scrub away scale deposits with a toothbrush and white vinegar.
- Rinse thoroughly before reassembling components.
Tighten Connections
If the leak originates at fittings behind or connecting to the faucet, drain any hoses and use pliers or a wrench to tighten pipes, valve angle stops, and threaded connections. Add thread seal tape to reseal threads.
Insulate Vulnerable Pipes
For outside faucets prone to freezing, encase vulnerable pipes and valves in insulating foam covers. Draining water lines before winter also helps prevent freeze damage and leaks.
Install Heat Tape
Applying electric heat tape to exterior pipes and wrapping them in insulating covers keeps them safely above freezing. Consult codes for proper outdoor electrical setup.
Replacing a Leaking Outdoor Faucet
For unfixable leaks due to age or extensive damage, replacing the entire outdoor faucet may be required. Here are some tips for this project:
Choose the Right Faucet
Select a new frost-proof, anti-siphon faucet made for outdoor use in your climate. Consult local code requirements too. Install any supply line extensions needed.
Shut Off Water Supply Lines
Locate shutoff valves for indoor and outdoor water lines and turn water supply off before beginning removal. Open outdoor faucet to relieve pressure. Disconnect any drainage lines.
Remove Old Faucet
Take apart any handle caps, escutcheons, and valves before the main faucet body. Unscrew mounting bolts and clean away any putty or caulk remnants on the exterior wall.
Set Up New Faucet
Follow manufacturer instructions for proper installation and adjustments of valves, backflow prevention devices, and handles on the replacement faucet.
Make Water-Tight Seal
Seal around new faucet with exterior silicone caulk. If tolerances are loose, use shims, washers or insulation to take up extra space before caulking.
Reconnect Supply Lines
Reattach any extended supply lines to the new faucet using proper fittings. Check for secure connections before restoring water. Test for leaks.
Preventing Outdoor Faucet Leaks
A bit of regular maintenance helps avoid leaks and damage to exterior hose bibs in the future:
- Inspect washers, O-rings, and valve seats annually before winter and replace as needed.
- Lubricate valve stems with grease and tighten packing nuts to maintain watertight seal.
- Drain hoses and shut off indoor supply valves before freezing temps hit.
- Insulate vulnerable water lines or install frost-free faucets rated for your climate.
- Avoid letting hoses pressurize faucets needlessly. Use shutoff nozzles.
- Replace any faucet over 10-15 years old. Don’t wait for leaks to appear.
- Ensure faucets are set in exterior walls deep enough to avoid freezing.
- Shut off and drain waterlines to outdoor faucets before vacationing away during winter.
When to Call a Professional Plumber
While many basic faucet leaks are DIY fixable, there are some scenarios where a professional plumber is the best solution:
- Leaks requiring faucet or pipe replacement in finished walls.
- Unknown cause of leak or source is inaccessible.
- Extensive corrosion, mineral deposits, or water damage.
- Faucet issues coincide with other major plumbing problems.
- Leak worsens despite attempted repairs.
- Lack proper tools, skills, or ability for the required repairs.
A licensed plumber has specialized expertise to correctly diagnose, repair, and replace faulty outdoor faucets. They can also determine if any larger issues are contributing to the leakage.
FAQs About Outdoor Faucet Leaks
What if water continues dripping after I replaced the washer?
- Try adjusting the washer placement, cleaning valve seats of debris, or replacing the seat washer as well. Persistent drips after a washer replacement indicate an additional issue.
My outdoor faucet leaks from the handle connection. What should I do?
- Loose stem packing nuts or damaged packing rings around the stem often cause this leak. Tightening the nut slightly or replacing old packing material should fix it.
Can I use pipe insulation to prevent my outside faucet pipes from freezing and leaking?
- Yes, flexible foam tubing insulation is easy to install and provides good freeze prevention for those vulnerable water supply lines. Ensure no gaps or discontinuations in coverage.
Why does my outdoor faucet drip more when the hose is attached?
- The additional pressure from an attached hose or active water use can worsen existing leaks. This helps narrow down the source as being internal seals or washers within the faucet body itself.
My leaky outdoor faucet has corroded too much. Can I just seal it shut?
- No, sealing a constantly leaking faucet closed will likely lead to bigger pipe problems later. Replacement is the best option for excessively corroded outdoor spigots.
Key Takeaways on Fixing Outdoor Faucet Leaks When Turned Off
- Faucet leaks that persist when turned off are usually caused by worn washers, O-rings, frozen pipes, or mineral deposits.
- Inspecting the faucet and valves first helps troubleshoot the specific cause before attempting repairs.
- Simple fixes involve replacing washers, O-rings, stem packing, and clearing mineral buildup.
- For damaged or corroded fixtures, full faucet replacement may be necessary.
- Prevention involves maintenance like lubricating valves, insulating pipes, and replacing aged faucets.
- Plumbers can best handle complex diagnosis and repairs or issues inside finished walls.
Conclusion
Dealing with outdoor faucet leaks quickly saves water, prevents property damage, and avoids frozen pipe disasters. In many cases, DIY-ers can troubleshoot the source of the leak and make simple repairs to washers, O-rings, and valve parts. For more complex faucet issues or replacements, consulting a professional plumber is recommended. With some regular preventative maintenance and cold weather preparation, homeowners can nip outdoor spigot leaks in the bud and keep their plumbing flowing smoothly all year long.