Outdoor Faucet Leaking: Causes & How to Fix
An outdoor faucet leak is usually caused by a worn washer, corroded valve seat, or loose packing nut—all cheap and quick fixes. Most replacement parts cost between $5 and $20 at any hardware store. You can stop the drip yourself with just an adjustable wrench and a screwdriver, no special plumbing skills needed.
Step-by-Step Fix
- 1
Turn off the water supply
Locate the shut-off valve for your outdoor faucet, typically found inside near an exterior wall or in the basement. Turn it clockwise until it stops, then open the faucet outside to release any remaining pressure. This prevents water from spraying while you work.
- 2
Remove the handle and packing nut
Use an adjustable wrench to unscrew the large nut (packing nut) at the base of the faucet handle, turning counterclockwise. Once loose, carefully pull the handle stem straight out. If the handle is stuck, wrap a cloth around the nut for better grip and apply steady pressure.
- 3
Inspect and replace the washer
Look at the rubber washer on the bottom of the stem—if it's cracked, flattened, or discolored, it needs replacement. Unscrew the small brass screw holding the washer in place, remove the old washer, and install an identical new one from your hardware store. Tighten the screw firmly but do not overtighten.
- 4
Clean the valve seat
Check the valve seat inside the faucet body for mineral deposits or corrosion—a white or green crusty buildup. Scrub it gently with a wet cloth or an old toothbrush to remove deposits. If it's deeply pitted or damaged, you may need to replace the entire valve seat cartridge.
- 5
Reassemble and test
Slide the stem back into the faucet, then hand-tighten the packing nut before using the wrench for a final snug turn. Turn the water supply back on and test the faucet for leaks. If water still drips, tighten the packing nut one more quarter turn.
⚠️ Safety Notes
- Turn off the water supply before starting work to avoid flooding and injury from unexpected spraying.
- Do not overtighten the packing nut or handle stem—this can crack plastic components and cause leaks elsewhere.
- If the valve seat is cracked or severely damaged, replacing just the washer will not stop the leak; the entire cartridge must be replaced.
When to Call a Pro
Call a plumber if the valve seat is heavily corroded or pitted, if the faucet still leaks after replacing the washer and cleaning the seat, or if you cannot remove the stem without risk of breaking it.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Why is my outdoor faucet dripping?
- Outdoor faucets leak most often because the rubber washer has worn out or the valve seat is corroded. Both are inexpensive fixes that take under an hour with basic tools.
- How much does it cost to fix a leaking outdoor faucet?
- Replacement washers cost $2 to $5, and a new valve seat cartridge costs $10 to $20. Professional plumber service typically costs $150 to $300, so DIY repair saves money.
- Can I fix a leaking outdoor faucet myself?
- Yes, if the leak is from a worn washer or corroded valve seat, you can fix it yourself with an adjustable wrench and screwdriver. The job takes 20 to 45 minutes and requires no special plumbing experience.
- Do I need to turn off the water to fix an outdoor faucet?
- Yes, always turn off the water supply before disassembling the faucet to prevent spraying and flooding. Look for a shut-off valve inside near an exterior wall or in the basement.
- What if tightening the packing nut doesn't stop the leak?
- If tightening does not work, the washer or valve seat is likely damaged and must be replaced. Remove the stem and inspect both parts; order replacement parts from any hardware store if needed.
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