Even though the spigot leak is outside, it’s crucial to fix because it can eventually waste a ton of water and damage the foundation of your house. Whether the spigot is leaking when the water is turned on or off, fixing the problem turns out to be pretty simple.
First, try tightening the packing nut slightly behind the handle. If that doesn’t stop the leak, you may need to replace the packing gasket. To do this, turn off the water by closing the valve inside the house or the main water valve. Then buy a packing gasket that matches your brand and replace the old one with it.
If the spigot continues to leak, the washer on the valve stem needs to be removed and replaced. Here are 11 quick steps provided by Today’s Homeowner to install a new washer:
Turn the water off at the water meter using a cut-off key.
Unscrew the packing nut beneath the handle of the facet.
Grasp the faucet handle, and pull the valve stem out of the hose bibb.
Remove the screw on the valve stem holding the faucet washer.
Replace the washer with one of the same size and thickness.
Push the valve stem back into the hose bibb housing.
Tighten the packing nut on the hose bibb until snug.
Use the cut-off key to turn the water back on at the meter.
Turn the spigot back on to remove any air from the line.
Check for leaks around the packing nut on the valve stem.
Turn the faucet off and check the spigot for leaks.
Before you start the process, make sure you have the following items: cut-off key, wrench, new washer of the same size and thickness, and adjustable pliers. In addition, SFGate recommends having spray lubricant just in case the packing nut under the handle of the spigot won’t turn.
You’ve tried adding a new gasket and washer, but the faucet starts leaking again shortly after you’ve fixed it. What then? Turns out, the valve seat is likely worn, so you’ll have to replace the actual faucet.
For a faucet attached with threads, The Family Handyman suggests you “turn off the water, unscrew the faucet, and replace it with one that’s the same length.” For a faucet that’s been soldered on, you’ll have to find some soldering tools and a torch.
We wanted to cover every solution for fixing an outside spigot leak so you can be prepared for the seasons changing and any plumbing problems that may occur. If you need any assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out to us for help!