An outdoor water spigot, also known as an outdoor faucet or hose bib, allows you to access water outside your home for tasks like gardening, washing cars, filling pools, etc. Over time, outdoor spigots can develop leaks, become clogged, or stop working properly due to mineral buildup and wear and tear. Fixing an outdoor spigot is usually a straightforward DIY project that can save you the cost of hiring a plumber. Here we will walk through the steps needed to diagnose and repair common outdoor spigot problems.
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Tools and Materials Needed
Before getting started, make sure you have the necessary tools and materials:
– Adjustable wrenches
– Pipe wrench
– Screwdriver
– Replacement washers and o-rings
– Teflon tape
– Rag
– Bucket
– Flashlight
– Replacement spigot (if needed)
Turn Off Water Supply
The first step is to locate the shutoff valve for the outdoor spigot and turn off the water supply. This is usually an interior valve located near where the water line exits your home. Turning off the water ensures no water is flowing while you work on the spigot.
Inspect for Leaks
With the water off, inspect the spigot for any leaks or dripping water. Leaks most often occur at the stem/handle area, where the spigot attaches to the pipe, or at fittings like elbows and tees. Look for moist areas, lime and calcium deposits, or visible water dripping.
Diagnose the Problem
If you find a leak, determine what is causing it based on the leak location:
Stem/Handle Dripping
– Worn washers need replacement
– Packing nut needs tightening
Connection to Pipe Leaking
– Joint needs new pipe tape
– Loose connection needs tightened
Fittings Leaking
– Worn o-rings need replacement
– Loose fittings need tightened
Pinpointing the source of the leak will determine the repair needed.
Replace Washers
If the spigot leaks around the stem when the water is turned on, the cause is likely worn out washers. Replacing the washers is a quick and easy fix:
1. Turn off water supply and relieve pressure by opening spigot.
2. Remove the handle and stem.
3. Unscrew the packing nut and remove old washers.
4. Replace with new rubber washers.
5. Reassemble the parts in reverse order.
This will stop leaks coming from the stem area.
Tighten Packing Nut
If the spigot leaks slightly even when turned off, the packing nut likely needs tightened. The packing nut compresses the washers to keep water from leaking out around the stem.
Use an adjustable wrench to give the packing nut 1/4 turn clockwise. This will compress the washer tighter without overtightening. Test to see if the leak stops. You may need to tighten slightly more.
Re-tape the Pipe Connection
If the leak is coming from where the spigot attaches to the pipe, the connection likely needs new pipe thread sealant tape:
1. Disconnect the spigot from the pipe using wrenches to unthread.
2. Clean old tape and grime from the threads.
3. Wrap new Teflon tape around the pipe threads in the direction of the threads.
4. Reattach the spigot and tighten with wrenches.
The Teflon tape will fill gaps in the threads and prevent leaks.
Tighten Fittings
For leaks at elbows, tees, and other fittings, try tightening the fittings first. Use pipe wrenches to tighten fittings an additional 1/4 to 1/2 turn. This may compress the connection enough to stop dripping.
If tightening doesn’t work, the fitting washers likely need replacement. Disassemble the fittings, remove old washers, replace with new, and reassemble.
Replace Spigot
If the leaks cannot be stopped or the spigot has additional issues like not turning on properly, not shutting off, or broken parts, replacement of the entire spigot may be necessary. Here are the steps:
1. Turn off water and disconnect pipes.
2. Unscrew mounting hardware and remove old spigot.
3. Clean mounting surface of any old plumber’s putty.
4. Apply new putty and seat new spigot.
5. Reconnect pipes with Teflon tape.
6. Turn on water and check for leaks.
Replacing a damaged spigot with a new one can quickly solve stubborn issues.
Unclog Spigot
If your spigot has reduced water flow, the cause is likely a clogged aerator screen:
1. Unscrew and remove the spigot head/aerator.
2. Use a small brush or toothpick to gently clear any grit, mineral deposits, or debris clogging the screen.
3. Rinse pieces under running water.
4. Reassemble spigot.
Unclogging the aerator will restore full water flow.
Prevent Mineral Buildup
To prevent mineral deposits and corrosion inside the spigot:
– Drain spigots and hoses before winter if in a cold climate. Freezing water can damage pipes.
– Install frost-proof spigots if dealing with winter freezing. These types drain water back into the pipes to prevent freezing.
– Install in-line water filters if dealing with heavy mineral deposits from well water. Filters remove minerals and sediment.
– Consider a full home water softener system to reduce mineral buildup.
Taking steps to control minerals and avoid freezing will extend the life of outdoor spigots.
Conclusion
Fixing an outdoor water spigot is usually an easy DIY job. With the proper tools and supplies, you can replace washers, tighten fittings, unclog mineral buildup, or replace the entire spigot in just a little time. Paying attention to leaks and drips right away can help prevent worse damage down the road. And taking preventative measures against freezing and minerals can keep your outdoor spigots working properly for years to come.