Symptoms
- Water drips from the spout even when off
- Water leaks around the handle when the faucet is running
- Leak appears at the wall where the pipe enters
Likely causes
- CommonWorn rubber washer inside the valveThe washer seals the water flow and wears out with age and use.
- CommonLoose or worn packing nut behind the handleThis nut compresses a seal around the valve stem and can loosen over time.
- PossibleCracked pipe from a prior freezeWater left in the line over winter can freeze, crack the pipe, and leak once thawed.
- Less commonCorroded or damaged spigot bodyOlder brass fixtures can corrode internally after many years.
What to do
- Shut off the water supply to that hose bib if there's an interior shutoff valve, or the main water supply if not.
- If leaking around the handle while running, try tightening the packing nut behind the handle slightly with a wrench.
- For a persistent drip from the spout, disassemble the faucet, note the washer at the end of the stem, and replace it with a matching size.
- Reassemble the faucet and turn the water back on slowly to check for leaks.
- If the leak is at the wall or seems to be from inside the wall, this may indicate a cracked pipe from freezing and needs further investigation.
- Consider installing a frost-free hose bib if the current one froze and cracked, especially in colder climates.
Tools and parts
- Adjustable wrench
- Screwdriver
- Replacement washer kit
Faucet washer repair kitSearch: “outdoor spigot washer repair kit”
Frost-free hose bibSearch: “frost free outdoor faucet hose bib”
When to call a pro
If the leak traces back inside the wall or the pipe itself is cracked, a plumber should assess and repair the interior plumbing.
Safety
Generally low risk
Generally low risk for a careful person. Stop if anything looks different from what this guide describes.