How to Repair a Leaky Outdoor Hose Bib

Dripping hose bibs are more than just a waste of water; they are a constant drain on your utility bill and a silent contributor to exterior rot. A small, persistent drip often suggests that the internal seat washer has hardened or cracked, losing its ability to create a watertight seal against the valve seat. Left untreated, the mineral deposits from the water will eventually pit the valve seat, making a simple washer replacement much more complicated. Fixing this is a classic Saturday morning repair that requires nothing more than a few basic hand tools and a couple of dollars in parts. Done well, the handle will turn smoothly without any resistance, and the water will stop completely the moment you close the valve. We are going to replace the stem washer and the packing nut seal to ensure the unit operates like it came fresh from the box.

  1. Stop the Water Flow. Locate the interior shut-off valve that supplies the exterior hose bib and close it completely. Open the outdoor bib fully to drain the remaining water in the line and relieve any internal pressure.
  2. Free the Handle. Use a screwdriver to remove the screw holding the handle in place, then pull the handle off the stem. If the handle is stuck due to corrosion, tap it lightly with a hammer or use a penetrating oil to loosen it.
  3. Extract the Stem. Using an adjustable wrench, unscrew the packing nut located directly behind the handle assembly. Once loose, pull the entire valve stem out of the faucet body by turning it counter-clockwise.
  4. Swap the Washer. At the end of the stem, you will find a small screw holding a rubber washer in place. Remove the screw, pop off the old, worn washer, and install an identical new one.
  5. Renew the Seal. Remove the old packing string or rubber O-ring located under the packing nut on the stem. Wrap new packing string or install a new O-ring to ensure the handle does not leak while in use.
  6. Confirm the Fix. Slide the stem back into the faucet body and tighten the packing nut until snug. Replace the handle and screw, then slowly turn the interior water supply back on to check for leaks.