How to Fix a Leaky Outdoor Faucet

Faucets endure more abuse than almost any other fixture in your home. Sitting exposed to the elements, they face constant thermal expansion and contraction, which eventually compromises the internal rubber seals. A steady drip isn't just an annoyance; it is a waste of water and a potential sign that the valve seat is beginning to pit or corrode. Repairing a hose bibb is a straightforward mechanical process. By isolating the water supply and replacing the internal washer, you can usually restore a watertight seal in under an hour. When done well, the handle will turn smoothly, and the silence of a properly closed valve will be your reward.

1. Kill the Flow First. Locate the interior shut-off valve for your outdoor faucet, usually found in the basement or crawlspace near the exterior wall. Turn it clockwise to shut off the flow, then open the outdoor faucet completely to drain remaining pressure.
2. Expose the Nut. Use a screwdriver to remove the center screw holding the handle in place. Pull the handle off the stem, revealing the packing nut underneath.
3. Extract the Stem. Use an adjustable wrench to loosen the packing nut by turning it counter-clockwise. Once loose, unscrew it by hand and slide the valve stem assembly straight out of the faucet body.
4. Swap the Washer. Locate the rubber washer at the very end of the stem, held in place by a small brass screw. Remove the screw, pull off the old, flattened washer, and install a new matching one of the same diameter and thickness.
5. Replace Packing Too. Look at the packing washer located just under the nut you removed earlier. If it is brittle or cracked, pick it off and slide a fresh one onto the stem assembly.
6. Test for Tight Seals. Slide the stem back into the faucet, tighten the packing nut firmly, and reattach the handle. Turn the water supply back on slowly and check for leaks while operating the handle.