How to Fix a Leaking Outdoor Spigot

Sillcocks, or outdoor spigots, endure the worst of the elements and often bear the brunt of temperature swings, which eventually compromises their internal seals. That persistent drip isn't just wasting water; it is a signal that the internal rubber components have hardened or cracked, allowing pressure to escape whenever the valve is closed. Fixing this is a standard maintenance task that keeps your home's exterior plumbing efficient and prevents potential water damage to the wall assembly behind the tap. When done well, the handle operates smoothly with zero leakage, and you avoid the unnecessary expense of replacing the entire valve unit. You only need a few basic tools and a trip to the hardware store to get it tightened up.

Kill the Water Supply. Locate the interior shut-off valve that controls the supply line to the outdoor spigot and turn it clockwise until it stops. Open the outdoor spigot fully to drain any remaining water from the line.
Unscrew the Stem. Use an adjustable wrench to loosen the packing nut, which is the hexagonal nut located just behind the handle. Once loosened, unscrew the nut completely and pull the stem assembly out of the spigot body.
Find the Culprit. Identify the flat rubber washer at the very end of the valve stem and the small packing washer inside the nut. If they appear brittle, flattened, or cracked, they are the source of your leak.
Swap in Fresh Seals. Unscrew the small brass screw holding the main washer in place at the tip of the stem and install a new, identical washer. If the packing washer under the nut is worn, slide it off and replace it with a new one.
Put It Back Together. Slide the stem assembly back into the spigot body and tighten the packing nut back down using your wrench. Do not overtighten, as this can crush the new washer.
Verify Zero Leaks. Close the spigot handle and slowly turn the interior shut-off valve back on. Check the spigot for any signs of dripping or seepage around the handle nut.