How to Fix a Leaky Outdoor Faucet

A leaky outdoor faucet, also known as a hose bibb, can waste hundreds of gallons of water and even cause foundation or siding issues over time. Luckily, you don’t always need to replace the entire unit to stop a drip—many fixes are straightforward. Addressing this maintenance task early can save you money and prevent bigger headaches later on. Whether you notice a steady drip or a sudden gush, handling it now ensures your home stands up to every season. Handydads is here to guide you through an effective outdoor faucet repair.

Project Snapshot

This project involves repairing an outdoor faucet that leaks when the water is turned off. It’s a moderate DIY fix, usually completed in under an hour. Most drips are caused by worn washers or packing nuts, so you'll address those to restore a tight seal. No advanced plumbing knowledge is required, making this a great place to start for novice handy homeowners. If water leaks indoors too, call a pro as it may be a bigger issue.

Tools and Materials

You’ll need an adjustable wrench, flathead and Phillips screwdrivers, plumber’s tape, packing washers (the size is usually standard but check yours), and a replacement rubber washer for the faucet. Having a rag and a bucket on hand helps to avoid messes. Gloves and safety goggles are optional but recommended. If you find corrosion on the valve seat, a valve seat wrench or seat grinding tool may be useful. All supplies can be found at your hardware store.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Start by shutting off the water supply to the outdoor faucet to avoid any sprays or accidents. Unscrew and remove the handle by taking out the retaining screw. Carefully twist off the packing nut with your wrench and pull out the stem. Inspect and replace the rubber washer at the end of the stem if it's worn or brittle, and if you spot water leaking around the stem, replace or tighten the packing nut, adding plumber’s tape as needed for a snug fit. Reassemble the parts, turn the water back on, and test for leaks—pat yourself on the back if the drip is gone.

From the Toolbox

A client once called Handydads in a panic about an outdoor faucet running nonstop after their first gardening day of spring. Their DIY attempt involved excessive tightening, which cracked the washer and stripped the packing nut. Thankfully, the right replacement parts and a gentle hand restored the faucet better than new. The relief on their face when the drip stopped was priceless. It just goes to show a simple fix goes smoother with patience and the right know-how.

Top 5 Mistakes

Overtightening the packing nut can strip threads and cause irreparable damage. Skipping the step to shut off the water often results in a soggy mess. Choosing the wrong washer size leads to persistent drips. Forgetting to use plumber’s tape can allow leaks around the stem. Reassembling without checking all parts for cracks means you'll likely be back fixing again soon.

Tool and Material Recommendations

Invest in a quality adjustable wrench for a firm, controlled grip. Always buy a faucet washer assortment kit, so you have multiple sizes on hand—handy for more than one repair. Plumber’s tape is a must-have in your toolbox for sealing threaded parts. Opt for brass replacement packing nuts over plastic for better longevity. Affordable bucket organizers help keep your faucet repair essentials together for next time.

Quick Tips and Hacks

Try covering the outdoor spigot area with a thick towel before removing tight parts to prevent scratches if your wrench slips. Lubricate threads lightly with plumber’s grease for easier disassembly next time. Snap a photo of your faucet before you take it apart to remember the assembly order. Keep spare washers in a labeled container in your workshop. If your faucet keeps leaking despite a washer swap, the valve seat may need cleaning with a seat wrench.

Need a Hand?

Don’t let a little drip become a big problem. Whether it’s a quick fix or a stubborn leak, Handydads is ready to help you with all your plumbing needs and outdoor repairs. Contact Handydads today to schedule prompt, professional handyman service for your home.