A leaking outdoor faucet may seem like a small problem, but over time it can waste hundreds of gallons of water and even cause damage to your home’s foundation. Also called a hose bib or spigot, your outdoor faucet is exposed to the elements year-round, making it more vulnerable to wear, rust, and freeze damage. The good news is that most leaks can be fixed quickly and affordably — sometimes in under 30 minutes.

This guide covers everything you need to know about outdoor faucet leaks: why they happen, how to fix them step-by-step, when to call a plumber, and how to prevent future issues.

Common Causes of an Outdoor Faucet Leak

Outdoor faucet leaks can happen for several reasons, and knowing the root cause will help you choose the right fix. Here are the most common culprits:

  • Worn Washer or O-Ring: The rubber parts inside the faucet wear out over time, leading to drips.
  • Loose Packing Nut: This small nut behind the handle can loosen, allowing water to escape.
  • Damaged Stem or Valve Seat: Corrosion or mineral deposits can prevent the faucet from sealing fully.
  • Cracked Faucet Housing: Freezing temperatures can cause metal to split, leading to major leaks.
  • Loose or Damaged Hose Connection: Sometimes the leak isn’t in the faucet but in the attached garden hose.

By inspecting each of these areas, you can quickly pinpoint the cause of your leak.

Why a Leaking Outdoor Faucet is a Big Deal

It’s easy to ignore a small drip outside, but the consequences can be surprisingly costly and damaging. Here’s why you should fix it right away:

  • Water Waste: A slow drip can waste over 2,000 gallons of water per year.
  • Foundation Damage: Water pooling near your house can seep into the foundation and cause cracks.
  • Higher Utility Bills: That wasted water shows up on your water bill.
  • Mold & Mildew: Damp areas near your home can encourage mold growth.
  • Pest Attraction: Standing water attracts mosquitoes and other pests.

Fixing the leak promptly protects your home, your wallet, and the environment.

Step-by-Step: How to Fix a Leaking Outdoor Faucet

Most outdoor faucet leaks can be repaired with basic tools, even if you’re not a plumbing expert. The key is to work slowly, follow each step carefully, and keep safety in mind. Here’s a detailed guide:

Tools & Materials You’ll Need

Gather your tools before starting so you don’t have to stop midway through:

  • Adjustable Wrench: For loosening nuts without damaging them.
  • Screwdriver (Flathead or Phillips): To remove handle screws.
  • Replacement Washer or O-Ring: These are the most common causes of leaks.
  • Plumber’s Tape (Teflon Tape): Creates a watertight seal on threaded connections.
  • Bucket or Towel: Catches any remaining water and prevents a mess.
  • Penetrating Oil: Useful if parts are corroded or stuck.

Step 1: Turn Off the Water Supply

Locate the shutoff valve for your outdoor faucet. It’s usually inside your basement, crawlspace, or near your main water line. Turn it clockwise until it’s completely closed. This step is crucial — skipping it can result in a flooded work area.

Step 2: Drain Remaining Water

Turn the outdoor faucet handle and let any leftover water flow out until it stops. This reduces pressure inside the pipe and makes disassembly safer.

Step 3: Remove the Handle

Use the appropriate screwdriver to remove the handle screw. If the handle is stuck from corrosion, apply a little penetrating oil and gently wiggle it free rather than forcing it, which could break the handle.

Step 4: Loosen the Packing Nut

Place the adjustable wrench over the packing nut (located directly behind the handle) and carefully turn it counterclockwise. Once loose, pull the stem assembly straight out. Take care not to scratch or bend the stem, as this could create new leaks.

Step 5: Inspect & Replace Parts

Examine the stem assembly carefully:

  • Check the Washer or O-Ring: If it’s cracked, flattened, or worn, replace it.
  • Look at the Valve Seat: Shine a flashlight into the faucet body. If the valve seat is rough or corroded, it may need to be resurfaced or replaced.
  • Inspect the Stem: Look for pitting, corrosion, or damage that may prevent a proper seal. Take the old parts with you to the hardware store to get exact replacements.

Step 6: Reassemble the Faucet

Before reassembling, wrap plumber’s tape around the stem threads for a tighter seal. Carefully insert the stem assembly back into the faucet, tighten the packing nut until it’s snug (but not over-tightened), and reattach the handle securely.

Step 7: Turn Water Back On & Test

Slowly reopen the shutoff valve inside your home to let water flow back into the faucet. Turn the handle to the “off” position and watch closely for leaks. If water still drips, tighten the packing nut a little more or re-check the washer placement.

This detailed process not only stops most leaks but also extends the life of your outdoor faucet by replacing worn parts and restoring a proper seal.

When to Call a Plumber

While many outdoor faucet leaks can be fixed with a few tools and a little patience, there are situations where a professional plumber is your best option. Ignoring these signs can lead to serious water damage or costly repairs later.

Call a plumber right away if:

  • The faucet housing is cracked or split: A damaged body usually means replacement is the only solution, and a plumber can ensure it’s done correctly.
  • The shutoff valve won’t close or is damaged: A faulty shutoff valve can make even small repairs impossible. A plumber can replace the valve safely without flooding your system.
  • You notice water damage indoors or outdoors: Wet spots on walls, siding, or basement floors may indicate a hidden pipe leak, which needs professional diagnosis and repair.
  • The leak persists after basic repairs: If new washers, O-rings, or packing nuts don’t solve the problem, the issue may lie deeper in the plumbing system.
  • You suspect frozen or burst pipes: In winter, outdoor faucet leaks can mean your pipes have frozen and cracked. A plumber can locate and repair breaks before they cause major flooding.

Why a Professional is Worth It: Hiring a plumber ensures the job is done right the first time. They have specialized tools to access hard-to-reach fittings, check for hidden leaks, and replace the faucet or supply line if needed. This not only saves time but also helps protect your home from long-term water damage and mold growth.

Preventing Future Leaks

Keeping your outdoor faucet in good condition doesn’t just save water — it also helps avoid costly repairs and water damage. A few simple habits and upgrades can go a long way:

Disconnect Hoses Before Winter
Always remove hoses before freezing temperatures arrive. Water trapped in the hose or faucet can freeze, expand, and crack the faucet body or connecting pipes, leading to leaks and bursts once temperatures rise.

Install a Frost-Free Faucet
If you live in a cold climate, consider replacing your standard spigot with a frost-free faucet. This design places the shutoff valve further inside your home where it stays warm, preventing frozen pipes and leaks.

Inspect Annually
Make it a habit to check your outdoor faucet every spring before heavy use. Look for small drips, rust, mineral buildup, or loose connections. Catching minor issues early can save you from bigger plumbing problems later.

Tighten Packing Nut Periodically
The packing nut can loosen over time due to temperature changes and regular use. Give it a gentle turn with a wrench once or twice a year to keep it snug and prevent drips.

Use a Hose Bib Cover
In colder months, cover your outdoor faucet with an insulated hose bib cover. These inexpensive covers keep residual heat around the faucet and help prevent freezing even if you forget to disconnect the hose.

Additional Tip: Insulate Exposed Pipes
If your outdoor plumbing is exposed, add foam pipe insulation to protect it from freezing temperatures. This is especially helpful in unheated garages, crawlspaces, or exterior walls.

FAQs About Outdoor Faucet Leaks

How much water does a dripping outdoor faucet waste?

A single drip every second can waste over 3,000 gallons per year, which can add up to significant costs on your water bill.

Can I still use a leaking faucet until it’s fixed?

It’s not recommended. Continued use can make the leak worse and may cause damage to the faucet or surrounding area.

How long does it take to fix a leaking outdoor faucet?

Most simple repairs take less than 30 minutes if you have the right tools and parts on hand.

How often should I inspect my outdoor faucet?

Check your faucet every spring and fall for signs of leaks, corrosion, or loose fittings.

Do I need to replace the whole faucet if it’s leaking?

Not always. Many leaks are caused by worn washers or O-rings and can be repaired without replacing the entire faucet.

Conclusion

An outdoor faucet leak may seem minor, but it can waste water, attract pests, and damage your property if ignored. By following the steps in this guide, you can stop the drip, save money, and keep your plumbing system in top condition. Whether you choose to tackle the repair yourself or call in a professional, prompt action is key to preventing bigger problems later. Regular maintenance and seasonal preparation will ensure your outdoor faucet works reliably for years to come.