How to Fix a Leaking Outside Water Tap: A Step-by-Step Guide

A leaking outside water tap, also known as an outdoor faucet or hose bib, can be both a nuisance and a waste of water. Fortunately, fixing a leaking tap is usually a straightforward task that you can perform yourself. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you diagnose and repair a leaking outside water tap.

1. Identify the Cause of the Leak

Before you can fix the leak, you need to understand why it’s happening. Common causes of a leaking outside tap include:

• Worn Washer: Over time, the washer inside the tap can become worn or damaged.
• Faulty Valve Seat: The valve seat, where the faucet closes off, may be corroded or damaged.
• Loose Parts: Components like the packing nut or handle can become loose and cause leaks.
• Corrosion: Rust or corrosion on the faucet can lead to leaks.

2. Gather Tools and Materials

Make sure you have the following tools and materials before starting the repair:

• Adjustable Wrench or Pipe Wrench
• Screwdriver (Flathead or Phillips)
• Replacement Washer or other parts (if needed)
• Plumber’s Tape (Teflon tape)
• Plumber’s Putty (optional, for sealing)
• Bucket or Towel (to catch any water)
• Pipe Sealant (if required by the faucet manufacturer)

3. Turn Off the Water Supply

1. Locate the Shutoff Valve: Find the valve that controls the water supply to the outside tap. This is usually located in your basement, crawl space, or near the exterior faucet.
2. Turn Off the Valve: Turn the valve clockwise to shut off the water supply.
3. Drain the Tap: Open the outside tap to let out any remaining water and relieve pressure in the line.

4. Disassemble the Faucet

1. Remove the Handle:

   • Locate the Screws: Look for screws on the faucet handle. They are often hidden under a decorative cap.
   • Unscrew the Handle: Use a screwdriver to remove the screws and take off the handle.

2. Remove the Packing Nut:

   • Loosen the Nut: Use an adjustable wrench to loosen and remove the packing nut located below the handle.

3. Extract the Stem:

   • Pull Out the Stem: Carefully pull out the stem assembly from the faucet body. This part contains the washer and other components.

5. Inspect and Replace Parts

1. Check the Washer:

   • Remove the Old Washer: Take off the old washer from the end of the stem.
   • Replace with New Washer: Install a new washer that matches the size and type of the original. Ensure it fits snugly and is properly aligned.

2. Inspect the Valve Seat:

   • Check for Corrosion: Examine the valve seat where the stem makes contact. If it’s corroded or damaged, you may need to clean it or replace it.
   • Clean the Valve Seat: Use a valve seat cleaning tool or a fine-grit sandpaper to remove any corrosion or debris from the valve seat.

3. Look for Corrosion:

   • Inspect Components: Check for rust or corrosion on the stem and other parts. Replace any corroded components if necessary.

6. Reassemble the Faucet

1. Reinstall the Stem:

   • Insert the Stem: Place the stem assembly back into the faucet body.

2. Replace the Packing Nut:

   • Screw on the Nut: Reattach the packing nut and tighten it with a wrench.

3. Reattach the Handle:

   • Align and Secure: Position the handle on the stem and secure it with screws. Tighten them properly.

7. Turn On the Water Supply

1. Open the Shutoff Valve: Turn the valve counterclockwise to restore water flow to the tap.
2. Test the Tap: Open the tap and check for leaks. Ensure that the tap operates smoothly without any drips.

8. Final Adjustments

1. Check for Leaks: Ensure all connections are tight and there are no leaks around the faucet.
2. Clean Up: Wipe up any water spills and make sure your workspace is tidy.

Tips for Success

• Use the Right Parts: Ensure that replacement parts are compatible with your faucet model.
• Handle Parts Carefully: Avoid damaging parts by handling them gently.
• Regular Maintenance: Periodically check and maintain your faucet to prevent future issues.

Conclusion

Fixing a leaking outside water tap is a manageable DIY task that can save you water and reduce your utility bills. By following these steps, you can effectively diagnose and repair the leak, restoring your faucet to proper working condition. If you encounter persistent problems or complications, consider consulting a professional plumber for further assistance.

For more home maintenance tips and DIY guides, check out our other articles. If you have any questions or need additional help, feel free to leave a comment below!