Why Does an Outside Faucet Drip?

Outdoor faucets provide a source of water for various tasks. However, when an outdoor faucet drips, it can be an expensive and frustrating ordeal. Stop the leak by determining why it drips.

Open Faucets

Try tightening the knob completely. If it is left open even a little bit, the faucet could still drip.

Knob Leaks

If the faucet seems to leak from the knob where you turn the faucet on, tighten the packing nut under the handle with a wrench.

Packing Nut Leaks

A faucet leak could be a result of a corroded interior of the packing nut. Unscrew the faucet knob, remove the packing nut and replace the corroded interior with a new washer.

Other Leaks

Sometimes, the compression washer can cause leaks. Unscrew the main knob of the faucet, remove the main compartment and pry loose the compression washer. Replace with a new washer.

Repairing Outdoor Faucets

Before you repair an outdoor faucet, make sure the water valve is turned off. Then unscrew the faucet and make the appropriate changes.

References

• BobVila.com; How to Repair a Dripping Outdoor Faucet