How to Fix a Leaky Outdoor Sillcock

An outdoor sillcock (outdoor water faucet) is a convenient feature for your home. But if it's leaky, it can also be a costly, sucking water and running up your water bill. Watch for leaks and fix one promptly.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Find out why your outdoor sillcock may be leaking. Heat in the summertime will make the washers weak and cause them to lose their strength. In cold weather, the sillcock washers may become brittle, especially when you've had freezing temperatures.

2. Check the cap of your sillcock. The cap holds the shaft in place. The shaft protrudes through the cap where the handle attaches. Over time, the cap can work loose, and water will seep out around it. Tighten the cap with a wrench. Check the sillcock periodically (especially after a lot of use) for leaks.

3. Cut the water supply to your outdoor sillcock. Relieve the water pressure by opening the sillcock handle. Now you can safely dismantle the sillcock.

4. Replace the washers if you have a leaky outdoor sillcock. Remove the handle of the sillcock and remove the nut cap. Slide the shaft out. If the washers are worn or broken, replace them. Make sure that you have no grit or debris inside your sillcock. If you do, use a fine-bristle brush to clean inside the sillcock before you put the shaft back in.