How to Fix a Leaky Faucet Outside With a Rubber Washer
Most outdoor faucets use a compression system similar to your house sink faucets. There is a compression washer on the end of the faucet stem. As the washer ages it will become worn and develop cracks that will eventually lead to a leaky faucet. Fix your leaky outdoor faucet by replacing the rubber washer. Take the old washer to the hardware store to purchase an exact replacement. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- Phillips-head screwdriver
- Wrench set
- Slip-joint pliers
- Replacement rubber washer
Instructions
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1
Turn off the water supply to the outside faucet by turning the lever shut-off handle on the line.
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2
Remove the screw that secures the faucet handle to the faucet with a Phillips-head screwdriver. Some faucets use a nut instead of a screw. Remove the nut with a wrench and pull the handle off the faucet.
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3
Grab the faucet body with a pair of slip-joint pliers. Remove the packing nut on the front of the faucet with a wrench. Turn the packing nut counter-clockwise to remove it from the faucet.
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4
Pull the stem out of the faucet with a firm pull. If the stem does not come out, it may be threaded into the faucet body. Attach the handle back onto the stem and turn the handle counterclockwise to remove the stem from the faucet body.
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5
Remove the screw securing the rubber washer to the end of the stem with a Phillips-head screwdriver.
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Place the new rubber washer over the end of the stem and secure with the retaining screw. Insert the stem into the faucet body and thread the stem in if your stem uses threads.
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7
Thread the packing nut over the stem and the faucet body until the nut is hand-tight. Grab the faucet body with the slip-joint pliers and tighten the packing nut another ¾ turn with a wrench.
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8
Place the faucet handle back over the stem and secure with the retaining screw or nut. Turn the water supply to the faucet back on.
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References
- Photo Credit blue and red faucets image by Mat Hayward from Fotolia.com
