A leaky outdoor faucet might seem like a minor problem, but left unchecked, it can waste thousands of liters of water and even cause damage to your home’s foundation or exterior walls. Fortunately, fixing a dripping spigot is often a straightforward task—and addressing it quickly can save you money and prevent bigger headaches down the line.
If you live in Trois-Rivières and notice leaks or plumbing issues around your home, Plomberie Trois Rivières is here to help with professional repairs, replacements, and expert advice to protect your property.
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to fix a leaky outdoor faucet and when it’s time to call in a professional.
Common Causes of Outdoor Faucet Leaks
Before jumping into repairs, it’s important to understand what’s causing the leak. The most common reasons include:
- Worn-out washers or seals
- Loose packing nuts
- Cracked or damaged spigot components
- Freezing damage from winter temperatures
- Corrosion or age-related deterioration
Identifying the cause will help you determine whether a quick DIY fix is possible or if professional replacement is needed.
How to Fix a Leaky Outdoor Faucet: Step-by-Step
Step 1: Shut Off the Water Supply
Before you begin any repairs, turn off the water supply to the faucet. Look for the shut-off valve inside your home—often located near the wall where the outdoor faucet exits the house.
If no dedicated shut-off exists, you may need to turn off the main water valve temporarily.
Step 2: Drain the Faucet
Open the outdoor faucet to drain any remaining water from the line. This prevents spills and makes the repair work cleaner and easier.
Step 3: Remove the Faucet Handle
Using a screwdriver, carefully remove the handle screw and detach the faucet handle. Keep all screws and parts in a safe place.
If the handle is stuck, apply a penetrating lubricant and gently wiggle it free.
Step 4: Tighten the Packing Nut
The packing nut is located just behind the handle. Use an adjustable wrench to tighten it slightly. Sometimes, simply tightening the packing nut resolves minor leaks.
Caution: Don’t overtighten—it can crack the faucet body.
Step 5: Replace the Washer
If tightening the nut doesn't stop the leak, the washer inside the faucet may be worn out.
- Unscrew the packing nut completely and pull out the faucet stem.
- Inspect the washer at the end of the stem.
- If it’s damaged, remove it and replace it with a new washer of the same size.
- Reassemble the faucet and handle.
Step 6: Turn the Water Back On and Test
Once reassembled, turn the water supply back on and test the faucet. Check for any continued dripping or leaks around the handle or spout.
If the leak persists after washer replacement, there may be deeper issues like a cracked valve seat or internal pipe damage, which requires professional attention.
When to Call a Professional Plumber
While many minor leaks can be fixed with basic tools and parts, you should call a professional plumber if:
- The faucet continues leaking after washer replacement
- The spigot is cracked or severely corroded
- There’s evidence of water damage on the exterior wall
- You suspect internal pipe damage from freezing
At Plomberie Trois Rivières, we offer fast, reliable outdoor faucet repairs and replacements to keep your home safe and water-efficient. Contact us today to schedule a service call or inspection.
Prevent Future Outdoor Faucet Leaks
- Always disconnect garden hoses before winter to prevent freezing
- Use frost-free outdoor faucets in colder climates
- Regularly inspect and maintain your spigots and shut-off valves
- Insulate exposed pipes in cold weather
A little maintenance now can save you from costly repairs later.
Final Thoughts
Fixing a leaky outdoor faucet is often a simple, satisfying DIY project—but it’s important to act quickly before a small drip turns into a bigger problem. When in doubt, professional plumbers like Plombier Québec Pro are just a call away to ensure the job is done right.
Ready to fix that leak or upgrade your outdoor plumbing? Reach out to us today and let’s get your home back in top shape.
