A leaky outdoor faucet might not seem like a big deal—until your water bill spikes or hidden damage starts creeping into your home. Whether it’s a slow drip, a steady trickle, or water spraying from the handle, a leak is a sign that something’s not right. Ignoring it could lead to wasted water, higher bills, and even damage to your foundation.
If your faucet is leaking, it’s time to take action. Here’s what could be causing the problem and how to fix it before it gets worse.
Why Your Outdoor Faucet Matters
Outdoor faucets, often called hose bibbs or spigots, make outdoor chores much easier. They provide water access for watering plants, washing cars, cleaning patios, and even filling up a pool on a hot day. Without them, everyday tasks would take far more effort.
Since outdoor faucets are exposed to the weather year-round, they experience more wear and tear than indoor fixtures. A leaking outdoor faucet isn’t just annoying—it could point to deeper problems that need fixing. Ignoring leaks can lead to wasted water, higher water bills, or even damage to your home.
Recognizing the value of your outdoor faucet and addressing any issues early can save both time and money. Whether the problem is a minor drip or something more serious, taking care of leaks quickly can prevent bigger headaches later.
Common Causes of a Leaking Outdoor Faucet
Worn-Out Washers and O-Rings
Washers and O-rings are small parts inside an outdoor faucet, but they play a big role in keeping water contained. The washer forms a seal to stop water flow when the faucet is off, and the O-ring prevents leaks around the handle. Over time, these parts can break down from frequent use and exposure to weather changes.
If water drips from the spout when the faucet is off or leaks around the handle, worn-out washers or O-rings may be to blame. These issues might seem minor at first, but they can grow worse over time. Replacing these parts is usually a quick fix, but delaying repairs could lead to more significant damage.
Loose or Damaged Packing Nut
The packing nut holds the faucet’s packing material in place, creating a watertight seal around the stem. If the packing nut becomes loose or damaged, water can leak around the handle when the faucet is turned on.
In some cases, tightening the packing nut with a wrench can solve the problem. However, if the nut or packing material is worn out, replacing it might be necessary. Fixing the issue early can prevent further complications and keep your faucet working properly.
Damage from Freezing Weather
In colder climates, freezing temperatures can cause significant damage to outdoor faucets. Water left inside the faucet or pipes can freeze and expand, leading to cracks in the faucet or its connected pipes. These cracks often go unnoticed until warmer weather arrives, revealing leaks.
To prevent this, consider installing a frost-proof faucet or taking steps to winterize outdoor plumbing. If freezing weather has already caused damage, a plumber can inspect the situation and recommend the best fix.
Why Does My Outdoor Spigot Leak When I Turn It On?
When a spigot leaks only while in use, there are a couple of likely reasons. One common cause is increased water pressure that stresses weak seals or damaged parts, making leaks easy to spot.
Another possibility involves backpressure from a connected hose, especially if it has a nozzle. This extra pressure can force water through worn washers, loose packing nuts, or other areas that are already vulnerable. If leaks appear under these conditions, the faucet might need repairs.
Risks of Ignoring a Leaky Outdoor Faucet
A dripping faucet may not seem urgent, but ignoring it can lead to bigger problems. Even a small leak can waste hundreds of gallons, adding unnecessary costs to your utility bill.
Beyond wasting water, a steady leak can damage your home. Water pooling near the foundation can weaken the structure, rot wood, and encourage mold growth. These problems are not only expensive but also time-consuming to repair.
Fixing a leaking faucet as soon as possible can help you avoid these risks. Quick repairs now mean fewer complications and lower costs later.
Should You Fix a Leaky Outdoor Faucet Yourself?
If you’re handy, you might be able to tighten a packing nut or replace a washer to stop the drip. But DIY repairs don’t always fix the root cause. Hidden pipe damage, worn-out seals, or freeze-related cracks can lead to ongoing leaks—and bigger problems down the road.
Why Hiring a Professional is Worth It
A professional plumber doesn’t just patch the problem—they diagnose and fix it right the first time. Bulldog Rooter’s experts inspect for deeper issues, use high-quality replacement parts, and make sure your outdoor faucet is fully repaired, not just temporarily patched up.
Skip the Guesswork—Call Bulldog Rooter Today
A leaky faucet wastes water and money. Instead of dealing with repeat fixes, let Bulldog Rooter handle it. Our plumbers are available 24/7 and provide fast, reliable service with no hidden fees.
Call Bulldog Rooter at (509) 687-7001 or email dispatch@bulldogrooter.com to schedule your repair today.
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