How to Fix a Leaky Outdoor Faucet (Hose Bib)
Short answer: If water leaks around the handle, tighten the packing nut behind the handle a quarter turn. If the spout drips with the handle closed, shut off the water to the spigot, unscrew the stem, and replace the rubber washer on the end. A spigot that leaks inside the wall after a freeze needs a pro.
- Difficulty
- Easy to moderate
- Time
- 30 to 60 minutes
- Updated
- November 9, 2026
What is causing it?
Handle leaks come from worn packing around the stem. A dripping spout means the rubber washer at the end of the stem is worn. Water spraying from the vacuum breaker cap on top may mean that part has failed. A frost-free sillcock that leaks inside the house after the first use in spring often froze and split over winter.
Tools and materials
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Tools
- Adjustable wrenchCheck price on Amazon
- ScrewdriverCheck price on Amazon
- FlashlightCheck price on Amazon
Materials
- Faucet washer and O-ring assortmentBring the old washer to matchCheck price on Amazon
- Packing string or packing washerCheck price on Amazon
- Repair kit for your frost-free sillcock brand, if neededCheck price on Amazon
How do you fix a leaky outdoor faucet? Step by step
Try the packing nut first
If water leaks around the stem when the faucet is on, tighten the nut just behind the handle a quarter turn clockwise. If that stops it, you are done.
Shut off the water
Close the indoor shutoff for the outdoor faucet (often in the basement or crawl space near where the pipe exits), or the main water valve. Open the outdoor faucet to drain it.
Remove the stem
Remove the handle screw and handle, unscrew the packing nut, then turn the stem out counterclockwise. On frost-free models the stem is long; pull it straight out.
Replace the washer and packing
Remove the screw at the end of the stem, replace the rubber washer with an exact match, and replace the O-ring or packing. Inspect the seat inside the faucet for damage.
Reassemble and test
Thread the stem back in, tighten the packing nut snugly, reattach the handle, turn the water back on, and check for drips with the faucet closed and open.
Safety notes
- Do not overtighten the packing nut; it can crush the packing and make the handle stiff.
- If you find a split pipe after a freeze, keep the water off and call a plumber.
- Leave the hose disconnected in freezing weather.
When should you call a pro?
- Water appears inside the house, a basement ceiling, or the wall when the faucet runs.
- The faucet body is cracked or the seat is badly worn.
- You want to replace the spigot with a frost-free sillcock, which involves cutting and joining pipe.
Frequently asked questions
Why does my outdoor faucet leak only when a hose is attached?
With the hose nozzle closed, pressure backs up into the faucet and the vacuum breaker or packing leaks. Tighten the packing nut or replace the vacuum breaker.
What is a frost-free sillcock?
A spigot with a long stem that closes the valve inside the heated house, so water does not sit in the part exposed to cold. It still freezes if a hose is left attached.
Where is the shutoff for my outdoor faucet?
Usually on the pipe inside the house just before it goes through the wall. Some homes do not have one, so use the main shutoff.
Sources
Steps are based on these manufacturer and safety references. Your product's own manual comes first.