Start with the retaining nut, then look for other problems
- Tighten retaining nut. If you're lucky, you can fix your leaking faucet by simply tightening the nut under the handle. ...
- Remove the stem. Next, remove the faucet stem. ...
- Replace washer assembly. Keep track of the parts as you disassemble the faucet so you can install the new ones in the same order.
- Remove the vacuum breaker cap. ...
- Vacuum breaker parts. ...
Full Answer
How do you fix a leaking frost-proof faucet?
A leaking frost-proof faucet can waste a lot of water, but fixes are simple, whether the problem is the faucet stem washer assembly, the vacuum breaker, or just a loose retaining nut. Complete DIY projects like a pro! Sign up for our newsletter! If you're lucky, you can fix your leaking faucet by simply tightening the nut under the handle.
Are there any problems with a frost proof faucet?
If you have a frost-proof faucet like the one we show here, check out these fixes for the most common problems. If the faucet leaks from around the handle just when the water is turned on, the stem packing may be leaking. In some cases, you can fix this by simply tightening the retaining nut that's under the handle.
Is your exterior faucet leaking water?
Leaky, dripping exterior faucets not only waste water but also dump it next to the foundation, right where you don't want it. Luckily, they're easy to fix.
How do you stop water from coming out of a faucet?
Vacuum breaker - The vacuum breaker prevents water from entering the pipe if it does not go out of the faucet. Retaining nut - The retaining nut is located directly under the handle and is connected to the faucet stem. Water can leak in from any of these parts if they are loose or worn down. What Causes a Leaky Outdoor Faucet or Spigot?
How do you fix a leaky outdoor frost free faucet?
2:5016:09How To Fix a Leaking Frost Proof Faucet | DIY Plumbing - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipAfter you change it out put the cap. Back on. And if the leak was up here you've got it fixed.MoreAfter you change it out put the cap. Back on. And if the leak was up here you've got it fixed.
Why is my frost free tap leaking?
A leaking frost-proof faucet can waste a lot of water, but fixes are simple, whether the problem is the faucet stem washer assembly, the vacuum breaker, or just a loose retaining nut.
How do I fix a dripping outdoor faucet?
0:342:35How to Fix a Leaky Outdoor Faucet - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipTake the old washer to a plumbing supply store to make sure you're replacing it with the right oneMoreTake the old washer to a plumbing supply store to make sure you're replacing it with the right one put the new washer back inside the packing nut and retighten.
How do you repack a frost free faucet?
0:003:02Fixing Faucets : How to Repair a Leak in a Frost-Proof Water FaucetYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipI'm terry with towers murray plumbing Murray Utah here to show you how to repair a frost proof hoseMoreI'm terry with towers murray plumbing Murray Utah here to show you how to repair a frost proof hose bib for video purposes we're in we're indoors. We've got this locked in a box here to repair this
How do you repair a frost free Sillcock outdoor faucet?
0:213:15How to Fix a Leaky Frost Free Sillcock / Outdoor Faucet video - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipOff I'm going to take off the center screw. Then remove the handle. And then underneath this nut isMoreOff I'm going to take off the center screw. Then remove the handle. And then underneath this nut is a washer and a lot of times the problems in this washer.
Why does my outdoor faucet leak when I turn it on?
Sometimes your outdoor faucet will leak because the water pressure is too much for it to handle. In such a case, you'll have to call in a plumber to diagnose the problem. Usually, high pressure is a sign of underlying problems. If you're not careful, the high water pressure might permanently damage your faucet.
How much does a plumber charge to replace an outdoor spigot?
Plumber Cost to Install a New Outdoor Water Spigot For most small jobs, plumbers charge a flat rate of $100 to $300 which includes both materials and labor. For larger projects that require new pipes, demolition or that might exceed an hour and a half, expect to pay $45 to $65 per hour.
What is the cap on the top of my outdoor faucet?
The vacuum cap is circular and about an inch in diameter, and it either slips or screws onto the top of the faucet. The device underneath it is known as a vacuum breaker or an anti-siphon valve.
What is the cap on the top of my outdoor faucet?
The vacuum cap is circular and about an inch in diameter, and it either slips or screws onto the top of the faucet. The device underneath it is known as a vacuum breaker or an anti-siphon valve.
Where is the outdoor water shut off valve?
The main water shutoff valve supplies water to your entire home, and is usually located below the outdoor water faucet, or hose bibb, in the front of your home, or in the enclosure that houses an outside water heater.
Why does my hose leak at the spigot?
If your hose leaks where it connects to the spigot, it's most likely caused by a worn gasket, stripped adapter, or leaking connector. Connection problems usually cost between $2 and $20 to fix. New garden hoses can cost up to $400, depending on the length and material.
How do you tighten a packing nut on a faucet?
1:363:11Fix Leaking Shut-Off Valve | Tighten Packing Nut - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipYou don't need to tighten it too much just a little bit at a time. So tighten it about an eighth ofMoreYou don't need to tighten it too much just a little bit at a time. So tighten it about an eighth of a turn. And keep checking back to see if it stopped the leak.
How to Repair a Leaky Frost-Proof Faucet
Here are step-by-step instructions for how to repair a frost-proof faucet that’s leaking from a worn-out O-ring or washer.
Final Thoughts
Trust us, repairing a frost-free faucet looks much more complicated than it actually is.
Call 1-Tom-Plumber
Don’t hesitate to contact us here or call us at 1-Tom-Plumber (1-866-758-6237) if you need help repairing or installing a frost-proof outdoor faucet.
Why is there a loose retaining nut on my faucet?
A loose retaining nut is the most common cause. A loose nut prevents the faucet stem from being sealed fully. There could also be general damage around the faucet from mechanical stress or frost damage. Read more about touchless faucets here.
Why is my water spigot leaking?
Here are some of the most common causes of a leaky water spigot. A damaged washer assembly unit can mean the pipe is not connected to the water correctly, and some is leaking out . A cracked stem is also a common cause of a water faucet leaking. If the vacuum breaker does not close entirely, water can leak through and come out of the faucet.
What is the main part of an outdoor spigot?
Here are the main parts of an outdoor spigot: Faucet stem - This is the part that contains the pipe that lets water flow to the faucet.Usually, it’s inside the house wall but not always. Washer assembly unit - The washer assembly unit is the tip of the stem that secures it to the pipe. Vacuum breaker - The vacuum breaker prevents water ...
What prevents water from entering the pipe?
Vacuum breaker - The vacuum breaker prevents water from entering the pipe if it does not go out of the faucet. Retaining nut - The retaining nut is located directly under the handle and is connected to the faucet stem. Water can leak in from any of these parts if they are loose or worn down.
How to remove vacuum breaker plate?
Remove the vacuum breaker plate using your screwdriver and then a pair of pliers to take the fixture out. Sometimes, you may just need to clean the edges of the parts to fix the problem. If the parts are visibly deformed or damaged, replace the vacuum breaker with the new one.
What happens if a washer fails?
A failed washer will be deformed or possibly cracked. If you see that your washer assembly is broken, replace it by using your screwdriver. The washer assembly can also just be loose and need to be tightened. If the washer assembly is still in good condition, then that means the problem is likely the vacuum breaker.
Is a frost free spigot a faucet?
Parts of an Outdoor Faucet & Frost Free Spigot. As a general rule of thumb, if the handle for your faucet is perpendicular to the faucet itself, then it’s probably a frost-free faucet. If the handle is not perpendicular, then it’s probably not a frost free spigot. Here are the main parts of an outdoor spigot:
How to Repair A Leaky Frost-Proof Faucet
- Here are step-by-step instructions for how to repair a frost-proof faucet that’s leaking from a worn-out O-ring or washer. 1. Turn off the water supply valve to the sillcock inside the house. It should be located somewhere close to the opposite side of the outdoor spigot (on the inside of the house). If you can’t find it, then shut off the main wat...
Recommended Frost-Proof Faucets
Final Thoughts
- Trust us, repairing a frost-free faucet looks much more complicated than it actually is. Remember, all you’re doing is (1) tightening what’s already part of the assembly to make sure the fittings are extra-secure, and (2) replacing simple O-ring and washer if they look worn out. It’s as simple as taking one out and putting the new one in. Give it a try if you’re seeing a leak. You got this!
Related Resources
Call 1-Tom-Plumber
- Don’t hesitate to contact us here or call us at 1-Tom-Plumber (1-866-758-6237) if you need help repairing or installing a frost-proof outdoor faucet. 1-Tom-Plumber’s certified team of plumbers and drain technicians respond immediately to any emergency plumbing,drain cleaning, or water damage problem. We also handle the excavationof underground water lines and sewer main line…