A slow drip from an outdoor faucet can seem small.
But even a small leak can waste water over time.
The good news is simple.
Many standard hose faucets do have a rubber washer inside.
That washer is often the first part to check.
This is especially true with a round handle faucet.
That style is often called a hose bib.
It may also be called a sillcock.
These faucets are common in older homes.
They are also common on newer homes.
If the faucet drips from the spout when closed, suspect the washer.
The washer sits on the end of the stem.
When you turn the handle off, it seals against a seat.
Over time, the washer can harden or crack.
It can also get a small groove worn into it.
Then water slips past the seal.
That creates a steady drip outside.
The EPA Fix a Leak Week page explains why small leaks matter.
Do You Need To Shut Off The Water?
For most washer repairs, yes.
You should shut off the water first.
Then open the outdoor faucet.
This releases pressure in the line.
You may not need to drain the whole house.
You only need to relieve pressure from that line.
Some homes have a separate shutoff for outside faucets.
Look in the basement, crawlspace, or utility room.
If there is no separate shutoff, use the main shutoff.
Question And Answer
Question: Do standard outdoor hose faucets have a rubber washer inside?
Answer: Yes, many standard outdoor hose faucets have a rubber washer. If the faucet drips from the spout when closed, that washer is often worn. Shut off the water first. Then remove the handle and stem to inspect the washer.
What About The Sideways Faucet?
Pointing the faucet sideways usually does not cause a drip.
It may make hose use easier.
That can help water flowers.
Still, the faucet should slope in a safe direction.
Water should not sit inside during freezing weather.
If you live where pipes freeze, this matters more.
A sideways faucet may hold a little water.
Remove the hose before freezing weather arrives.
That helps protect the faucet and pipe.
Other Leak Points To Check
Look closely at where the leak starts.
A drip from the spout often means a bad washer.
A leak around the handle may be packing.
That packing seals around the stem.
It may need gentle tightening.
It may also need replacement.
A leak from a vacuum breaker is different.
That part may be on top of the faucet.
Some hose bibs include anti-siphon protection.
You can find common hose faucet parts at Ace Hardware.
Simple Repair Plan
First, shut off the water to the faucet.
Second, open the faucet to drain pressure.
Third, remove the handle screw.
Fourth, loosen the packing nut.
Fifth, pull out the stem.
Then check the washer on the end.
Take the washer to the store.
Match the size and shape.
Replace the screw if it looks rusty.
Reassemble the faucet with care.
Turn the water back on slowly.
Then check for drips.
If it still drips, the seat may be damaged.
At that point, replacing the faucet may be best.
For a five or six-year-old faucet, try the washer first.
It is a low-cost repair.
It is also a good homeowner project.
I’m Chris Mayer, writing for Plumbing 101.
