TIGHTEN UP OUTDOOR FAUCET
Fix leaks now before your money goes down the drain.

meter with notes

Note: Fixing a leaking outdoor faucet is not a difficult process. However, if you do not feel comfortable performing the following steps, we recommend you hire a licensed professional plumber to do the work for you.

Tools needed

  • Adjustable wrench
  • Replacement washer
  • Flathead screwdriver
  • Penetrating oil
  • Pliers
  • Towel
  • Awl
  • Plumber’s grease

Steps to fix your faucet leak

STEP 1

Turn off water using the shut-off valve located at your meter box.

STEP 2

Using a wrench, remove the valve body at the large nut. Caution: These instructions are not to REPLACE the entire faucet-only to repair the valve.

STEP 3

If necessary, use a screwdriver to remove the nut that holds the knob together and remove the knob. (This step depends on the type of outdoor faucet used.)

STEP 4

Loosen joints on knob using penetrating oil (if needed).

STEP 5

Use an adjustable wrench to unscrew nut and remove the faucet assembly from wall.

STEP 6

Remove the assembly and inspect it for corrosion.

STEP 7

If faucet assembly is stuck, soak the joints with penetrating oil for several hours. Once oil has loosened the faucet, hold stem with pliers and tap them with a hammer to pop the assembly off.

STEP 8

Remove the screw holding the assembly together.

STEP 9

Use the awl to remove the old washer. Replace the washer; cover with plumber’s grease and install the washer.

STEP 10

Replace the assembly on the wall (see step 2 photo). Turn the water back on at the meter and check for leaks.