What to Do If Your Outside Faucet Is Leaking When Using a Garden Hose

Noticed your outside faucet leaking when you turned on the hose? A small drip might not seem like a big deal, but it can waste water, increase your utility bill, and even lead to water damage around your foundation. Catching the issue early can save time and money. Keep reading to learn how to stop an outside water faucet from leaking so you can avoid these problems before they become a hassle.

Why Is Your Outside Faucet Leaking When You Use a Garden Hose?

If your garden hose leaks at the faucet, it could be due to a loose connection or a worn washer. But if the leaking outside faucet only happens when the hose is attached, the problem may be:

• Inside the spigot
• At the vacuum breaker
• In the hose bib’s valve assembly

Leaks can also be caused by the hose bib freezing in the winter, thus resulting in a crack in the line from the faucet. The crack is probably tight enough to prevent water when there is no backpressure, but the moment you put a hose on and increase the backpressure, it leaks into the house. This is why you always need to consider outside plumbing tips and maintenance.

How to Check for an Outside Faucet Leak Before It Causes Water Damage

Checking for outdoor leaks is one of our top summer plumbing tips. Even small leaks can lead to mold or foundation issues. Before things get out of hand, do a quick inspection.

Look for signs like:

• Dripping from the spout, especially after the hose is turned off
• Moisture inside the wall or crawlspace behind the faucet
• Water backup when the hose is running, indicating a clog or poor drainage

If you're unsure where the leak is coming from, try these clever ways to check for plumbing leaks.

Common Causes of a Leaking Outside Faucet

Why is my outside faucet leaking? There are a few likely culprits behind outside faucet leaks. These may include:

• Worn washers or O-rings in the spigot
• Damaged hose bib due to winter freezing
• Loose packing nut around the handle
• Cracks in the faucet body from corrosion or impact
• Vacuum breaker failure, especially if the faucet leaks only with the hose attached

Some of these issues, like a dripping hose bib, are similar to water heater hose bib problems.

How to Fix a Leaking Outside Faucet

Ready to learn how to stop an outside water faucet from leaking? It’s surprisingly simple to troubleshoot on your own. Try these steps to stop an outside faucet leaking from the handle:

1. Turn off the water at the shut-off valve.
2. Remove the handle and packing nut using a wrench.
3. Inspect and replace the washer or O-ring inside the stem.
4. If it’s leaking from the spout, check the vacuum breaker and replace it if cracked.
5. If the faucet is old or corroded, it might be time to replace the entire fixture.

Frequently Asked Questions 

Can a leaking outdoor faucet cause water damage inside?

Yes. Water can seep into siding, basement walls, or crawlspaces, especially if the leak goes unnoticed for a while. If the outside faucet leaks behind the wall, you should call a professional.

How do I know if my outside faucet is broken?

Signs of a garden outdoor faucet with a leak include low water pressure, visible cracks, or constant dripping even when it’s turned off.

Should I replace an old outdoor faucet?

You might want to replace an outdoor faucet if it’s leaking regularly, hard to turn, or more than 10-15 years old.

When to Call a Plumber for an Outside Faucet Leak

If tightening connections and replacing washers doesn’t solve the issue, or if you suspect damage behind the wall, it’s time to call in the pros. Persistent leaks can lead to serious structural damage, so don’t wait too long to take action.

Roto-Rooter’s licensed plumbers are ready to help with faucet repairs, replacements, and leak detection. Schedule service today and keep your outdoor plumbing in top shape.