The sound of constantly dripping water from a leaky outside tap can be not only exasperating, but it can also waste a significant amount of water and increase your water bill. Even if the weather is mild where you live, a leaking tap can freeze and burst during cold spells, creating an even bigger problem to deal with. In most cases, a leaky outside tap is a simple problem with an easy fix that can usually be carried out in less than an hour, saving you money and the inconvenience of a more serious issue.
In many instances, wear and tear are the main causes of a leaky outdoor tap. The washer inside the tap is prone to deterioration over time, causing it to become stiff and unable to form a tight seal. If this is the case, simply replacing the washer will usually cure the problem. If the leak is coming from the base of the tap where it connects to the pipework, it may be that the tap needs to be tightened with an adjustable wrench. However, if the leak is coming from the actual pipe, rather than the tap itself, this may indicate a more serious underlying problem that requires the attention of a plumber.
If you have isolated the leak to the tap itself and are confident in your DIY abilities, replacing the washer is a straightforward procedure. Firstly, turn off the water supply to the tap using either the internal stopcock or the external stopcock located under the ground. Next, open the tap to release any remaining water. Using an adjustable wrench, carefully unscrew the aerator, which is the part of the tap from which the water flows. Once the aerator is removed, use the same tool to unscrew the packing nut. This should allow you to access the washer, which can now be replaced with a new one. Make sure that the new washer is the correct size and type for your tap, then reassemble the tap in the reverse order of disassembly, taking care to tighten the packing nut securely.
Disassembling the Tap
The next step is to disassemble the tap. This will allow you to access the washer and seat, which are the most common causes of leaks.
To disassemble the tap, you will need a few tools, including a wrench, a screwdriver, and a pair of pliers.
- Turn off the water supply to the tap. This is usually done by turning off the valve under the sink.
- Open the tap to release any remaining water.
- Remove the aerator. The aerator is the small, mesh screen that is attached to the end of the tap. It can be removed by unscrewing it with your hand or with a wrench.
- Remove the handle. The handle is usually held in place by a screw. Remove the screw and then pull the handle off.
- Remove the packing nut. The packing nut is located under the handle. It is usually made of brass or plastic. Use a wrench to loosen the packing nut and then remove it by hand.
- Remove the washer and seat. The washer is a small, rubber disk that is located inside the packing nut. The seat is the metal surface that the washer seals against. Use a screwdriver or a pair of pliers to remove the washer and seat.
Troubleshooting the Washer and Seat
Once you have removed the washer and seat, you can inspect them for damage. The washer should be soft and pliable. If it is hard or cracked, it will need to be replaced. The seat should be smooth and free of any burrs. If the seat is damaged, it will need to be repaired or replaced.
Here is a table summarizing the most common problems with washers and seats, and how to fix them:
| Problem | Solution |
|---|---|
| The washer is hard or cracked. | Replace the washer. |
| The seat is damaged. | Repair or replace the seat. |
Once you have fixed the washer and seat, you can reassemble the tap. To do this, simply follow the steps in reverse order.
Replacing Worn Washers
If your outside tap is leaking from the handle, the most likely culprit is worn washers. Replacing washers is a relatively simple task that can be completed in a few minutes. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Turn off the water supply to the tap. This is usually done by closing the stopcock or valve that controls the water flow to the tap.
- Remove the handle. This is usually done by unscrewing the screw that holds the handle in place.
- Remove the packing nut. This is the large nut that is located behind the handle.
- Replace the washers. There are usually two washers, one on the top of the packing nut and one on the bottom. Remove the old washers and replace them with new ones. The new washers should be the same size and type as the old ones.
Recommended Washer Material Compatible Tap Type Rubber Brass, plastic Nylon Stainless steel Leather Chrome-plated brass - Reassemble the tap. Replace the packing nut and tighten it securely. Then, replace the handle and tighten the screw that holds it in place.
- Turn on the water supply and check for leaks. If there are no leaks, you’re done!
Inspecting and Cleaning the Valve Seat
The valve seat is the area where the washer meets the tap body, and it can become clogged with debris or damaged over time. To inspect the valve seat, remove the washer and carefully examine the area. If there is any debris, use a small brush or toothpick to gently remove it. If the valve seat is damaged, you may need to replace the entire tap.
Once the valve seat is clean, apply a small amount of lubricant to the area. This will help to create a seal between the washer and the tap body, preventing leaks.
If you are still having trouble with a leaking outside tap after cleaning the valve seat, you may need to replace the washer or the entire tap. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for your specific tap model.
Here are some additional tips for inspecting and cleaning the valve seat:
| Tip | Description |
|---|---|
| Use a flashlight to help you see the valve seat clearly. | A flashlight will help you to see any debris or damage that may be causing the leak. |
| Be careful not to scratch the valve seat. | If you scratch the valve seat, it could cause the tap to leak even more. |
| If you are not sure how to inspect or clean the valve seat, consult a plumber. | A plumber will be able to help you to identify and fix the problem. |
Reassembling the Tap
Once you have replaced the washer and seat, it’s time to reassemble the tap. Follow these steps:
6. Refitting the Tap Handle
A loose or improperly fitted tap handle can also cause a leak. To refit the handle, follow these steps:
- Remove the aerator from the tap spout if there is one.
- Using a screwdriver or Allen key, loosen the screw located on the base of the tap handle.
- Lift the handle off the tap stem.
- Check the O-ring or washer located at the base of the handle. If it is worn or damaged, replace it.
- Apply a small amount of plumber’s grease to the O-ring or washer.
- Realign the handle with the stem and push it back into place.
- Tighten the screw to secure the handle.
- Reinstall the aerator if you removed it in step 1.
| Component | Function |
|---|---|
| Handle | Controls the flow of water |
| Stem | Moves up and down to open and close the valve |
| O-ring or washer | Creates a watertight seal between the handle and stem |
| Screw | Holds the handle in place |
Applying Pipe Sealant (Optional)
Applying pipe sealant is an optional step that can provide additional protection against leaks. Use a sealant specifically designed for outdoor plumbing applications, such as a silicone-based or Teflon-based sealant. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for application.
Procedure for Applying Pipe Sealant:
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| 1 | Clean the area around the leak using a wire brush or sandpaper to remove any dirt or corrosion. |
| 2 | Apply a thin bead of sealant around the base of the tap where it meets the pipe. |
| 3 | Use a damp finger to smooth out the sealant and ensure it has filled any gaps. |
| 4 | Allow the sealant to dry completely before turning on the water supply. |
It’s important to note that pipe sealant should not be used as a substitute for tightening the tap properly. However, it can provide an extra layer of protection against leaks, especially if the tap has been subjected to heavy use or extreme weather conditions.
Turning the Water Supply Back On
Once the tap washer has been replaced, it’s time to turn the water supply back on. Here are the detailed steps to do so:
1. Slowly Open the Tap
Grasp the tap handle and slowly rotate it counterclockwise to open the tap slightly. Let the water flow into a bucket or over the ground for a few seconds to allow any air trapped in the pipe to escape.
2. Inspect for Leaks
Keep an eye on the replaced washer and the surrounding area for any signs of water escaping. Check both the joint where the washer is installed and the length of the tap’s body.
3. Adjust the Tap Handle
If there are no leaks, adjust the tap handle to the desired flow rate by turning it further counterclockwise. Avoid overtightening the handle, as it can damage the washer or the tap threads.
4. Shut Off the Water
Once the tap is operating properly, shut off the water supply completely by rotating the handle clockwise.
5. Check for Further Leaks
Wait a few minutes and check around the tap’s base, joints, and body for any lingering leaks. If you notice any, tighten the appropriate connections or consult a plumber.
6. Secure the Aerator
If your tap has an aerator, reinstall it by screwing it back onto the tap spout. Ensure it’s securely tightened to prevent water splashing or leaking.
7. Clean Up
Wipe away any excess water or debris from the tap and surrounding area using a clean cloth.
8. Test the Tap Regularly
To ensure the tap remains in good working condition, test it regularly by turning it on and off several times. Monitor for any leaks or abnormal noises. Promptly address any issues to prevent further damage or inconvenience.
Winterizing the Tap (For Cold Regions)
Prepare your outside tap for the winter months to prevent freezing and potential damage. Here’s how:
- Turn off the water supply: Locate the shut-off valve that controls water flow to the tap and turn it off.
- Drain the tap: Open the tap and allow all water to drain out. Keep it open for a few minutes to ensure complete drainage.
- Disconnect the hose: Remove any hoses connected to the tap, as they can trap water and lead to freezing.
- Insulate the tap: Wrap the tap in insulation, such as foam or rubber covers, to protect it from cold weather.
- Cover the tap: Place a protective cover over the tap to shield it from snow, ice, and debris.
- Apply anti-freeze: In areas with extreme cold, apply an anti-freeze solution to the tap to prevent freezing. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for safe use.
- Check regularly: During the winter, occasionally check the tap for any signs of leaks or damage.
- Thaw the tap (if frozen): If the tap freezes, use a hairdryer or heat gun to gently thaw it. Avoid using boiling water.
- Replace the washer: If the leak persists after thawing, replace the washer inside the tap.
- Call a plumber: If you encounter any problems or the leak continues, contact a licensed plumber for assistance.
How To Fix A Leaking Outside Tap
Leaking external faucets are something that every homeowner dreads. Depending on the severity of the leak, it can waste thousands of gallons of water per year and greatly increase your water bill. If you are in this situation, it is important for you to identify the source of the leak and fix it immediately.
In this article, we will shed light on the ways to fix leaking outside taps. Read on to learn more.
How To Fix A Leaking Outside Tap
Start by turning off the water supply to the leaking faucet. Next, open the faucet to release any residual water. Once the water has stopped flowing, you can proceed to the following steps:
- Remove the aerator if there is one. An aerator is usually located at the tip of the faucet and can be removed by unscrewing it.
- Check the washer. The washer is a rubber gasket that creates a seal between the faucet and the aerator. If the washer is worn or damaged, it can cause a leak. Replace the washer if it is damaged.
- Check the O-rings. O-rings are rubber gaskets that create a seal between the faucet and the handle. If the O-rings are worn or damaged, they can cause a leak. Replace the O-rings if they are damaged.
- Check the packing nut. The packing nut is a nut that holds the faucet handle in place. If the packing nut is loose or damaged, it can cause a leak.
- Tighten the packing nut. If the packing nut is loose, you can tighten it using a wrench.
- Replace the handle. If the handle is damaged, you can replace it with a new one.
