
Fixing a leaky hose bib almost always involves one (or both) of two things:
- Replacing the compression washer at the end of the inner valve stem. This will allow the stem to fully close down against the valve seat, keeping the hose bib from constantly dripping.
- Replacing the packing string that is wrapped around the valve stem under the packing nut. This will prevent water from seeping up around the handle each time you use the faucet.
- Shut off the Water. Begin by shutting off the water to the hose bib. ...
- Remove the Handle. ...
- Unscrew the Packing Nut. ...
- Remove the Valve Stem. ...
- Replace the Stem Washer. ...
- Replace the Packing String. ...
- Reassemble the Faucet. ...
- Test the Faucet.
How do you fix a leaky faucet hose bib?
Remove the screw on the valve stem holding the faucet washer. Replace the washer with one of the same size and thickness. Push the valve stem back into the hose bibb housing. Tighten the packing nut on the hose bibb until snug. Use the cut-off key to turn the water back on at the meter. Turn the spigot back on to remove any air from the line.
How do you stop a hose bib from dripping?
This will allow the stem to fully close down against the valve seat, keeping the hose bib from constantly dripping. Replacing the packing string that is wrapped around the valve stem under the packing nut. This will prevent water from seeping up around the handle each time you use the faucet.
How do you fix a broken hose Bibb on a washing machine?
Replace the washer with one of the same size and thickness. Push the valve stem back into the hose bibb housing. Tighten the packing nut on the hose bibb until snug. Use the cut-off key to turn the water back on at the meter. Turn the spigot back on to remove any air from the line.
How do I replace the valve on my bibs?
Use a pair of needlenose pliers to remove any of the packing material inside of the valve. This is usually present on older bibs. Newer ones will utilize a rubber o-ring. Pull out the valve stem with the pliers. Remove the old washer at the end of the valve stem by first unscrewing the screw holding it in place.

How do I fix my old hose bib?
How to Fix a Leaky Hose BibTurn off the water supply. Before replacing the packing washer, turn off the water supply. ... Remove the handle assembly. ... Remove the packing screw inside the handle assembly. ... Replace the packing washer and screw. ... Reassemble the faucet handle and tighten the packing nut. ... Restore the water supply.
How do you replace a valve stem on an outside faucet?
0:342:54How to Fix a Leaky Outdoor Faucet that has a Frost-Free Valve StemYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipUse a wrench to loosen the nut and take out the washer. Take the old washer to a plumbing supplyMoreUse a wrench to loosen the nut and take out the washer. Take the old washer to a plumbing supply store to make sure you're replacing it with the right one.
How do I stop my hose spout from leaking?
1:065:13How to Fix a Leaky Hose Spigot | Ask This Old House - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipSo many times you can just tighten up tighten up this top nut which thereby compresses that bonnetMoreSo many times you can just tighten up tighten up this top nut which thereby compresses that bonnet again to have it stop leaking out from here right but sometimes that's not enough it's just so worn.
How do you replace a bib valve?
0:096:51Replacing a Leaky Hose Bibb - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipToday we're going to show you how to take off the hose bill and replace it with a new. One. We'reMoreToday we're going to show you how to take off the hose bill and replace it with a new. One. We're gonna replace this hose bib. Because as you can see it's leaking.
How do you install an outdoor faucet stem?
0:061:12Quick Fix: How To Replace an Outdoor Hose Spigot - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipThe threads clean off any corrosion or leftover pipe dope using a stiff bristled brush wrap theMoreThe threads clean off any corrosion or leftover pipe dope using a stiff bristled brush wrap the exposed threads with thread seal tape screw on the new spigot until it is seated on the threads.
How do you fix a leaking outdoor bib?
InstructionsShut off the Water. Begin by shutting off the water to the hose bib. ... Remove the Handle. ... Unscrew the Packing Nut. ... Remove the Valve Stem. ... Replace the Stem Washer. ... Replace the Packing String. ... Reassemble the Faucet. ... Test the Faucet.
How do you fix a leaky hose bib valve?
2:213:00How To Fix A Leaky Hose Bib | RYCO Plumbing DIY - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipIf you just tighten this nut. Just a little bit until the water stops. And that tighten compressesMoreIf you just tighten this nut. Just a little bit until the water stops. And that tighten compresses the packing in there that stops the water from coming traveling up the stem.
Why does my spigot leak when hose is attached?
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.
Why does my outdoor hose bib leak?
Outdoor spigot leaks are often due to worn-out washers. Besides wear and tear of the washers and packing around the handle, other causes of outdoor faucet leaks can include damaged, frozen or clogged pipes. Pipes can become clogged over time due to mineral deposits and other buildup.
Do you need a plumber to replace outdoor spigot?
As you can see, replacing an outdoor faucet is a serious plumbing task, not just a quick handyman job. It's a good idea to hire a licensed, bonded and insured plumber for the work, which will take an average of one to two hours unless there are complications.
Can I replace an outdoor spigot myself?
Replacing an Outdoor Water Spigot At one point or another, you are going to have to replace an outside hose spigot. Luckily, this project requires just a few simple tools and a bit of gumption. You should be able to knock this out in no time at all.
How much does it cost to replace a hose bib?
To do a basic hose bibb replacement yourself, the total cost will be $20 to $50, depending on the type of bibb you install. For a professional installation, you'll also need to pay labor costs. Assuming there's no pipe damage, installing a new hose bibb costs $120 to $300 on average.
How do I install a new faucet stem?
5:338:06How do I replace the stem in my double handle faucet? Part 3YouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipWe're going to push it in put this over your stem push down on the stem. Make sure it's seated inMoreWe're going to push it in put this over your stem push down on the stem. Make sure it's seated in these two two slots on each side. Hold down on the stem. Tighten up your nut.
How do you remove a spigot stem?
1:035:29Faucet stem repair and replacement - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipIf you have a brass stem you'll need to remove this by using a wrench and rotating it in the onMoreIf you have a brass stem you'll need to remove this by using a wrench and rotating it in the on direction until it threads out entirely.
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 do you remove the stem from a frost free faucet?
0:152:55Frost Free Faucet Repair - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipYou may notice it will stick. And will need to be gently worked out with a small flat-headMoreYou may notice it will stick. And will need to be gently worked out with a small flat-head screwdriver. Work around the outer diameter of the packing material. Until it dislodges.
How to shut off water to hose bib?
Usually, you will find a shutoff valve inside the house, controlling the water flow to the outdoor hose bib. Close this valve by turning the handle fully in the clockwise direction. If your hose bib does not have a shutoff valve, you can shut off the water supply to the entire house.
Where to replace compression washer on hose bib?
Replacing the compression washer at the end of the inner valve stem. This will allow the stem to fully close down against the valve seat, keeping the hose bib from constantly dripping.
When working with a hose, do you always hold the hose?
When following the directions below, take care to always hold the hose carefully when working, particularly when removing parts. You don't want to loosen or even break piping downstream of where you're working.
How to wrap a valve string?
Unwrap the old graphite or Teflon packing string from around the valve stem beneath the packing nut, then wrap several loops of new strong around the stem in a clockwise direction ( as you look down at the stem from above). Alternately, you can use a fiber packing washer, which serves the same function as packing string. Larger washer kits usually include an assortment of packing washers.
How long does it take to fix a hose bib?from plumbuniversity.com
Fixing a leaking hose bib can be done in less than an hour with a few basic hand tools. It’s generally best to address both possible causes for leaky lawn services since you will have access to the stem washer and the handle packing material at the same time.
How to put a hose bib back together?from plumbuniversity.com
It’s time to put the hose bib back together. Start by threading the valve stem into the hose bib valve body. Once the valve stem is in place, spin on the packing nut and tighten it firmly, but not too tight, with an adjustable wrench. If you tighten the packing nut too much the handle will be stiff and difficult to turn.
What is a Hose Bib?from plumbuniversity.com
A hose bib is another name for a faucet. However, this special kind of faucet has a threaded spout, which allows it to connect to hoses for a garden, washing machine, or another device.
What happens if a hose bib freezes?from plumbuniversity.com
Any water that is trapped at the hose connection could split the hose bib or ruin the garden hose when it freezes.
What to do if a faucet leaks from the spigot?from plumbuniversity.com
In the rare circumstance that the faucet still leaks from the spigot after replacing the valve stem washer, you may need to use a reseating tool like the one shown in the video below. This tool will remove a little of the brass material from the valve body so that your hose bib makes a perfect watertight seal. Done!
What to do if hose bib valve doesn't work?from plumbuniversity.com
If closing the hose bib valve completely does not work or you don’t have a separate shut-off valve, you can turn OFF the water supply to the entire house instead .
What to do if hose bib is dripping from faucet?from plumbuniversity.com
If your hose bib is continually dripping from the spout even if the faucet is closed, you are looking at replacing the compression washer at the end of the valve stem. Compression washers can wear over time and can develop small tears or cuts that let a small amount of water leak by.
What to use to cover a hose bib when removing packing nut?
If you're worried about scratching up the hose bib when removing the packing nut, you can cover your pliers or wrench with duct tape.
What is a hose bib?
The hose bib or spigot is the part of your outside hose connection that allows you to turn the water on or off for outdoor connected hoses such as a sprayer hose or soaker. Because these hose bibs are located outside, they are exposed to the elements and can be damaged by severe weather such as a hard freeze. ...
How to clean a valve stem?
Use a stiff wire brush to clean off the stem and remove any debris or foreign objects. Squeeze a few drops of silicon grease or lubricant on the valve stem.
How to remove packing material from bib?
Use a pair of needlenose pliers to remove any of the packing material inside of the valve. This is usually present on older bibs. Newer ones will utilize a rubber o-ring.
How long does it take to fix a hose bib?
Fixing a leaking hose bib can be done in less than an hour with a few basic hand tools. It’s generally best to address both possible causes for leaky lawn services since you will have access to the stem washer and the handle packing material at the same time.
How to put a hose bib back together?
It’s time to put the hose bib back together. Start by threading the valve stem into the hose bib valve body. Once the valve stem is in place, spin on the packing nut and tighten it firmly, but not too tight, with an adjustable wrench. If you tighten the packing nut too much the handle will be stiff and difficult to turn.
How Does A Hose Bib Work?
Hose bibs are connected to your home’s main water supply where there is typically a separate shut off valve to isolate the exterior faucets. This valve can be found in your basement, mechanical room, or in the ceiling space below the hose bib.
What to do if hose bib is dripping from faucet?
If your hose bib is continually dripping from the spout even if the faucet is closed, you are looking at replacing the compression washer at the end of the valve stem. Compression washers can wear over time and can develop small tears or cuts that let a small amount of water leak by.
What is a hose bib?
While most faucets inside your home use cartridge-style mechanisms to control the flow of water, hose bibs utilize an old-school compression-style design. A cast brass body faucet with a wheel or handle that you spin counterclockwise to open and clockwise to close.
Why is water seeping out of valve stem?
Water seeping out from around the valve stem calls for replacing the packing material that is around the valve stem packing nut. Packing material wears out with use and temperature change, causing it to relax and loosen up. A few wraps of packing string will stop leaking from around the hose bib handle when you use the faucet.
How much does it cost to replace a hose bib?
In this scenario, a complete hose bib replacement is required. This can cost you anywhere between $100 and $300.
What to do if hose bib is broken?
The best thing to do in that case is to simply replace the hose bibb itself.
How to get water back on a hose bib?
Push the valve stem back into the hose bibb housing. Tighten the packing nut on the hose bibb until snug. Use the cut-off key to turn the water back on at the meter. Turn the spigot back on to remove any air from the line. Check for leaks around the packing nut on the valve stem. Turn the faucet off and check the spigot for leaks.
Where to check for leaks in valve stem?
Check for leaks around the packing nut on the valve stem.
How long does it take to tighten a packing nut?
And number three, in most cases all it’s going to take is about 30 seconds of your time and a pair of adjustable pliers, cause all you need to do is tighten the packing nut that’s right behind the handle. About a quarter to an eighth turn is all it takes.
How to remove a hose bib?from doityourself.com
Step 2: Remove the Hose Bib 1 Copper: place the flame shield between the copper pipe and the part of the home that would be exposed to the torch flame. Turn on and ignite the torch and heat the solder to remove the bad pipe. Once the solder is soft use the pipe wrench to work the pipe out. 2 PVC: Use the pipe wrench to turn the hose bib counterclockwise and release it from the PVC pipe. Pull out the fitting once it has been loosened.
How to remove a hose bib from PVC pipe?from doityourself.com
PVC: Use the pipe wrench to turn the hose bib counterclockwise and release it from the PVC pipe. Pull out the fitting once it has been loosened.
Why is my hose bib leaking?from plumbinglab.com
Leaking hose bibb. One of the more common issues is a leaking bib. Typically, this is caused by the shutoff valve not closing entirely. If there is a small opening, water pressure can force a small bit through. Leaking hose bibbs can be an easy or a difficult fix, depending on the underlying cause.
What is a knobbed hose bib?from plumbinglab.com
A knobbed hose bibb is similar to a round plastic bibb in that it is often found on water heaters. The main difference is that knobbed hose bibs are made from metal, and they have a special cinch that needs a wrench to loosen.
What does it mean when a bibb is broken?from plumbinglab.com
Bibb handles make contact with water and so can rust and break over time. A broken handle means that the bibb can get stuck in the on or off position. Sometimes the bibb gets broken, and other times it is just not tight enough to completely close the shutoff valve.
What is a loose key hose bibb?from plumbinglab.com
A “loose key” bibb allows you to take off the handle of the bibb so it cannot be used. This is a good option if you want to control who has access to your hose if you need to conserve water usage. Knobbed hose bibb. A knobbed hose bibb is similar to a round plastic bibb in that it is often found on water heaters.
How to check bibb water flow?from plumbinglab.com
Inspecting your bibb is as simple as making sure it is properly shutting off and allowing water through. Once you turn the water line back on, turn the spigots handle fully on to test the water flow . Then turn it off and look for any leaks in the spigot or on the wall near the hose.
