A leaky outdoor faucet isn’t just messy; it wastes water. Fixing a leaky faucet isn’t difficult. The culprit is typically a worn washer, something you can replace on your own in about an hour.
Here’s what you’ll need for this quick, inexpensive project.
TOOLS & MATERIALS
- Adjustable Wrench
- Screwdriver
- Packing Nut Washer
When taking on this DIY task, be sure to equip yourself with the proper safety gear. We’ll let you know throughout the video when you should and should not use the safety gear.
STEP ONE
Turn off the water supply. Before you begin your repair, turn off your home’s water supply. The main shut-off valve is most likely located in your basement or utility room.
STEP TWO
Drain the faucet. Drain the faucet by turning the handle counterclockwise. Allow it to drain completely before starting your repair.
STEP THREE
loosen faucet handle. Loosen the faucet handle by gripping it while removing the nut and screw holding it in place.
STEP FOUR
Remove valve assembly. Use an adjustable wrench to turn the packing nut on top of the faucet counterclockwise until you can easily remove the handle and assembly.
STEP FIVE
Replace packing washer. Unscrew the packing washer, then pry it out with a small flathead screwdriver. Insert the new washer and fasten it.
STEP SIX
Reassemble the faucet. Tighten the packing nut onto the faucet body with an adjustable wrench. Be sure not to over-tighten, as this can damage the faucet.
STEP SEVEN
Turn on the water supply. Restore the water supply and turn the faucet on and off a couple times to test your repair. You may hear some trapped air escape first before any water comes out.
Your repair is complete.
I’m wore out after reading about everything. All I needed to know wasn’t found! To stop leaking on the hot water heater at the valve drainage part which is dripping and it’s a electric one and the valve is plastic. This is just a quick fix until I get someone to fix it. I wanted to know what the achieve is that will work due to the water.
Charlotte, if this is truly the drain valve at the bottom of the tank – which has a garden hose-type thread on it, you can simply pick up a cap and rubbed washer at any hardware store (its not worth fixing the valve, just cap it – you can uncap it if it become necessary to drain the tank in the future). However, please make sure this is NOT the “Pressure Reliefe Valve”. If that leaks, it CAN NOT be capped as it’d defeat the purpose and could result in a dangerous condition.