How to Fix a Leaky Hose Bib (Surprise…it Takes Just 8 Steps!)

At one time or another, every homeowner has wondered how to fix a leaky hose bib. I mean, it seems every summer one of our outdoor faucets is leaking. But we usually call a plumber.

Here’s how to handle it yourself if you notice a concerning leak.

What is a Hose Bib?

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.

Because the hose bib “taps” into the indoor water supply, it’s also often referred to as a tap. Regardless of what you call it, or where it’s located, the hose bib is an essential part of your plumbing system because it allows you to connect a hose to your water supply wherever it’s needed.

Tools & Materials to Fix a Leaky Hose Bib

The only tools you need are a screwdriver and an adjustable wrench. You also will need the following materials, which can be purchased at any hardware store.

  • Replacement packing washer (or packing string depending on your hose bib)
  • Replacement stem washer
  • Replacement stem screw

How to Fix a Leaky Hose Bib in 8 Steps

If your hose bib is leaking from the handle, try tightening the packing nut before replacing the washers. Here’s how to handle a repair:

  1. Turn off the water supply valve (water shutoff valve) to the hose bib. It will be located inside the hose near the wall where the hose bib is attached. If you can’t find the specific valve shutoff for the hose bib, turn off all the water to your hose at the main shutoff valve.
  2. Remove the handle screw with a screwdriver. Lift the handle straight out and off.
  3. Using an adjustable wrench, remove the packing nut by turning it counterclockwise and lift out.
  4. Take the stem assembly and the packing nut (also called a bonnet) to the hardware store. Ask a salesperson to help you find the correct replacement for the packing — either a packing washer or packing string — and the stem washer and screw.
  5. Replace the stem washer and screw in the stem assembly.
  6. Insert the new packing washer and the old packing ring into the packing nut. Then insert the stem. Important: If the packing nut contains packing instead of a washer, dig it out, insert the stem into the nut, and wind new packing string around the stem until the cavity in the nut is nearly full.
  7. Insert the stem assembly into the faucet body and tighten the packing nut. Replace the handle and turn it off.
  8. Turn the water supply valve back on. If the bib still leaks, tighten the packing nut further.
Watch this for a visual description of all the parts you can change out in order to stop your leaking hose bib. This video can also be seen on YouTube here.

Final Thoughts

It might seem intimidating to learn how to fix a leaky hose bib. But once you do it, you’ll realize how easy it actually is.

Since you’re not completely familiar with the parts, one trick is to number the parts in the order you remove them. Then you can just work in reverse when you’re putting everything back together.

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Call 1-Tom-Plumber

Don’t hesitate to contact us here or call us at 1-Tom-Plumber (1-866-758-6237) if you need help repair or replacing a leaky hose bib.

1-Tom-Plumber’s certified team of plumbers and drain technicians respond immediately to any emergency plumbing, drain cleaning, or water damage problem. We also handle the excavation of underground water lines and sewer main lines. Our immediate-response team is available every day and night of the year, even on holidays.

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