Aaron Stickley is a certified plumber boasting 15 years of expertise in commercial plumbing, new residential installations, and residential service and repairs. He has launched his own plumbing business focused on residential service and repairs. Over the past four years, Aaron has contributed numerous articles on plumbing.
Project Summary
- Overall Duration: 30 to 45 minutes
- Proficiency Level: Novice
Although the majority of indoor faucets today operate with cartridge mechanisms, outdoor faucets, known as hose bibs, typically employ a traditional compression-style design when connected to garden hoses. Hose bibs feature multiple layers of waterproof packing string beneath their packing nuts, but leaks can still occur from the stem or the handle. Fortunately, repairing a leaking hose bib is a straightforward task.
What is a Hose Faucet?
A hose bib is an exterior tap that regulates water flow through a threaded stem equipped with a rubber or neoprene washer at its tip. This washer presses against an opening in a metal valve seat. The faucet’s handle is connected to the inner stem, allowing it to be raised or lowered to manage the water flow.
To repair leaking hose bibs, you can replace the compression washers or packing string, or simply tighten any loose packing nuts. Installing a new washer will ensure the faucet closes completely, while a new packing string will stop water from leaking around the handle.
By following the straightforward steps outlined below, you can swap out both components and fix a dripping hose bib in less than an hour.
Requirements
Devices / Instruments
- Slip-joint pliers or a crescent wrench
- Screwdriver
Materials
- Variety of faucet washers
- Graphite sealing cord, also known as a bonnet gasket.
Instructions
When following the instructions provided, be sure to handle the hose with caution, especially during the removal of components. It’s important to avoid loosening or damaging any pipes located downstream of your work area.
Turn off the water supply.
Begin by shutting off the water supply to the hose bib through its shutoff valve, which is typically located inside the home. To close the valve, rotate the handle completely in a clockwise direction. If the shutoff valve for the hose bib is not accessible, you can turn off the water supply to the entire house at the main valve.
Take off the handle.
Utilize a screwdriver to take out the screw that secures the hose bib handle to the valve stem. Gently pull the handle away (some twisting might be necessary), and place both the handle and screw aside with care.
Remove the Packing Nut.
Then, utilize channel-lock pliers or an adjustable wrench to remove the packing nut, also known as the bonnet nut, that connects the valve stem to the faucet assembly.
Take out the valve stem.
Remove the valve stem from the faucet assembly. For certain types of hose bibs, you might have to turn it clockwise to detach it, instead of the usual counterclockwise motion that typically loosens a screw.
Change the Stem Washer.
Inspect the rubber or neoprene gasket located at the tip of the valve stem. If you observe that it has become hard, cracked, or misshapen, it should be replaced. Gently remove the brass screw that secures the gasket to the stem, and then install a precise replacement for the old gasket.
Tip
Brass is a malleable metal that requires careful handling. In case the brass screw gets damaged while working, the new washer should include a replacement.
Substitute the Packing String
Remove the old graphite or Teflon packing string from the valve stem located beneath the packing nut. While observing the stem from above, wrap several turns of new string in the same area, moving in a clockwise direction. Alternatively, you may choose to use a fiber packing washer.
Put the faucet back together.
Reinsert the valve stem into the faucet body and screw the packing nut onto the top. Use a wrench to gently tighten the packing nut. Next, reattach the faucet handle and test the faucet to ensure it operates correctly. Be cautious not to overtighten the packing nut, as this may cause the handle to become difficult to turn. If everything is done properly, you should notice the washer compressing against the valve seat as the handle moves smoothly.
Evaluate the Tap
Restore the water supply and test the faucet’s functionality, looking for any signs of leakage. If you notice any dripping around the handle, try tightening the packing nut a bit more.
When to Change a Hose Bib
In certain situations, it may be more effective to completely replace the hose bib or frost-proof wall hydrant. While many leaking hose bibs can be fixed with the aforementioned methods, older faucets may exhibit issues such as cracks in the body, significant valve seat damage, corrosion, weather-related harm, or the accumulation of rust, minerals, or mold. If there are visible indications of wear or damage, it’s advisable to consider a replacement.
What is the price for replacing a hose bib?
When you engage a professional for hose bib replacement, you can expect to pay between $100 and $200. On the other hand, if you possess some plumbing skills and opt for a do-it-yourself approach, the materials will typically set you back around $10 to $50.
What is the most effective lubricant for the threads of outdoor hoses?
A lubricant made from silicone is the optimal option for outdoor hose connections. Silicone is a water-resistant substance that effectively prevents corrosion and the accumulation of dirt, which can commonly happen in a garden environment.
Is it possible to use tape to repair a water hose that is leaking?
Certainly! You can utilize softly wrapped electrical tape, duct tape, or tape specifically made for hose repairs to mend a leak or puncture in a hose.
