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Quick Answer
A broken outdoor tap (or hose bibb) is almost always a worn washer at the end of the spindle. Shut off the indoor isolation valve, unscrew the packing nut, pull the spindle out, replace the washer, then reassemble. For frost-damaged or split body taps, the entire tap must be replaced. Always insulate outdoor taps before winter to prevent freeze damage.
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Save to PinterestA broken or dripping outdoor tap is a problem worth fixing quickly. Beyond the steady waste of water, a faulty outside tap can let water seep into walls or freeze and burst in cold weather. The good news is that most outdoor tap repairs are simple, inexpensive jobs you can complete yourself in well under an hour.
This guide explains how to fix the most common outdoor tap problems, from a dripping spout to a leaking handle or a tap that won’t turn off, with clear step-by-step instructions.
Quick answer
Start by diagnosing the cause before replacing parts. For How to Fix a Broken Outdoor Tap, the safest path is to inspect the obvious failure point first, try the lowest-risk fix, then escalate only if the problem returns or involves water, wiring, structure or security.
Best first steps
- Confirm the symptom and when it happens.
- Check the easiest visible cause first.
- Use the least destructive repair before replacing parts.
- Test the fix slowly and watch for repeat failure.
- Stop if the repair involves safety, water, electricity or structural support.
Why Outdoor Taps Leak or Break
Outdoor taps are exposed to weather and used hard, so they wear out in predictable ways:
- Worn washer: A perished rubber washer inside the tap is the most common cause of a constant drip from the spout.
- Failed O-ring or gland packing: Worn seals around the spindle let water leak from the handle when the tap is on.
- Freeze damage: Water left in the tap over winter can freeze, expand, and crack the body.
- Loose connections: The joint where the tap meets the pipe can work loose and weep over time.
Tools and Materials You Will Need
- Adjustable wrench or spanner
- Screwdriver
- Replacement washers and O-rings
- PTFE (plumber’s) tape
- Old cloth
- Penetrating oil (for stuck fittings)
Step-by-Step: How to Fix an Outdoor Tap
Step 1: Turn Off the Water Supply
Find the isolation valve that feeds the outdoor tap, usually inside the house, and turn it off. Then open the tap to drain any remaining water and relieve pressure.
Step 2: Dismantle the Tap
Unscrew the tap headgear using a wrench. Hold the tap body steady so you don’t strain the pipe behind it. Lift out the spindle to expose the washer and seals.
Step 3: Replace the Washer
Remove the old washer from the bottom of the spindle and fit an exact-match replacement. This alone cures most drips from the spout.
Step 4: Replace O-rings and Re-tape
If water leaks from the handle, replace the O-ring or gland packing around the spindle. Wrap fresh PTFE tape around any threaded joints to ensure a watertight seal.
Step 5: Reassemble and Test
Reassemble the tap in reverse order, turn the water supply back on slowly, and test. Check both the spout and the handle for any remaining leaks.
Pro Tips to Prevent This Problem
- In cold climates, fit an insulated tap cover or drain the outdoor tap before winter to prevent freeze damage.
- Keep spare washers and O-rings on hand; they are cheap and the usual fix.
- Wrap PTFE tape clockwise around threads so it doesn’t unravel as you tighten.
When to Call a Professional
Call a plumber if the tap body itself is cracked from frost, if the connecting pipework is corroded, or if you can’t locate or close the isolation valve. Frost-burst pipes in particular need prompt professional attention.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does my outdoor tap keep dripping?
A worn washer inside the tap is almost always the cause. Replacing this inexpensive part usually stops the drip completely.
How do I stop my outdoor tap freezing in winter?
Drain it before the cold sets in and fit an insulated tap cover. An isolation valve indoors lets you shut off and drain the supply easily.
Water leaks from the handle, not the spout, why?
That points to a worn O-ring or gland packing around the spindle. Replacing the seal and adding PTFE tape stops the leak.
Final Thoughts
A leaking or broken outdoor tap is usually fixed with nothing more than a new washer, fresh seals, and a little PTFE tape. Shut off the supply, swap the worn parts, and reassemble, and your tap will be watertight again. Take a moment to protect it before winter and you will avoid the far bigger problem of a frost-burst pipe.
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