Summer is here, and with the warmer weather comes increased water use for gardening, washing cars, and filling pools. If you notice an outdoor water spigot leaking, it can quickly turn into a bigger problem, wasting water and potentially causing damage to your home’s exterior. You may be asking yourself, “Do I need a plumber to replace an outdoor spigot, or can I handle the repair myself?
Before making a decision, it’s helpful to understand the common causes of leaks, signs that indicate a replacement is necessary, and whether it’s safe or wise to DIY the repair.
Signs You Need to Replace Your Outdoor Spigot
A few key indicators suggest your outdoor spigot might need a full replacement rather than a simple fix:
- Persistent leaks even after tightening connections: If you keep tightening the handle or fittings, but water still drips or leaks, this is often a sign that the spigot’s internal parts or body are compromised.
- Rust, corrosion, or visible cracks on the spigot body: Exposure to the elements can cause metal parts to corrode or crack, weakening the spigot’s structure.
- Difficulty turning the handle, or the handle won’t fully close: When the handle becomes stiff or loose and won’t fully shut off the water, it often means internal components are worn or broken.
- Water pooling around the base despite turning off the faucet: If you see puddles or wet soil near the spigot after it’s supposed to be off, this indicates a leak that needs immediate attention.
If you notice any of these signs, it’s best not to delay repairs. A leaking or damaged outdoor spigot wastes water and can eventually damage your home’s foundation or landscaping.
Common Causes of Outdoor Spigot Leaking
Leaks can develop for several reasons, especially as an outdoor plumbing system ages or faces harsh weather conditions:
- Worn-out washers or seals inside the spigot: These small parts are prone to wear over time and, if damaged, often cause dripping.
- Corrosion from exposure to the elements: Constant contact with moisture, sun, and temperature fluctuations can eat away at metal spigots.
- Freezing and thawing cycles cause cracks or breaks: In colder climates, water inside the spigot can freeze and expand, causing the fixture to crack.
- Loose or damaged connections: Sometimes the leak is not from the spigot itself but from the pipe connection behind it.
Understanding the root cause can help you decide if a simple repair, such as replacing washers or tightening fittings, will suffice or if a full replacement is required.
Outdoor Plumbing Repairs: DIY or Call a Plumber?
Deciding whether to tackle an outdoor plumbing issue yourself or call a plumber depends on three key factors: the complexity of the fix, the risk of causing additional damage if something goes wrong, and your own plumbing knowledge and skills.
For example, minor repairs like replacing washers, tightening fittings, or even lubricating the handle can sometimes be straightforward for those with basic plumbing skills. However, if the spigot shows signs of corrosion, cracking, or persistent leaks that won’t stop despite simple fixes, calling a professional plumber is the safest and most effective choice. Attempting to replace a spigot without the right tools or experience can lead to further damage or leaks inside your outdoor plumbing system.
Plus, with summer’s high water usage, even small leaks can waste a surprising amount of water, increasing your utility bills and harming the environment. Prompt repairs help conserve water in your yard or garden and prevent costly damage to your home’s foundation or landscaping.
Other Areas to Check for Water Leaks
While you're checking for issues outside, you might want to take a moment to look for common indoor leaks too, like a tub faucet that drips, moisture collecting under a bathroom sink, or a slow leak near the washing machine hookup. Catching these early can help prevent more involved repairs down the line.
How Ken’s Plumbing Can Help with Your Outdoor Plumbing Needs
At Ken’s Plumbing, we specialize in outdoor plumbing repairs and replacements. Whether you have a leaking outdoor spigot or need a full replacement, our experienced plumbers provide fast, reliable service to keep your home running smoothly this summer.
We offer expert water leak repair services and are ready to help you tackle any plumbing challenge. Schedule a service today or call us at (864) 756-9947. Don’t let a leaking outdoor spigot disrupt your summer plans.
.png)