Outdoor faucet dripping
Answer: call a plumber.
An outdoor faucet (hose bib) that drips wastes hundreds of gallons per month and can cause serious damage. In warm months the water pools near the foundation, promoting erosion and basement moisture. In cold months even a slow drip can freeze and burst the pipe inside the wall — one of the most expensive plumbing failures a homeowner can face. Common causes include a worn washer, corroded valve seat, failed packing nut, or a frost-proof sillcock that wasn't fully closed. A plumber can replace the internal components in under an hour or upgrade the entire hose bib to a modern frost-proof model for long-term protection.
Who to call
For this problem, call a: Plumber
Symptoms to look for
- Steady drip from the spout even when the handle is fully closed
- Water seeping from around the handle or packing nut
- Puddle forming on the ground below the hose bib
- Green algae or mineral stains on the wall below the faucet
- Handle is stiff, hard to turn, or spins without shutting off the water