Is Your Outdoor Spigot Leaking?

by J&J on July 18, 2025

Whether you're watering the garden, washing the car, or filling up the kiddie pool, your outdoor spigot (aka hose bib) works overtime in the summer. But if you've noticed water dripping after you shut it off - or worse, constant leaking - it's more than an annoyance. It could be a sign of deeper plumbing trouble.

At J&J Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Electric, we help Northeast Ohio homeowners identify and fix outdoor plumbing issues before they become costly. Here's what that leaking spigot might be trying to tell you.

Common Causes of a Leaking Outdoor Spigot

1. Worn Washer or Gasket

Over time, washers wear down from constant use and exposure to weather. This is one of the most common and easily fixable causes of a leaky spigot.

2. Loose Packing Nut

Located behind the spigot handle, this nut can come loose and cause dripping. Tightening it with a wrench can sometimes stop the leak - but over-tightening can cause more damage.

3. Cracked Spigot Body

If your spigot froze over winter and wasn't properly shut off or drained, it may have cracked. Water may still flow, but leaks will appear when the system is under pressure.

4. Backflow Preventer Malfunction

Some modern spigots include backflow prevention to stop water from flowing back into your home's supply. A failed backflow valve can leak persistently.

5. Corroded or Damaged Hose Bib

Years of exposure can rust or degrade the entire fixture. In this case, full replacement is often the best solution.

Why You Shouldn't Ignore It

Even small leaks can waste hundreds of gallons of water over the course of a summer. Worse, water dripping near your foundation can lead to:

• Mold or mildew near the house
• Structural damage from soil erosion
• Foundation cracks and basement leaks

Explore our latest customer reviews to see why we're the go-to choice for plumbing services in Northeast Ohio.

When to Call a Professional

If tightening the packing nut or replacing a washer doesn't solve the issue - or if you're dealing with visible corrosion or cracking - it's time to call in the pros.

At J&J Plumbing, we:

• Inspect your spigot and supply line for internal and external damage
• Safely replace hose bibs with frost-free, durable models
• Check for additional water pressure or plumbing issues affecting your home

Protect Your Home Before Summer Ends

A leaky outdoor spigot may seem minor, but it can signal bigger plumbing issues waiting to surface. Let J&J Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Electric help you enjoy a worry-free summer.

Our experts can handle more than just water line problems too! We also offer top-quality gas leak detection and repair.