Caleb MorganBy Caleb Morgan

Updated November 2026

Learning how to repair a dripping outdoor faucet usually takes less than an hour and a basic set of hand tools. In most cases, the drip comes from a worn rubber washer or a damaged valve seat at the base of the stem. Replacing those parts restores a tight seal and stops the water from running out the spout when the handle is closed.

Shut Off the Water and Check the Cause

Before you take anything apart, turn off the water supply. Most outdoor faucets have a dedicated shutoff valve inside the house or in a basement wall. Once it is closed, open the outdoor faucet to drain the remaining water. Then confirm where the drip starts: a steady drip from the spout usually points to the washer, while water leaking from the handle or around the packing nut points to the packing or O-ring.

Shopping for one? See our guide: Dripping Outdoor Faucet Repair: 6 Best Kits Compared (2026).

Remove the Stem and Replace the Washer

Once the line is drained, work through these steps:

  1. Remove the handle screw and lift off the handle.
  2. Unscrew the packing nut with an adjustable wrench, then pull out the stem assembly.
  3. Remove the brass screw at the bottom of the stem and replace the rubber washer. Use a washer of the same size and shape.
  4. Check the valve seat inside the faucet body. If it is pitted or rough, smooth it with a seat-dressing tool or replace it.
  5. Coat the new washer and any O-rings with plumber’s grease, then reassemble in reverse order.

Tools and Supplies You Will Need

  • Adjustable wrench or channel-lock pliers
  • Flathead and Phillips screwdrivers
  • Replacement rubber washer and, if needed, O-rings
  • Seat-dressing tool or replacement valve seat
  • Plumber’s grease

Restore Water Flow and Test the Repair

Turn the water supply back on slowly. Open the outdoor faucet fully, then close it. Watch for air bursts or sputtering, which are normal after a repair, and confirm that the spout stays dry once the handle is shut. If water still seeps out, the washer may be seated incorrectly or the valve seat may still be damaged. Manufacturers generally recommend tightening the packing nut only until the leak stops, since overtightening can crack the stem or make the handle hard to turn.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Skipping the shutoff step, which lets water spray during disassembly.
  • Using a washer that looks similar but has the wrong diameter or thickness.
  • Forgetting plumber’s grease, which can make the new washer wear faster.
  • Overtightening the packing nut, which can damage the threads.
  • Ignoring a cracked faucet body, since a repair will not fix it.
  • Assorted faucet washer set: Lets you match the washer size without guessing. View on Amazon
  • Plumber’s grease: Keeps the washer and O-rings sealing smoothly after reassembly. View on Amazon
  • Valve seat dressing tool: Smooths a rough seat so the new washer can seal properly. View on Amazon

FAQ

Do I need to turn off the water to fix a dripping outdoor faucet?

Yes. Closing the shutoff valve and draining the faucet prevents water from spraying during disassembly. Without this step, the repair becomes messy and harder to control.

How do I know if the washer or the valve seat is the problem?

A worn washer usually causes a steady drip from the spout, while a damaged valve seat can allow leaks even with a new washer. Inspect the seat after removing the stem, and resurface or replace it if it looks pitted.

When should I call a plumber instead?

Call a licensed plumber if the faucet body is cracked, the water supply valve will not shut off, or the leak continues after a full repair. Those problems usually require professional tools or replacement parts beyond a basic repair.

Conclusion

Repairing a dripping outdoor faucet comes down to shutting off the water, replacing the worn washer, and checking the valve seat. With the right parts and a careful reassembly, most leaks stop on the first try. Keep the grease and spare washers on hand so the next repair goes even faster.

Ready to choose one?

Caleb Morgan

About Caleb Morgan

Caleb Morgan is part of our editorial team and reviews and edits our kitchen faucets & sinks guides, checking product details against manufacturer specifications and owner feedback.