How to Fix a Water Spigot

Fixing a spigot can make a major difference in how much you pay for water every month. A leaky spigot can waste a significant amount of water and ratchet up your water bill with it. Gather together a few basic tools -- screwdriver and wrench, for instance -- to inspect and repair a shoddy spigot. Detach the spigot and inspect it properly to identify the issue and repair it fast. Consulting a professional plumber is a wise idea if the problem persists.

Screwdriver
Wrench
Spigot cap
Sillcock nut
Washer

Instructions

- 1
  Turn off the water on the spigot. Be sure the spigot knob or handle is secured tightly in the closed position.
- 2
  Identify the leak. Locate the specific area from which water is leaking. Fixing a spigot cap may be necessary if water leaks from the base of the spigot -- the area behind the handle. On the other hand, water leaking out of the tip of the spigot may indicate a faulty washer.
- 3
  Shut off the water to the faucet. Check in your basement, under your sink or in your garage for the main water shut-off valve.
- 4
  Turn the spigot knob back to the open position to eliminate any pressure buildup in the pipes or spigot.
- 5
  Unscrew the knob. Clamp a wrench head to the base of the spigot and carefully twist to remove the knob entirely.
- 6
  Examine the sillcock nut (faucet nut) and the washer. Most spigot water leaks are a result of faulty nuts or washers. Clean dirty nuts with fresh water. Replace old, rusted or malfunctioning nuts and/or washers as necessary.
- 7
  Reposition the spigot knob and retighten with the wrench. Insert the screw back into the prefabricated hole on the spigot and tighten to complete the fix. Turn the water back on to test your repairs.

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