How to Fix A Frost-Proof Faucet That Leaks

A frost-proof faucet that's leaking can result in plenty of wasted water. It could be due to a number of reasons such as a loose nut, vacuum breaker or a stem washer assembly. However, there are simple solutions for this that you can carry out yourself with the right tools.

Materials Required

Visit your local hardware store and get the materials you don't have for this project. You will need a pair of slip joint pliers, a screwdriver and an adjustable wrench. You will also need to buy a faucet repair kit that matches your faucet.

Nut

In cases where the faucet is leaking near the handle, the problem could lie with the stem packing. This can be fixed simply by tightening the nut at the bottom of the faucet. To access, take the screw located at the center of the handle out, and pull the handle out.  Use the adjustable wrench to tighten the nut. Don't overdo it to avoid damaging the nut. If the faucet still leaks, remove the nut to fix the faucet.

Stem Washer Assembly

If tightening the nut does not stop the leaking, then you will have to remove the stem washer assembly. Turn off the water at the main water valve first. Then replace the packing gasket with the one in your repair kit. If leaking does not stop after this, then the stem itself may be leaking, and you will have to replace the faucet.

However, if the leaking near the spout of the faucet, then the problem lies with the washer. You will find it at the end of the long faucet stem. Just as you did before, unscrew the nut at the bottom using the adjustable wrench, and take out the faucet and stem. Take the faucet apart carefully and note where everything goes so that you put it back together correctly. Replace everything from your repair kit and put the faucet back together. If it still leaks, then the valve is worn, and the entire faucet needs replacement.

Vacuum Breaker

If the leakage is coming from under the cap when the tap is turned, it means that the vacuum breaker is leaking. You can replace it from your repair kit. However, some repair kits don't contain the parts for the vacuum breaker so you might have to purchase one separately.

If you still can't manage to fix it yourself, call a plumber.