How To Fix Squeaky Outdoor Faucet

One of the worst noises when you are trying to work outdoors in peace, can be a squeaky faucet. As you turn the faucet (spigot) on to water your plants and shrubs, you begin to hear a loud squeaky noise. Although you clearly know that a repair should happen, you ignore the noise and continue working. This noise is not something that you are in a rush to fix. Although you should just run out to your local hardware store and purchase a replacement. How to fix a squeaky outdoor faucet? Purchase a new rubber washer and a new outdoor faucet (spigot) and replace the old ones.

Let’s take a look below at what you will need for a successful project.

What Tools Are Needed

Fortunately for the homeowner, there are very few tools needed to fix a squeaky outdoor faucet. Most homeowners are handy enough to have a wrench, flathead screwdriver, and Phillips head screwdriver handy. Here is a list of the recommended parts and tools to complete this project.

• Outdoor faucet repair kit (for your faucet brand)
• Pliers or adjustable wrench
• Flathead screwdriver
• Phillips screwdriver
• Washer assembly
• Plumbers Grease

What Steps Do I Take

Luckily for you, this project has a very simple process. Unless you are lacking in tools and strength, you can complete this project all on your own. Let’s take a look at the instructions for success.

1. Make sure to turn off the water to your outdoor faucet. Either use the main shut-off valve to the home or the direct connection to the street.
2. Take your wrench and remove the faucet (spigot) by turning the faucet counterclockwise with your wrench. Remove the retaining nut to release the air-tight seal.
3. This removes the handle of the faucet and the stem assembly. Inside the stem assembly, there is a rubber washer. Then, remove the rubber washer and replace the washer with a new one.
4. Next, check the faucet handle, stem assembly, and packing nut to ensure all are in good condition.
5. Re-attach the faucet (spigot) with the new rubber washer by turning it clockwise with your wrench.
6. Go back and turn the main water on to your home and turn on the faucet to ensure that was the correct solution.
7. If the outdoor faucet still has issues with water flow and squeaking, replace the entire faucet.

How Much Does It Cost

Believe it or not, fixing a squeaky outdoor faucet (Spigot) can be rather expensive if you hire a contractor. you should be able to fix this situation with a wrench and a new spigot and/or rubber washer. The cost of those items can cost you between $10 to $60. If you hire a contractor you are going to pay an additional $150 to $200 per hour. This project should not take you longer than 30 minutes. Be careful if you have to hire a contractor and expect to pay close to $200 in total.

Other Recommended Maintenance

While you are working outdoors on your outdoor faucet (spigot) issues, check into the options of an outdoor faucet (spigot) cover. You don’t want to be left with a freezing outdoor faucet situation. You can purchase an outdoor faucet cover at your local hardware store. Also, this can ensure that you are protecting the metal and rubber washer from excess water exposure and ice damage.

In addition, consider looking into your water heater parts. This is a great time to test your thermostat in the water heater to make sure it is working properly and set to the right temperature. Additionally, having your tools out and handily makes this a great project to explore.

Lastly, while you have your tools available, make sure that your kitchen faucet is tight. Since you are on the topic of replacing rubber washers and tightening faucets, making sure that your kitchen faucet is tight, would be a great idea here.

When Do I Call A Professional

In the case of this project, a licensed contractor might be needed. If you do not have the tools, time, or patience to complete this project, then you need a licensed contractor. Purchasing new tools and parts from the local hardware store could end up costing you more than just using a contractor.

It is recommended that you contact your local home inspection team to conduct a full home inspection and recommend any additional repairs. They can also refer the most reputable licensed contractor in your area. This saves time and money as you could potentially group projects together for one contractor visit.

Conclusion

Replacing parts on an outdoor faucet (spigot) could be time-consuming if the threads on the connections are damaged. Also, you might not even have the strength to use a wrench and loosen the outdoor faucet connection.

In this case, you would reach out to your local home inspection team. They can conduct a full home inspection to inform you of any other repairs that might be needed. This can save you time and money while reaching out to a local licensed contractor. Call on All Coast Home Inspections for a home inspection in Houston, TX.