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Fix a hose bib that leaks

We'll replace the washer, repack the stem, and tell you when to call a plumber.

Troubleshooting · Home plumbing
15–30 min
What you'll need
  • Replacement stem washer (match the bib size)
  • Packing string (if repacking)
  • Screwdriver and wrench
Step 1 of 5

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Steps

Goal: Replace the washer or repack the stem to stop the leak.

  • Shut off the water. Remove the handle and stem.
  • Replace the stem washer if the spout drips. Repack the packing nut if water leaks around the handle.
  • Good: No more leak. Bad: Leak at wall—call a plumber.

Replace washer

Goal: Fix a drip from the spout when the bib is closed.

  • Remove the washer from the bottom of the stem. Replace with a matching washer. Reassemble.
  • Good: Drip stopped. Bad: Call a plumber.

Repack stem

Goal: Stop water leaking from around the handle when the bib is on.

  • Wrap packing string around the stem above the threads. Tighten the packing nut. Do not over-tighten—the handle should still turn.
  • Good: No leak around the handle. Bad: Leak at wall—call a plumber.

When to get help

Call a plumber if:

  • The leak is at the wall connection.
  • The stem is stuck or corroded.
  • The pipe behind the wall is damaged.

Verification

  • No drip from the spout when the bib is closed.
  • No leak around the handle when the bib is on.

Escalation ladder

Work from the device outward. Stop when the problem is fixed.

  1. Shut off water Turn off the supply to the hose bib.
  2. Replace washer Replace the stem washer—most common fix for drip.
  3. Repack stem Add packing string if leak is around the handle.
  4. Call a plumber Leak at wall, stem stuck, or pipe damaged—call a plumber.

What to capture if you need help

Before calling support or posting for help, have these ready. It speeds everything up.

  • Where the leak appears (spout vs. handle vs. wall)
  • Washer condition
  • Steps already tried

Is the leak from the spout when the bib is closed, or from around the handle?

Spout drip = washer. Handle leak = packing.

Identify where the leak is. Spout when closed: replace the stem washer. Around handle: repack the packing nut. At wall: pipe or fitting—call a plumber.

Spout Handle or wall

You can change your answer later.

Replace the stem washer

Shut off the water. Remove the handle and stem. Replace the washer at the bottom of the stem. Reassemble. The drip should stop.

Done

Is the leak from around the handle?

Handle leak = packing. Wall leak = plumber.

Around handle: repack the packing nut with packing string. At wall: call a plumber—pipe or fitting may be damaged.

Yes No (wall)

You can change your answer later.

Repack the packing nut

Wrap packing string around the stem. Tighten the packing nut. The leak around the handle should stop.

Done

Call a plumber

Call a plumber if the leak is at the wall connection, the stem is stuck, or the pipe is damaged.

Done

Reviewed by Blackbox Atlas

Frequently asked questions

Why does a hose bib leak?
Common causes: a worn stem washer (drip from spout when closed), loose or worn packing (leak around the handle), or a cracked bib or pipe (leak at the wall). The washer is the most common fix.
Can I fix a hose bib leak myself?
Yes. You can replace the stem washer and repack the packing nut. Shut off the water first. If the bib leaks at the wall or the stem is corroded and will not come out, call a plumber.
When should I call a plumber for a hose bib?
Call a plumber if: the bib leaks at the wall connection, the stem is stuck or corroded, or the pipe behind the wall is damaged. Replacing a hose bib that is built into the wall may need a pro.

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