Outdoor Faucet Leaking
A leaking outdoor faucet usually needs a tighter packing nut, a new washer or a vacuum breaker. Those are $5 to $15 DIY fixes. Replacing the whole hose bib or installing a frost-free sillcock typically costs $150 to $450. If water appears inside the wall after a freeze, the pipe may have burst and needs a plumber quickly.
Typical pro cost
$150 to $450
- Urgency
- Fix this week
- DIY difficulty
- Easy
- Time to fix
- 15 minutes to 2 hours
- Prices
- US typical range
Last reviewed October 2026
Signs it's this problem
- Water drips from the spout when the faucet is off
- Water leaks around the handle when it is on
- Water sprays from the vacuum breaker on top
- A hose connection leaks even with a new hose washer
- Damp drywall or a stain inside, near the outdoor faucet
Common causes
Loose packing nut
The nut behind the handle loosens over time and lets water seep out around the stem.
Worn washer
A hardened stem washer will not seal, so the faucet drips when closed.
Failed vacuum breaker
The anti-siphon cap on top can crack or stick and leak when the water runs.
Freeze damage
Water left in the pipe can freeze and split it, often inside the wall where you cannot see it.
Worn hose washer
The rubber ring inside the hose end flattens and leaks at the threads.
How to fix it, step by step
- 1
If it leaks around the handle, tighten the packing nut behind the handle about a quarter turn with a wrench.
- 2
If it drips from the spout, turn off the indoor shutoff valve for the outdoor faucet, remove the handle and stem, and replace the washer.
- 3
If the vacuum breaker leaks, unscrew it and replace it with a matching one.
- 4
Replace the hose washer inside the hose end; it costs pennies.
- 5
If the faucet is cracked, corroded or leaks inside the wall, replace it. A frost-free sillcock prevents freeze damage in cold climates.
- 6
Before winter, disconnect hoses and drain the line so the pipe cannot freeze.
Tools and materials
- Adjustable wrench
- Screwdriver
- Faucet washer kit
- Replacement vacuum breaker
Approximate DIY cost: $5 to $30
Call a pro when
- Water is leaking inside the wall or basement
- The faucet is soldered and must be cut out
- You want a frost-free sillcock installed
Outdoor Faucet Leaking cost
| Job | Typical cost |
|---|---|
| Replace hose bib (standard outdoor faucet) | $150–$350 |
| Install frost-free sillcock | $200–$450 |
| Repair burst pipe behind outdoor faucet | $400–$2,000 |
| Washer or packing repair by a plumber | $100–$200 |
Ranges are typical US prices compiled by FixHomeCost. Prices vary by region, home and contractor, so compare 2–3 local quotes.
Common questions
Why does my outdoor faucet leak only when the hose is on?
Usually a worn hose washer, a loose packing nut or a failed vacuum breaker. All are cheap fixes.
Do frost-free faucets still freeze?
They can if a hose is left connected, because water stays trapped in the pipe. Disconnect hoses before the first freeze.
How do I find the shutoff for my outdoor faucet?
Look inside, on the pipe that leads to the faucet, usually in the basement, crawl space or a utility room near that wall.
Is a leaking outdoor faucet covered by insurance?
The faucet itself usually is not. Sudden water damage inside the home from a burst pipe often is, subject to your policy.
Related guides
This is general information, not a professional inspection. See how we research costs.