A leaky hose bib might seem like a minor annoyance, but it can lead to water waste, higher utility bills, and even hidden damage to your home. If you’ve noticed your outdoor faucet dripping or leaking—whether it’s a constant trickle or a drip that only appears when it’s on—you’re not alone. Hose bibs (also known as outdoor spigots or faucets) are exposed to the elements year-round, making them prone to wear and tear, especially in Denver’s freeze-thaw climate.
In this post, we’ll walk through the common causes of hose bib leaks, when you can fix a leaky hose bib yourself, and when it’s time to call in the Centennial and Denver plumbing pros at Bell Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Electrical.
Common Causes of Hose Bib Leaks
Before you grab your wrench, it helps to know where the leak is coming from. The most common culprits include:
- Worn-out washers or gaskets: These rubber components sit inside the faucet and help form a watertight seal. Over time, they degrade and allow water to drip.
- Loose packing nut: If water is leaking from the handle when the faucet is on, the packing nut (just under the handle) may need tightening or repacking.
- Cracked or frozen pipe: In colder areas like Denver and Centennial, water trapped in the pipe over winter can freeze and cause cracks that lead to leaks when the hose bib is used in spring.
- Corroded valve seat: Mineral buildup or corrosion can prevent a proper seal inside the faucet.
Can You Repair a Leaky Hose Bib Yourself?
In many cases, yes. If the issue is a loose nut or worn washer, these are relatively easy DIY hose bib repairs if you’re comfortable with basic tools. Here’s how to handle a simple outdoor faucet repair:
1. Turn Off the Water Supply
Before doing anything, locate the shut-off valve inside your home (usually in the basement) and turn off the water leading to the hose bib.
2. Drain the Faucet
Turn the outdoor faucet on to release any remaining water and pressure.
3. Inspect and Tighten the Packing Nut
Using an adjustable wrench, tighten the nut just behind the handle. If the leak stops, you’re all set. If not, you may need to replace the packing material or washer inside.
4. Replace the Washer
Disassemble the faucet by removing the handle and stem. Take the old washer to a hardware store to find the correct replacement. Reassemble everything and test.
5. Still Leaking? It May Be the Pipe.
If tightening and replacing washers doesn’t work, you may be dealing with a cracked pipe behind the wall or in the foundation. In this case, it’s best to contact a licensed plumber.
When to Call a Professional for Hose Bib Repair in Denver or Centennial
If the hose bib is still leaking after replacing the washer, or if you suspect freeze damage, it’s time to contact a licensed plumber in Denver. The expert team at Bell can:
- Use advanced leak detection tools to identify hidden damage (see our leak detection services)
- Perform outdoor faucet repair or replacement without damaging your siding or foundation
- Install frost-proof hose bibs to prevent future freeze damage
- Ensure your repair is up to Denver and Centennial plumbing codes
Even a slow drip can waste hundreds of gallons over time—not to mention drive up your water bill. Having a pro take a look can save you money (and headaches) in the long run.
Preventing Future Hose Bib Leaks
Colorado’s weather can be tough on plumbing fixtures. Here are a few ways to protect your hose bib year-round:
- Disconnect garden hoses before winter to prevent trapped water from freezing
- Install an insulated faucet cover to add protection in cold weather
- Upgrade to a frost-proof hose bib if your current setup isn’t winterized
- Have your system inspected during routine plumbing maintenance to catch wear and tear early
Need Hose Bib Repair in Denver or Centennial? Contact Bell Today!
Even a slow drip can waste hundreds of gallons of water and increase your utility bill. For dependable hose bib replacement or repair, Bell Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Electrical provides trusted plumbing services across Denver, Centennial, and surrounding areas.
Need a hand with your hose bib or a full plumbing inspection? Contact us today to schedule prompt, friendly plumbing service you can count on!