Outside Faucet Leaking in Burleson TX – When to Repair or Replace

An outside faucet that’s leaking might seem like a minor problem, but it can waste hundreds of gallons of water and drive up your water bill quickly. In this guide, we’ll help you understand when you can repair an outside faucet and when it’s time to replace it entirely. If you’re in Burleson TX and need professional help, Dependable Plumbing Company is here to assist.

Why Outside Faucets Leak

Outside faucets, also called hose bibs or spigots, are exposed to harsh weather conditions year-round. In Texas, we experience hot summers, occasional freezing winters, and intense UV rays. These conditions cause the rubber washers inside the faucet to deteriorate and crack over time.

Common reasons for outside faucet leaks include:

• Worn washers: The rubber seal inside the faucet wears out and stops creating a tight seal
• Corrosion: Rust and mineral buildup can damage the internal components
• Freeze damage: If you don’t properly winterize your faucet, freezing temperatures can crack the valve
• Loose packing nut: The nut holding the handle can loosen and cause leaks around the stem

Signs Your Outside Faucet Needs Attention

Steady Dripping

If water drips from your faucet even when it’s completely turned off, you likely have a worn washer. A single drip per second can waste over 3,000 gallons of water per year.

Leaking Around the Handle

Water leaking from around the handle stem means the packing nut is loose or the internal seal is damaged. This type of leak wastes water every time the faucet is used.

Visible Corrosion or Rust

If your faucet looks rusty or has visible corrosion, the internal components are likely damaged. Corrosion spreads quickly and makes the faucet harder to control.

Water Won’t Shut Off Completely

When you turn the handle all the way, water should stop flowing. If it doesn’t, the valve seat inside is damaged and needs repair or replacement.

Can You Repair an Outside Faucet?

When Repair Makes Sense

If your faucet is relatively new (less than 5-10 years old) and only has minor dripping, repair is usually the most affordable option. Common repairs include:

• Replacing the rubber washer ($20-50 in parts)
• Tightening the packing nut
• Cleaning mineral buildup

These repairs can extend your faucet’s life by several more years.

When Replacement is Better

You should replace your outside faucet if:

• It’s older than 15 years
• It has severe corrosion or rust
• Multiple internal components are leaking
• The valve won’t shut off no matter how hard you turn it
• You’ve had it repaired multiple times in the past year

A new outside faucet costs $50-150 plus installation. While it’s more expensive upfront than a repair, a new faucet will be more reliable and water-efficient for the next 10-15 years.

How to Prevent Outside Faucet Problems

Winterize Your Faucets

Before freezing temperatures arrive, drain and shut off water to your outside faucets. In the Burleson area, this is especially important in December and January. A burst faucet can lead to costly water damage to your home’s foundation.

Use a Faucet Cover

Even if you’ve shut off the water, insulating your faucet with a cover protects it from extreme cold and UV damage.

Don’t Leave the Hose Connected

Water trapped in a connected hose can freeze inside the faucet. Always disconnect your hose when you’re done using it.

Turn Off the Water Slowly

Turning the handle too hard can damage the internal components. A gentle, firm turn is all you need.

When to Call a Professional

If you’re not comfortable doing a simple repair yourself, or if the problem is more complex than a worn washer, it’s time to call a professional plumber. Trying to force a stuck faucet or applying too much force can make the problem worse.

Signs you should call a plumber:

• You’re unsure what’s causing the leak
• The faucet won’t budge when you try to turn it
• Water is leaking inside your home near the faucet connection
• You need the job done quickly and correctly

Professional Outside Faucet Repair in Burleson TX

If your outside faucet is leaking and you need professional help, Dependable Plumbing Company specializes in outside faucet repair and replacement. Our experienced plumbers have been serving Burleson homeowners since 1985.

We can:

• Diagnose the exact cause of your leak
• Repair worn washers and damaged components
• Replace old or damaged faucets with quality new ones
• Winterize your faucets to prevent freeze damage
• Offer upfront pricing with no surprises

Don’t let a leaking outside faucet waste water and money. Call Dependable Plumbing Company today at 817-447-2654 for a free estimate on outside faucet repair or replacement in Burleson TX and surrounding areas.

We’re available for same-day service and offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee on all our work. Contact us today to schedule your outside faucet repair.