How to fix leaky outdoor tap?

[ennoh]

One of my outdoor taps has started leaking - how do I fix it?     Replace a washer or replace the tap?

   

[MitchellMc]

Hi @ennoh,

Yes, you can replace the washer within the tap to resolve the leak. You'll need to first turn your water off at the mains and then unscrew the spindle, which I've highlighted below. To undo the spindle, you should use an adjustable spanner. Once you've removed the spindle, you can replace the washer and then reassemble the tap.

Please let me know if you have any questions.

Mitchell

 

[ennoh]

Thanks Mitchell, but the tap is seized up and I cant unscrew the spindle.   Would a douse of boiling water loosen it up?

[EricL]

Hello @ennoh 

I'm afraid hot boiling water will not be enough to soften the grip of the brass body on the spindle. It's possible that it is machine fit causing the spindle to seize onto the threads of the brass body. If you have access to a larger wrench such as the Trojan 350mm Pipe Wrench, it will give you better leverage and allow you to use more force to turn the spindle.

However, if it proves to be too much trouble, you also have the option of replacing the entire brass tap with a new one such as the Syneco 1/2" Brass Garden Hose Tap.

If you need further assistance, please let us know.

Eric

[ennoh]

I have finally fixed both taps.  I figured that both taps are pretty old so I replaced the tap where the part had seized up, and I replaced the spindle of the other tap.   $23 to fix both - bargain!!   Thanks Mitchell and also to Brian at Melville who was so helpful in finding the parts that I needed.

[EricL]

Hello @ennoh 

I'm sure Mitchell will be pleased to hear that you've managed to fix your garden taps. 

If you need assistance with any other projects, please let us know.

Eric