Easy DIY Hack for Fixing Outdoor Water Spigots Will Save People Hundreds
outdoorfaucet
In a recent exchange on TikTok, a well-known fixer-up and DIY creator known as Gator shared a golden nugget of wisdom that could save homeowners hundreds of dollars. The topic? Fixing a seized-up, non-functional outdoor spigot. It’s a common enough issue many of us face, especially when we are talking about older spigots or faucets or ones that see a lot of bad weather (yes, I am talking about myself too here). But before you call in a professional and get a big bill for your troubles, why not try your hand at a simple yet effective fix?
Your outdoor spigot, essential for gardening, washing cars, or running your sprinklers, may seem like a big task to tackle, especially on your own. Luckily, with Gator’s advice, it doesn’t have to be, and your first step starts with turning the water off so you don’t wind up getting sprayed in the face.
Grab a screwdriver to remove the handle from the spigot. If it’s a bit stubborn, a dash of WD40 can work wonders. Beneath the handle, you’ll find a packing nut. This is where pliers or channel locks come into handy. Unscrew this nut to remove the stem, which is essentially the heart of your spigot.
Upon removing the stem, inspect the bottom. You’ll spot a Phillips head screw holding a flat washer in place. This little washer is often the culprit behind leaks, even when the spigot is turned off.
But what if water is leaking from the top? The answer lies in the O-ring situated around the stem. This tiny component is crucial for preventing leaks when the water is running.
Now that you’ve pinpointed the problem parts, head to your local hardware store. Armed with the knowledge of what you need – a new stem, washer, and O-ring – you’re ready to tackle the issue head-on. For those feeling adventurous, you can even replace the entire faucet. The choice is yours, depending on the setup and condition of your existing pipes. Sometimes, the solution is even simpler. Purchasing a new faucet and salvaging the stem for your old one can save time and effort, especially if the rest of the unit is in good shape.
No matter the make or model of your outdoor spigot, the fundamentals of fixing them remain largely the same. With a few tools, a bit of patience, and Gator’s expert advice, you’re well on your way to becoming a DIY master. And the best part? You’ve saved yourself a significant amount in repairs, proving that sometimes, the best person for the job is you.