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Why Does My Outdoor Spigot Keep Dripping After Freezing?

Fix a dripping outdoor faucet after winter freeze damage. Learn to reseat or replace the stem washer and prevent future leaks.

Category:Plumbing

Difficulty:Easy

Time:20 min

Success:50%

Updated:Jul 31, 2026

quick_referenceQuick Answer

For Why Does My Outdoor Spigot Keep Dripping After Freezing?, start with "Turn off water supply and drain": Locate the indoor shutoff valve for the outdoor spigot, close it tightly, then go outside and open the spigot to drain remaining water. Place a bucket under the spigot to catch drips. Stop DIY if water is gushing from the wall and won’t stop with the indoor valve off. This is listed as a easy recovery and usually takes about 20 min.

verifiedGuide Snapshot

Repair areaPlumbing

Estimated time20 min

DifficultyEasy

Stop conditions3

Last updated Jul 31, 2026. Review the stop conditions before continuing.

account_treeRecovery State

DeviceOutdoor Spigot

Current stateDripping

Specific stateFreeze Damage

Failed stepDrip From Spout

Likely failure typeWorn Part

DIY boundaryDIY recovery first

paymentsCost decision

help1. Understand the Problem

Outdoor spigots often drip after a freeze because ice expands inside the pipe, cracking the brass seat or dislodging the washer. Even a tiny leak can waste water and lead to basement flooding if the shutoff valve is not closed properly. Understanding the point of failure helps you choose between a simple washer swap or a full stem replacement.

build_circle2. Try This First

Best First Step

Turn off water supply and drain

Locate the indoor shutoff valve for the outdoor spigot, close it tightly, then go outside and open the spigot to drain remaining water. Place a bucket under the spigot to catch drips.

visibility3. Visual Guidance

See what's happening and how to try the first recovery step.

Remove the spigot handleUse a screwdriver to take off the handle screw, then pull the handle off the stem. Set aside.

Unscrew the packing nut and extract stemLoosen the packing nut with a wrench, then unscrew the stem assembly counterclockwise. Inspect the washer at the end.

Replace the worn washerRemove the old washer and screw on a new rubber washer of identical size. Apply plumber’s grease to the stem threads.

Reassemble and testThread the stem back in, tighten the packing nut, and reattach the handle. Turn on the indoor valve slowly and check for drips.

autorenew4. If That Doesn't Work

Try the next recovery options.

Replace the whole spigotIf the spigot body is cracked, replacing the entire outdoor faucet is the lasting solution.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use Teflon tape on the stem threads?expand_more

Teflon tape is not needed on the stem threads because the packing nut and washer create the seal. Use it only on pipe threads when replacing the whole spigot.

Why does my spigot still leak after replacing the washer?expand_more

The brass seat inside the faucet body may be scratched or worn. Use a seat-dressing tool to smooth it or install a seat replacement kit.

How do I prevent freezing next winter?expand_more

Install a frost-free sillcock, disconnect hoses before cold weather, and always shut off the indoor valve and drain the spigot.

Is a leaky outdoor spigot an emergency?expand_more

It’s usually not an emergency but can lead to water damage if the indoor shutoff is left open. Fix it promptly to avoid higher water bills.

Can I replace just the packing nut O-ring?expand_more

Yes, if the leak is from around the stem when the water is on, the packing nut O-ring may be worn. Replace it separately.

warning5. Stop DIY If

Don't continue if any of these apply.

reportWater is gushing from the wall and won’t stop with the indoor valve off

reportYou see a crack in the brass body of the spigot

reportThe spigot pipe is frozen solid and you cannot thaw it safely

Still stuck?Get personalized help with AI Recovery.

Same Device Recovery States

Device index arrow_forward

build

Fix Leaky Spigot HandleIf water drips from the handle when the spigot is on, the packing nut or washer is worn. Replace it in 15 minutes with basic tools.

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This page provides general DIY guidance.
If you're unsure, it's always best to consult a professional.