frost poof faucet - repair leaky freeze proof sillcock

Is Your Outdoor Frost Proof Faucet Leaking? Here’s How to Fix it!

ByDino Pelle

A frost-proof faucet on the exterior of your home (technically called a sillcock, it’s also known as a frost-free or freeze-proof faucet) is similar to a common outdoor faucet. What’s the difference?

The outdoor frost-proof faucet has an extra-long stem (or pipe) reaching back about 12 inches inside the hose. This is one of the keys to its freeze-proof superpowers. But like any other type of faucet, parts do wear out and require periodic replacement. In this case, it’s the stem’s washer.

how to insulate exposed water pipes - Diagram
The water is shut off several inches into the home. The water line does not freeze because of the heat in the home. The product cannot freeze because there is no water in the faucet. When the valve is turned off, all of the water in front of the valve drains from the faucet leaving the tube empty.

How to Repair a Leaky Frost-Proof Faucet

Here are step-by-step instructions for how to repair a frost-proof faucet that’s leaking from a worn-out O-ring or washer.

frost proof faucet - replace washer
Remove the sillcock faucet stem and notice the washer at the end of the stem. That’s the washer you’ll want to replace. See all steps below.
  1. Turn off the water supply valve to the sillcock inside the house. It should be located somewhere close to the opposite side of the outdoor spigot (on the inside of the house). If you can’t find it, then shut off the main water supply for the entire house. It’s located near your water heater in a basement or utility closet.
  2. Remove the handle screw. Lift the handle straigh up and off.
  3. Using an adjustable wrench, remove the hexagonal retaining nut by turning it counterclockwise.
  4. Turn the stem counterclockwise and pull it all th way out.
  5. Take the retaining nut and the stem to a hardware store and purchase replacement O-rings and washer.
  6. Replace the O-rings and washer.
  7. Insert the stem into the sillcock body and turn it clockwise as far as it will go.
  8. Screw the nut back on the stem with the adjustable wrench.
  9. Replace the handle and secure it with the handle’s screw.
  10. Turn the water supply valve back on and check for leaks . Tighten the retaining nut further if necessary.
Watch this video for more on how to fix a leaking frost-proof outdoor faucet.

Final Thoughts

Trust us, repairing a frost-free faucet looks much more complicated than it actually is.

Remember, all you’re doing is (1) tightening what’s already part of the assembly to make sure the fittings are extra-secure, and (2) replacing simple O-ring and washer if they look worn out. It’s as simple as taking one out and putting the new one in. Give it a try if you’re seeing a leak. You got this!

Call 1-Tom-Plumber

Don’t hesitate to contact us here or call us at 1-Tom-Plumber (1-866-758-6237) if you need help repairing or installing a frost-proof outdoor faucet.

1-Tom-Plumber’s certified team of plumbers and drain technicians respond immediately to any emergency plumbing, drain cleaning, or water damage problem. We also handle the excavation of underground water lines and sewer main lines. Our immediate-response team is available every day and night of the year, even on holidays.

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