Outdoor tap dripping or leaking
⚠️ Turn off the indoor isolating valve for the outdoor tap before starting work.
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Most likely cause & what to check
Locate the indoor isolating valve for the outdoor tap (usually under the kitchen sink or in a cupboard on the external wall) and turn it off.
If water is dripping from the spout, replace the tap washer following the same steps as for an indoor pillar tap.
If water is weeping around the spindle (behind the tap body), the gland packing needs tightening or replacing. Try tightening the gland nut slightly first.
If the tap body is cracked (often from freezing), it needs replacing entirely. Outdoor taps can be replaced without a plumber if you're comfortable soldering or using push-fit fittings.
To prevent future freezing: fit an anti-frost tap or turn off and drain the outdoor tap supply each autumn.
🛠 Tools & materials you may need
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