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Outdoor spigot (hose bib) leaks
An outdoor faucet can leak where you can see it (the handle or spout) or inside the wall where you can't. The second kind often follows a freeze.
Signs of a hidden spigot leak
- Water inside the basement or crawl space near the spigot when it's turned on
- A spigot that sprays from behind the handle when a hose is attached and running
Frost-free spigots
These place the valve seat inside the heated wall. They only work if the hose is disconnected in freezing weather. A hose left attached traps water in the stem, which can split it.
Seasonal routine
- Fall: disconnect hoses, shut off and drain any interior isolation valve, and fit an insulated cover (frozen pipe prevention).
- Spring: turn it on slowly and check inside for drips.
Handle drips are often a worn washer or packing. A split stem means replacing the spigot, usually a plumber job.