Check for Outdoor Faucet Problems

We use plumbing inside our homes and businesses on a daily basis. If you form a clog in a toilet or spot a leak in your bathroom sink or shower, you can find the problem and seek a solution to avoid disrupting your busy schedule.

But most buildings feature outdoor plumbing as well, which can malfunction and impact your life as well. For this reason, you should always inspect outdoor faucets, like the spigot connected to your hose, for signs of issues. Prompt evaluation of these facilities can prevent serious plumbing emergencies and save you money on utility bills.

Sometimes you can fix problems with an outdoor faucet with your own troubleshooting. But more complicated concerns will require intervention from a plumber. Learn about potential problems you may notice in your outdoor spigot when you read on.

Leaky Outdoor Spigots

If you see pooling water or muddy ground near your outdoor faucet, you should first determine the source of the leak. In most cases, a leak in a spigot comes from worn-down materials within the faucet. You can replace washers, nuts, or vacuum breakers on your own with items at your local hardware store.

If the leak exists where the spigot meets a hose, this may point to damage to the faucet threads, a type of groove on the outside of the faucet. Worn threads cannot be replaced, and you may need help from a plumber to replace the entire unit. If you cannot determine the source of the leak from an outdoor faucet, consult a plumber for an inspection.

Water Pressure Problems

Do you notice water coming from an outdoor faucet seems to flow weakly or slowly? Low water pressure may indicate issues within the pipes rather than the spigot. Mineral and other build-up within the plumbing system can partially block water flow to cause pressure problems.

The clog might develop in the aerator, a small screen attached to the edge of the faucet, which you can remove, clean, and replace. However, clogs within the pipes might need professional attention to clean or replace. Give your plumber a call to find the right solution for your outdoor faucet concerns.

Burst Pipes

While leaks or low water pressure from an outdoor faucet might occur due to smaller issues, a burst pipe can also lead to pooling water or pressure issues from this spigot. You may also notice mold, bad smells, or discoloration around the faucet if a pipe in your plumbing system bursts.

If a pipe bursts, you will need urgent help from a plumber to fix the problem. Otherwise, you could see serious moisture damage on your property as well as costly utility bills.

Pipes might burst if they are old or clogged. Freezing winter temperatures might also put pipes, especially outdoor ones, at risk of serious structural damage.

To reduce this danger, you should book an inspection with your plumber. They can find warning signs and treat your plumbing to prevent this emergency scenario.