How to Fix a Leaking Garden Tap
Last updated: 30 September 2026
Turn off the water, replace the washer or O ring, and reassemble the tap.
Overview
A leaking garden tap wastes water and can damage your property. This guide covers diagnosing and fixing a leaking outdoor tap.
Step-by-Step Fix
Before beginning any repair, ensure you have isolated power or water supplies. Clear your workspace, gather standard hand tools, and wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE).
- Turn off the water supply to the garden tap. If the tap has a dedicated isolation valve inside the house turn it off. Otherwise turn off the main stopcock. Open the garden tap to release any residual water and confirm the supply is off.
- Inspect the tap to determine where the water is leaking from. A leak from the spout when the tap is closed indicates a worn washer. A leak from the base of the handle indicates a worn O ring or gland packing. A leak from the body of the tap indicates a cracked body which requires replacing the whole tap.
- If the leak is from the spout remove the tap head by unscrewing the retaining screw usually hidden under a decorative cap. Pull the handle off the spindle. Use an adjustable spanner to unscrew the valve nut and remove the spindle assembly.
- Inspect the rubber washer at the bottom of the spindle. It will likely be flattened cracked or hardened. Remove the old washer and take it to a hardware store to buy an exact match. Fit the new washer and reassemble the tap.
- If the leak is from the base of the handle the O ring on the spindle has worn. Remove the spindle assembly and slide the old O ring off. Fit a new O ring of the correct size. Apply silicone plumbers grease to the new O ring before reassembling.
- If the leak is from the body of the tap the tap body is cracked and cannot be repaired. Turn off the water supply remove the tap and install a new one. Use PTFE tape on the threads where the tap connects to the pipe.
- Reassemble the tap by reversing the disassembly steps. Tighten the valve nut firmly but not overtightened. Reattach the handle and the decorative cap. Turn the water supply back on slowly and check for leaks.
- To prevent future freezing and leaks drain the tap in winter by turning off the internal isolation valve and opening the garden tap to release any remaining water. Insulate the pipe leading to the tap if it runs through an unheated area.
- Check the tap annually for signs of wear or leaking. Replacing a washer or O ring is a cheap and simple job. If the tap body is cracked or the leak cannot be stopped call a plumber to replace the tap.
Common Symptoms & Diagnostic Resolutions
Review the common error codes and operating symptoms below to quickly identify the root cause of the fault before ordering replacement parts.
| Symptom / Code | Likely Root Cause | Recommended Resolution |
|---|---|---|
| Leak from spout when closed | Worn rubber washer | Replace the washer with a new one of the same size. |
| Leak from base of handle | Worn O ring or gland packing | Replace the O ring and apply silicone grease before reassembling. |
| Leak from tap body | Cracked or corroded tap body | The tap cannot be repaired and must be replaced. |
| Frozen tap in winter | Water inside tap expands when frozen causing cracks | Drain the tap in winter by turning off the internal valve and opening the outdoor tap. Insulate the pipe to prevent freezing. |
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is my garden tap leaking?
The most common cause is a worn rubber washer inside the tap. Other causes include a worn O ring at the handle or a cracked tap body. The leak location tells you which part is faulty.
Can I fix a leaking garden tap myself?
Yes replacing a washer or O ring is a simple DIY task. Turn off the water remove the tap head and replace the worn part. If the tap body is cracked the tap must be replaced.
How do I prevent my garden tap from freezing?
Turn off the internal isolation valve and drain the tap in winter. Open the outdoor tap to release any remaining water. Insulate the pipe leading to the tap if it runs through an unheated area.
What size washer does a garden tap use?
Garden taps typically use a standard half inch washer. Take the old washer to a hardware store to match the size and type. Tap washers are inexpensive and widely available.