As we approach the summer months, it is crucial to shift our attention towards maintaining our outdoor plumbing components. Preparing spigots and water hoses for the demands of the upcoming season is a critical pre-summer task that should not be neglected; however, it is often overlooked. From daily watering of your garden beds to planning all the fun outdoor water activities, spigots and water hoses are essential for a variety of tasks.
For this reason, making sure your outdoor fixtures are up to handling the summer activities ahead is an important task. At Upper Arlington Plumbing & Drain, we are committed to providing you with the expertise and tools necessary to identify and repair spigot leaks, which will ultimately pave the way for your seamless enjoyment of the summer season.
How Do You Spot a Spigot Leak?
It is essential to understand how to detect leaks, as identifying them is the first step towards mitigation. Furthermore, it is crucial to address any leaks in your spigot promptly upon discovery.
- Look for Corrosion or Rust: A rusted spigot is an indicator of underlying issues. Corrosion or rust often signals a leak that requires immediate attention. If this is the case for you, we suggest consulting a plumber promptly to address this concern.
- Look for Water Stains or Mold: Water stains or mold serve as subtle indicators that can emerge unexpectedly. Therefore, you should remain vigilant and conduct regular inspections around your spigots for any signs of water stains or mold. Should you encounter either of these signs, it would be best to enlist the help of a professional.
- Look for Dripping Water: Go ahead and turn on the faucet, allowing the water to flow briefly. Should there be any leakage from the spigot, either during the flow or after it has been turned off, you may have a spigot leak that needs attention. Water should only emanate directly from the fixture’s spout (or through the water hose) rather than from beneath or out of the spigot.
- Look for Low Water Pressure: Additionally, you’ll want to observe the water pressure. A significantly reduced flow rate from the hose may indicate a leak within the system. Under these circumstances, it is advisable to consult with a professional to accurately diagnose the reason as to why there has been a recent plummet in the water’s pressure.
How Do You Fix a Spigot Leak?
There are several straightforward procedures you can follow to address a spigot leak. For common issues such as water drippage, please adhere to the instructions provided below.
- Secure Loose Connections: If any connections on the fixture are loose, try tightening them with a wrench to adequately tighten the spigot. Move firmly but carefully.
- Replace Worn-out Washers: Over time, it is common for washers to degrade. Thus, if tightening the spigot does not resolve the issue, replacing the old washers with new ones may be necessary.
- Seal Cracks or Openings: With continuous usage and exposure to elements, cracks, holes, or openings may develop around the fixture. This is a normal occurrence, so there is no need to be alarmed by it. Simply reseal the openings with a waterproof sealant to effectively seal any visible cracks or gaps around the spigots.
- Install a Backflow Preventer: If you are encountering issues with backflow, installing a backflow preventer is a prudent measure to protect your plumbing system from the reverse flow of water. This practice is instrumental in maintaining water quality and preventing contamination.
- Upgrade to Frost-Free Spigots: For those who have experienced a frozen spigot or a leak resulting from one, upgrading to frost-free spigots is recommended. This upgrade is essential to minimize the risk of frozen pipes and subsequent leaks, ensuring consistent functionality even under adverse weather conditions.
How Do You Know When to Contact a Professional Plumber?
Understanding the appropriate time to engage a professional is crucial in ensuring the success of your plumbing system. It is important to judiciously assess whether the leak can be managed independently or if it necessitates the expertise of a professional for diagnosis. Keep in mind, for instances involving water stains and mold, fixtures that have rusted over, or significantly reduced water pressure, consulting a professional is always best, as these symptoms often indicate an internal leak.
Don’t overlook a leaking spigot, as it can escalate into a more significant issue. Choosing our services means you are opting for a team that genuinely prioritizes maintaining your home’s optimal condition. Interested in preventing future plumbing issues? Please do not hesitate to contact us. We offer a comprehensive array of plumbing services designed to keep you stress-free while ensuring the best value for your investment.
Call Upper Arlington Plumbing & Drain today at (614) 363-1924 or schedule an appointment by clicking here!