Is your outdoor tap leaking, jamming, or just annoying? Fix it fast—here’s how.

June 30, 2025

Leaky taps, stiff handles, rusted threads: backyard woes that don't have to stick around

How to Fix and Maintain Outdoor Taps Without Losing Your Temper (or Half a Saturday)

Outdoor taps are the quiet heroes of the backyard. They fill watering cans, rinse muddy boots and fuel slip ‘n slides in summer. But when your tap starts leaking, stiffening up, or seizing entirely, it can throw a real spanner in an otherwise smooth-flowing weekend.

The good news? Most common tap dramas are fixable with a few tools and a bit of know-how — no need to summon a plumber unless things turn truly pear-shaped. Here’s a straight-talking guide to keeping your outdoor taps and fittings in working order all year round.

Let’s Start at the Tap: Why Outdoor Taps Cop It the Worst

Unlike the taps inside, outdoor models are exposed to the elements day in, day out. Sun, frost, dust, hard water, kids turning it too tight — it all adds up. Parts corrode. Washers wear out. O-rings crumble. Threads seize. And before you know it, you’re fighting with the tap just to fill a dog bowl.

“Maintenance isn’t about being fussy — it’s about stopping a $5 fix from becoming a $500 headache.”
— Candeece, DIY Team Lead

Spot the Sign Before It Gets Worse

Here's what to keep an eye (and ear) out for:

Leaking from the spout – Often a sign the washer’s had enough.
Drips around the handle – Could be a worn O-ring.
Handle hard to turn – Mineral build-up or stiff packing nut.
No flow or low pressure – Sediment inside the outlet or damaged pipes below.

Basic Repair Kit to Have on Hand

If you’re the type who likes to be ready for whatever the backyard throws your way, keep the following nearby:

Adjustable spanner or tap wrench
WD-40 or similar spray
Plumber’s tape (thread seal tape)
Replacement washers and O-rings
Silicone grease
Old rag or cloth — trust us, you’ll need it

How to Replace a Washer (Without Swearing)

Step 1: Turn off the water at the mains. Seriously. You’d be amazed how many skip this.

Step 2: Open your outdoor tap fully to drain any residual water.

Step 3: Use your spanner to loosen the tap bonnet (the top part that holds the spindle).

Step 4: Pull it apart carefully and remove the old washer. If it’s stuck, a small flathead screwdriver helps.

Step 5: Drop in a new washer of the same size. A dab of silicone grease will keep things flexible and smooth.

Step 6: Reassemble the tap, wrap plumber’s tape neatly around the thread, and tighten everything back up.

Step 7: Turn on the mains, and give her a test. No more drip? Job done.

Maintaining Outdoor Taps (So You Don’t Keep Fixing Them)

Sometimes it’s not about what’s broken — it’s about what you can prevent. Here’s how you keep things flowing:

1. Give it a Twist (Gently)

Don’t crank the tap handle Armageddon-style. Overtightening wears the washer faster and can damage the seat. Just snug is enough.

2. Check the Threads and Hose Connectors

If your hose keeps popping off or leaking, inspect the tap threads. Dirt buildup or slight cross-threading can cause issues. Clean gently with a brush and reapply plumber’s tape if needed.

3. Add a Cover in Winter

In frosty spots, tap covers offer basic insulation and prevent frozen pipes or cracked fittings. They're cheap insurance for bitter mornings.

4. Keep Moving Parts Moving

If you’ve got a spare five minutes, spray a bit of lubricant into the handle spindle area, especially before heavy summer use. It can do wonders for longevity.

5. Clean the Tap Outlet Screen

Some outdoor taps have small mesh screens where the water comes out. These can clog with sand or lime scale. Remove and flush with clean water every few months.

When It’s Time to Replace

If the tap body is cracked, corroded, or seized beyond love and logic — it’s time for a full replacement. The process isn’t that different to replacing a washer, just more steps. The main thing is choosing a quality tap that fits your existing pipe size and thread. You can go standard, gooseneck, dual outlet (for hoses and timers), or even lever-style taps for easier grip in winter.

New tap on, a quick pressure test, and you’re back in business. If you're unsure about thread sizes or fitting compatibility, a local hardware store with real human help can steer you right. Have a photo of the old one handy — it makes explaining easier.

The Small Fixes That Make a Big Difference

It’s not the flashiest job. No one’s going to take a selfie next to their newly greased hose outlet. But knocking off these simple repairs means your backyard plumbing is always ready when you are — whether that’s watering new turf, cleaning tools, or keeping the dogs cool on a hot day.

Even better? You learn to read the signs before they become dramas. And for anyone who’s stood ankle-deep in water trying to tighten a split hose under pressure... that’s a beautiful thing.

Need the right washer kit or unsure what tap suits best? Drop into the shop and bring the old bits with you — we get it sorted over the counter every week.

Here’s to fewer drips, better flow, and backyard weekends with less swearing.

See you out there,

Candeece