Plumbing in the Home/Leaky outside facuet

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Expert: Dana Bostick - 7/9/2009


Question
Hello,
I have a cutoff valve located on the outside of my home used for watering. The valve leaks so I unscewed the bonnet and the valve stem is about 12" long. I replaced the rubber valve ring at the end of the stem with the exact size required. The valve still drips. Can I repair this valve without having to cut a hole in the inside wall to get to the valve seat??

Thanks Mike Schmitz Oklahoma City, OK


Answer
Hi Mike,
These are called "Frost Free" hose bibs and are designed to drain out when the water is shut off (and hosed REMOVED)to prevent broken pipes during freezing periods. Never leave the hose connected if there is a chance of freezing weather.

In your case, the "seat" where the washer seals is probably worn or damaged.  That's why it is still leaking. I don't know of any way to replace that seat, I don't think it is a serviceable part. These are usually made by a company called "Arrowhead", at least all the ones I have ever seen were.

Here is a link to a diagram of these bibs.

http://www.arrowheadbrass.com/op_champarrow/documents/items/TS480/TS480.pdf

It looks like you will need to replace the bib.

Best,
Dana

Plumbing in the Home

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Dana Bostick

Expertise

Pretty much any residential plumbing questions. For "item specific" details such as a specific model of fixture, I will need to research and there may not be any useful information available. Note: I live and work in Southern California. We do not, as a rule, use hot water or steam heating systems, oil fired boilers or private water wells so my knowledge in those areas is pretty limited. There are others here on AllExerts that can probably answer those questions better.

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Retired Licensed General Contractor with Plumbing, HVAC and Electrical sub-licenses. Active Certified InterNachi Home Inspector and Infrared Thermographer

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InterNachi

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SearchWarp, Article Alley, www.DIYHomeInspection.blogspot.com, ActiveRain.com "Rain Maker",

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30 years in the trades, Licensed General Contractor, Certified Infrared Thermographer

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InterNachi Certified Property Inspector, Listed FHA Fee Inspector, HUD Mobile Home Inspector

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Home buyers, sellers and owners, Investors, Commercial roofing companies (infrared roof scans for moisture intrusion)

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