5 Telltale Signs You Need a New Hose Bib

5 Telltale Signs You Need a New Hose Bib

Hose bib, often referred to as the outdoor faucet or the most important outdoor appliances every home needs. From being used to water your garden, wash your car, or even just water fun in the yard with the family your hose bib is a hard working fixture. Because of this constant use overtime your hose bib will wear down leading to breaks which result in leaks, and damage that can result in costly plumbing repairs. If you're noticing problems with your hose bib, it might be time for a replacement. Here are some common signs that indicate you need a new hose bib.

1. CONSTANT LEAKING OR DRIPPING

One of the most common signs of a failing hose bib is constant leaking or dripping. If water continues to leak from your hose bib even when the hose bib is turned off, that is a key sign that there is an issue in the internal parts or what we like to call the “guts” of the hose bib. Over time, the valve or washer inside the hose bib can degrade, causing the faucet to malfunction and leak. While a simple washer replacement might temporarily fix the problem, if the hose bib is old or the leak persists, it may be more cost-effective to replace the entire faucet.

2. LOW WATER PRESSURE

If you're noticing weak water flow from your hose bib, it could be a sign that the internal valve or hose bib itself is partially clogged or corroded. Mineral deposits or rust can accumulate inside the faucet over time, narrowing the opening where water flows. This blockage can result in a noticeable reduction in water pressure. If cleaning the faucet doesn't restore normal water flow, it’s a good idea to replace the hose bib to ensure you have the water pressure you need.

3. FROZEN

One of the most common calls we get here at Wrights Plumbing and Rooter is for a frozen hose bib. A frozen hose bib is caused when a hose is left attached when temperatures drop. When the water inside the hose bib freezes, it can cause the metal to expand, leading to cracks or bursts. If you notice any cracks, leaks, or signs of water damage around your hose bib after a cold spell, it may be time to replace it. A frozen or burst hose bib can lead to significant water damage if left unaddressed, so replacing it quickly is important.

4. CORROSION OR RUST

Because your faucet is outdoors it is constantly being exposed to the elements. Which will lead to corrosion and rust. Rust can make turning the handle difficult and cause leaks or cracks. Additionally, corrosion can weaken the structure of the hose bib, causing it to fail entirely. If your hose bib shows significant signs of corrosion, it's time to replace it with a new one to avoid potential damage to your plumbing system.

5. DIFFICULTY TURNING HANDLE

If you find it difficult to turn the hose bib handle, this could indicate a problem with the internal components, like a worn-out stem or valve. Sometimes, these issues can be repaired by lubricating or replacing parts, but if the handle is still hard to turn or gets stuck, it might be time to replace the whole faucet. A malfunctioning hose bib can make outdoor chores frustrating, and in some cases, it can lead to damage to the plumbing.

As your hose bib plays an important role in your home's outdoor plumbing it is important to make sure that you keep an eye on it so that no major damage. Keeping an eye out for signs of wear and tear, such as leaking, rust, low water pressure, or difficulty turning the handle, will help you determine when it’s time to replace it. If you’re experiencing any of these issues, it’s best to contact a professional plumber who can assess the situation and recommend the best solution to keep your plumbing running smoothly.

Don’t wait for these to get worse before you call for help. As Wrights Plumbing and Rooter always says, “Trust Us: We Know Our Crap!”