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Turn Off the Water Supply — Turn Off the Outdoor Faucet's Water Supply

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How to Fix a Leaky Outdoor Faucet: A Step-by-Step DIY Guide · Step 1 of 4

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Locate your home's main water supply shut-off valve, which is typically found outside near the water meter. Turn the valve to the 'off' position to stop the flow of water to the house. This is a crucial safety step to prevent water from spraying inside your bathroom during the replacement.

Goal: Shut off water to the house

  • The last thing you want in your bathroom is the Trevi Fountain. Make sure the water is completely off.
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FAQs

Are the listed tools sufficient, or should I have anything else on hand for this faucet repair?

The adjustable wrench and slotted screwdriver are essential. It's also wise to have a small wire brush for cleaning corroded threads and a pair of pliers for gripping small parts, as well as some plumber's grease for O-rings.

What is the absolute first and most important step to ensure safety and prevent water damage?

Always turn off the water supply to the outdoor faucet completely before beginning any work. This prevents uncontrolled water flow and potential flooding. Double-check that the water is off by briefly turning on the faucet.

How much time should I set aside for this project as a beginner, and what's the typical cost for replacement parts?

As a beginner, plan for about 30-60 minutes. The cost for replacement O-rings, packing washers, and valve stems is usually very low, often under $10-$20 for a standard repair kit, making it a very economical fix.

My faucet still leaks after replacing the O-rings and packing. What else could be wrong?

First, ensure all parts are seated correctly and connections are snug but not overtightened. If the leak persists, the valve seat inside the faucet might be corroded or damaged, which may require a specialized valve seat dresser tool or replacement.

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All right, the first thing we need to do is turn off the water supply. The last thing you want in your bathroom is the Trevi fountain.

Auto-generated transcript. May contain errors.