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How to Repair a Noisy Outdoor Faucet

Fix a loud, vibrating outdoor spigot by replacing the faucet washer and tightening the screw holding the faucet handle.

by Brett Martin

From The Family Handyman

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Q  I have an outdoor faucet that makes a loud vibrating noise when I open or shut it. How can I fix it? I have another outdoor faucet that works fine.
—Larry Carrier, Lewiston, ME

A  The faucet washer is probably worn out. You can easily replace it without removing the entire faucet. First, turn off the water to the faucet. Then use a wrench to remove the retaining nut that’s attached to the sill cock.

Slide the handle and stem assembly out of the sill cock. Remove the screw at the end of the stem and remove the washer. Buy a new washer that matches the old one at any hardware store. Then reassemble the faucet. Occasionally the washer is fine but the screw holding it is loose. If so, put a drop of Loctite Threadlocker ($4 at hardware stores) on the threads and tighten it. Some faucets have a spring-loaded sleeve near the washer. If you have this type, replace the entire faucet.

From The Family Handyman - March 2006

• • Exterior Projects
• • Weekend Projects
• • Plumbing Projects

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