Quick Answer:
Small sand-like grit from an outdoor spigot is usually local to that hose bib or the yard plumbing. Run the spigot fully, collect a sample, and compare with indoor fixtures to confirm it’s isolated outdoors before deciding next steps.
Why This Happens
Grit at an outdoor spigot most often comes from a few common causes:
- Residual sand or sediment in a yard irrigation line or garden hose left after recent work or seasonal shutdown.
- Degrading rubber or brass inside the spigot or a connected hose fitting that flakes off when water runs.
- Mineral or particulate build-up from a well or a utility line that feeds only the outdoor plumbing.
Compare the outdoor flow to indoor fixtures. If you see **Grit coming out of faucets** inside the house as well, that points to a broader supply or service issue. If indoor water is clear, the problem is likely limited to the outdoor line or spigot hardware.
Step-by-Step What to Do
1. Run and collect
Open the spigot fully for 30–60 seconds to flush the line. Place a clear container under the flow to collect a sample of the grit and water. Let the sample sit so solids settle for inspection.
2. Check indoor fixtures
Turn on a few indoor faucets briefly (cold water) to confirm whether the grit appears inside the house. This helps determine if the issue is outdoor-only.
3. Inspect the hose and screen
Disconnect any hose. Look inside the spigot for a removable screen or washer and inspect it for sediment or deterioration. Check the hose end for crumbly rubber or corrosion that could be shedding particles.
4. Flush again and note appearance
With hose removed and spigot open, run water for a few minutes. Note whether grit decreases, stops, or continues steadily. A one-time presence that clears after flushing often means settled debris; steady grit suggests erosion or persistent sediment.
5. Look for recent work or supply changes
Ask neighbors or recall any recent utility repairs, pipe work, or well maintenance. Construction or line work can introduce sand into outdoor lines.
6. Preserve a sample and document
Keep the settled sample in a sealed container and make a note of times and behaviors (e.g., only when first turned on, continuous, after running other fixtures). This helps a pro diagnose if you call one.
What Not to Do
- Do not assume whole-house issues from an outdoor-only line. If indoor water is clear, the problem is likely limited to the spigot, hose, or yard piping.
- Do not force or disassemble plumbing you are not comfortable with. Avoid breaking spigots or stripping threads.
- Do not pour harsh chemicals into outdoor spigots to try to dissolve deposits—this can damage components and the surrounding soil.
When to Call a Professional
Call a licensed plumber if:
- The grit appears at multiple indoor fixtures or persists after flushing the outdoor line.
- You find damaged pipe, a corroded valve, or crumbly fittings that you cannot safely repair yourself.
- You use a well and suspect sediment is coming from the well pump or tank—this often needs a well technician or plumber.
If you notice **Particles only in upstairs fixtures**, that pattern points to pressure or piping issues inside the home and is a good reason to bring in a pro.
Safety Notes
- Turn off the outdoor spigot at the service valve if you spot leaks you can’t stop safely; know where your shutoff is before doing repairs.
- Wear gloves and eye protection when inspecting or disassembling spigots to avoid injury from sharp edges or pressurized water.
- If you suspect contamination from well work or nearby construction, avoid using collected water for drinking until it is tested.
Common Homeowner Questions
- Will flushing the spigot fix it? — Often yes; flushing can clear settled sediment, but persistent grit needs further inspection.
- Could a hose cause the grit? — Yes. Old or degraded hoses and fittings can shed particles into the flow.
- Is the main water supply to blame? — Only if indoor fixtures also show grit; otherwise it’s usually local to the outdoor line or spigot.
For more related articles, see the Black Specks, Sediment, or Grit in Water hub.