Quick Answer:
If the spigot started to drip after you mounted a new hose reel, the reel likely put sideways force or torque on the bib or its adapter. First unbolt or unmount the reel so the spigot is unloaded and test the faucet. If the leak stops, inspect the reel adapter, swivel and the spigot threads for damage. Often the fix is to retape or replace the adapter and remount the reel so it does not push or twist the faucet.
Why This Happens
Hose reels can add weight and leverage at the hose connection. If the reel bracket or swivel pulls the hose sideways it can:
- Strip or nick the spigot threads when an adapter is forced on.
- Crack the plastic or metal body of the adapter or swivel.
- Put torque on the faucet connection and open small gaps where the threaded joint seals.
If you only get a drip when the reel or hose pulls on the faucet, also check the condition of the hose and how the reel mounts—see Leak only when hose left pressurized for a related situation.
Step-by-Step What to Do
1. Unbolt or unmount the reel and test the spigot
- Shut off any interior shutoff for that spigot (if present) and open the faucet to relieve pressure.
- Remove the reel from the wall or unbolt its mounting bracket so there is no lateral force on the faucet. If the leak stops with the reel removed, the reel mounting or adapter is the likely cause.
2. Inspect the adapter, swivel and spigot threads
- Look for cracks in the reel adapter or swivel, and for any bent parts. Small plastic cracks can leak under pressure.
- Examine the spigot threads for nicks, flattened starts, or cross-threading. Run a finger around the threads—feel for rough spots or catches.
3. Clean, retape or replace the adapter
- If threads are intact, remove old tape or sealant and wrap the male threads of the adapter with fresh plumber’s (PTFE) tape—wrap clockwise so it doesn’t unwind when you screw it on.
- If the adapter or threads are damaged, replace the adapter or the entire swivel. Don’t try to hide serious thread damage with more tape.
4. Remount the reel with proper support
- Mount the reel so the bracket carries the reel’s weight and the hose connection is not subject to sideways pull. Use lag bolts into a stud or proper anchors.
- When reconnecting the adapter, hand-tighten and then give a small wrench turn—avoid overtightening which can crack fittings.
5. Test under normal use
- With the reel remounted and the adapter secured, open the spigot slowly and watch for leaks at the threaded joint and at the spigot body.
- Retract the hose and test the reel swivel through a few cycles to confirm there is no new stress on the bib.
If the problem looks like a common mismatch or weight/twist issue when the hose is attached, the topic in Outdoor faucet leaks when hose attached may help with additional checks.
What Not to Do
- Avoid forcing a reel adapter onto worn or damaged threads—this can make the damage worse.
- Do not mount the reel so it torques or pulls the spigot when the hose is full of water.
- Do not ignore signs of cracks or leaks that get worse—those usually need a repair beyond simple tape.
- If the reel installation appears to have cracked the spigot body or pulled the supply lines loose, call a professional instead of trying risky DIY fixes.
When to Call a Professional
- There is a visible crack in the spigot body, adapter or swivel.
- The spigot wiggles at the wall or the supply lines inside are pulled loose or leaking.
- You cannot stop a leak with a new adapter or tape, or the leak worsens when the system is pressurized.
- If the spigot mounting is corroded, broken, or requires replacing the portion inside the wall, a plumber should handle it.
Safety Notes
- Always shut off water and release pressure before removing fittings. Turn the spigot on briefly after shutting a nearby shutoff to bleed pressure.
- Wear gloves and eye protection when working with tools and metal fittings.
- Avoid overtightening fittings—excessive force can crack plastic or deform metal.
- If you smell fuel or the work area involves electrical hazards, stop and call a professional.
Common Homeowner Questions
- Why did it start leaking only after I mounted the reel?
Most likely the reel put lateral force or torque on the threaded joint or cracked the adapter when tightened. - Can I fix it with more plumber’s tape?
If threads are intact, fresh PTFE tape often seals a minor leak; if threads or the body are damaged, replace the part. - Is it safe to keep using the spigot until a pro arrives?
If the leak is small and contained, you can use it cautiously after testing, but stop use and call a pro if it worsens or the spigot feels loose.
More in this topic
For more related fixes and similar symptoms, see Outdoor Spigot Leaks Under Load.