Quick Answer:
If the outdoor spigot gives no water, start by checking house water pressure at a nearby indoor cold tap, remove any hose or vacuum breaker, and briefly turn the spigot on to listen for flow. Then operate the indoor isolation valve that controls the spigot and inspect the hose bib backflow assembly for clogs. If you hear water running inside walls or find a leak you can’t access, call a professional.
Why This Happens
- Indoor isolation valve to the outdoor line is closed or partially stuck, cutting off flow.
- A hose, vacuum breaker, or the spigot’s backflow assembly is clogged with debris.
- Freeze damage, a failed valve, or a hidden leak in the line supplying the spigot.
- Housewide pressure issues (main shutoff partly closed or municipal supply problem).
Step-by-Step What to Do
1. Confirm house pressure with a nearby indoor cold tap
Open a nearby indoor cold tap fully and check flow. A steady, normal flow means the house supply is likely okay; a weak or no flow suggests a wider pressure problem to investigate first.
2. Remove any hose or vacuum breaker
Disconnect the garden hose and any attached vacuum breaker or hose-end backflow device. These items can trap debris or freeze and block the spigot even when the supply is fine.
3. Turn the spigot on briefly and listen for flow
With hose and attachments off, open the outdoor spigot briefly. Listen at the spigot and at an indoor tap for any signs of water movement. A steady hiss or rush indicates water is present; silence suggests the supply is blocked or the valve is closed.
4. Shut off and open the indoor isolation valve for that spigot
Locate the indoor isolation valve that serves the outdoor line (often in a basement, crawlspace, or utility room). Turn it fully closed, wait a few seconds, then open it fully again. This can clear minor debris and reseat the valve. Operate valves slowly to avoid water hammer.
5. Inspect the hose bib backflow assembly for clogging
Remove the screw-on backflow device or the hose bib cap if present and inspect the screen and passage for dirt, mineral buildup, or insect nests. Clean gently with a brush and run the spigot again to see if flow returns.
6. Check for noises or signs of a hidden leak
While the system is pressurized, listen in walls and ceilings near the run of the outdoor line. Continuous running sounds, wet spots, or a sudden loss of pressure mean a leak may be present and likely inaccessible without professional help.
For seasonal situations see No water after winter and for problems limited to one exterior outlet see No water only at backyard spigot.
What Not to Do
- Don’t force or hammer the handle to get water flowing. Forcing a valve can break it and make repairs more expensive.
- Don’t assume the pipe is burst just because there’s no water at the spigot. Follow the checks above first.
- Don’t ignore sounds of running water in walls or hidden wet spots. If you hear or find those, stop and call a professional.
When to Call a Professional
- If you hear water running inside walls or ceiling cavities.
- If you locate a leak you cannot reach or stop safely.
- If the indoor isolation valve won’t operate or the outdoor line was frozen and now shows no pressure after thawing.
- If the problem persists after you’ve disconnected hoses, cycled the isolation valve, and cleaned the backflow assembly.
Safety Notes
- Shut off the main water supply if you find an active, uncontrolled leak before doing anything else to limit damage.
- Turn valves slowly to avoid sudden pressure changes that can damage plumbing.
- Avoid working in standing water or on electrical equipment; call a pro if water reaches electrical fixtures or panels.
Common Homeowner Questions
- Why does the spigot have no water but indoor taps do?
A closed or stuck isolation valve, a clogged hose bib device, or a local line issue is the usual cause. - Can I fix a burst outdoor pipe myself?
Small visible breaks in accessible sections can sometimes be patched, but hidden or pressurized line breaks need a plumber. - How can I prevent this next winter?
Drain and shut off the outdoor line before freezing weather, and use insulated covers on spigots.
More in this topic
For more related fixes and similar symptoms, see No Water at Exterior Faucets.