If your outdoor spigot starts leaking after you turn the water back on, it can be worrying — especially if it wasn’t leaking before. In most cases, this happens because pressure changes or debris disturbed internal parts during the shutoff.
The good news is that many spigot leaks after a shutoff are minor and fixable.
Quick Answer:
Outdoor spigots often leak after a water shutoff because pressure changes loosen washers, seals, or debris inside the valve. Tightening the packing nut or replacing a worn washer usually stops the leak.
Why This Happens
When water is shut off, outdoor spigots are often left in a partially drained state. When water is restored, pressure returns suddenly and can:
- Expose worn washers or seals
- Push debris into the valve seat
- Loosen the packing nut behind the handle
- Stress older or freeze-damaged spigots
This is especially common after turning your water back on after shutting it off, or if the water was restored quickly.
Leaks may appear:
- Around the handle
- From the spout
- Only when the spigot is turned on
Step-by-Step: How to Fix a Leaking Outdoor Spigot
Step 1: Identify Where the Leak Is Coming From
Look closely to see whether the leak is:
- Around the handle
- From the spout
- From the pipe connection behind the wall
This determines the next step.
Step 2: Tighten the Packing Nut
If water leaks around the handle:
- Locate the small nut directly behind the handle
- Turn it clockwise slightly (¼ turn at a time)
- Test the spigot
This is the most common fix and often works immediately.
Step 3: Run the Spigot to Clear Debris
Turn the spigot fully on for 30–60 seconds.
This helps flush out sediment that may have shifted during the shutoff, especially if you’ve also noticed low water pressure after turning the water back on.
Step 4: Replace the Washer (If Needed)
If the spigot drips from the spout when turned off:
- Shut off water to the spigot
- Remove the handle and stem
- Replace the rubber washer at the end
Worn washers are often revealed after pressure is restored.
Step 5: Check for Freeze Damage
If leaking continues:
- Inspect for cracks
- Check for water dripping behind siding
- Look for leaks only when the spigot is on
This may indicate freeze damage that was already present.
What Not to Do
- Don’t ignore a steady drip
- Don’t overtighten the packing nut
- Don’t seal leaks with tape or caulk
- Don’t assume the pipe inside the wall is broken right away
Most post-shutoff spigot leaks are valve-related, not pipe failures.
When to Call a Professional
Call a plumber if:
- Water leaks inside the wall
- The spigot continues leaking after washer replacement
- You see cracks in the spigot body
- Multiple outdoor spigots leak at once
If multiple fixtures are affected, the issue may be related to problems after restoring water to the house, not just the spigot.
Safety Notes
- Restore water slowly at the main valve
- Keep one indoor faucet open during restoration
- Check outdoor spigots carefully after shutoff
- Avoid leaving spigots pressurized unattended
Catching leaks early prevents hidden water damage.
Common Homeowner Questions
Is it normal for outdoor spigots to leak after a shutoff?
Yes. Pressure changes often reveal worn washers or loose packing nuts.
Will the leak stop on its own?
Minor leaks sometimes improve, but steady dripping usually requires a small repair.
Should I shut the water off again?
Only if the leak is severe. Most small leaks can be fixed with water on.