Repairing a leaking hose vial
Shut off the water
Start by shutting off the water to the hose line. You will usually find a shut-off valve in the house that controls the flow of water to the outdoor hose connection. Close this valve by turning the handle fully clockwise. If your hose manifold does not have a shut-off valve, you can shut off the water supply to the entire house.
Remove the handle
Use a screwdriver to remove the screw that secures the hose assembly handle to the valve stem, then pull the handle off - a little wiggling may be required. Carefully set the handle and screw aside.
Unscrew the packing nut
Next, use pliers or an adjustable wrench to unscrew the packing nut that secures the valve stem to the valve body.
Remove the valve stem
Remove the valve stem from the valve body. On some types, it may be necessary to turn the stem clockwise instead of counterclockwise as usual.
Replace the stem washer
Examine the rubber or neoprene washer at the end of the valve stem. If it is hardened, cracked or deformed, this is most likely the cause of your leaky faucet. Loosen the brass screw that secures the washer to the stem. Brass is a soft metal, so be careful when unscrewing it. If the screw is damaged, you may need to replace it - washer kits often come with replacement screws.
Choose an exact replacement for the old washer and attach it to the end of the valve stem with a screw.
Replace the packing cord
Unwrap the old graphite or Teflon packing cord from the valve stem below the packing nut, then wrap several loops of the new cord clockwise around the stem (when looking down at the stem from above). Alternatively, you can use a fiber packing washer that serves the same function as the packing cord. Larger washer sets usually include an assortment of packing washers.
Reassemble the faucet
Screw the valve stem back into the faucet body, then screw the packing nut onto the top of the faucet. Lightly tighten the packing nut with a wrench, then replace the faucet handle onto the stem and check the operation of the faucet. If you overtighten the packing nut, the handle may be difficult to turn. The handle should turn freely, and you should be able to feel the washer pressed against the valve seat inside the valve.
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