How to Fix Leaky Garden Hose

A garden hose is meant to deliver water from point A to point B. If your hose is leaking, then you are going to have water in way more areas than you signed up for. Fortunately, you do not necessarily have to head out to buy a new hose. At Leak Detection of Atlanta, we know how to repair leaks, and this article is dedicated to fixing leaky garden hoses. We will go over locating the leak and presenting a couple of solutions. This is going to be much simpler than repairing plumbing leaks. Plus, if you have plumbing leaks, you can always call Leak Detection of Atlanta for professional assistance.

Locate the Leak

Can’t fix a leak if you don’t know where the leak is, so the first step is to locate the exact point, or points, of leakage. Step one is to attach a nozzle to the end of your garden hose and turn on the water. As pressure builds up in the hose, the leaks will present themselves. If the leaks are at the ends of the hose, just make a mental note of them. If there are holes along the hose, then you will have to use a permanent marker to highlight the hole so you can find it again once the water is turned off and you are getting ready to repair the damage.

Repairing a Hose Bib

The outdoor faucet that you connect the garden hose to is called the "hose bib," and the hose bib is exposed to the elements. It is commonly damaged and is a headache for homeowners as a source of leaks. Fortunately, the replacing or repairing the hose bib is not complicated.

First try to repair the unit. Turn the water off at the main supply valve and remove the hose bib from the wall using a screwdriver. Next, loosen and remove the handle screw to access the internal components. Once you get there, you want to remove the old washer from the hose bib to inspect it. If the washer is worn, then you should remove it and clean the area in which the old washer sat. Place a new washer and re-assemble the hose bib before turning on the water to test the new part. If this does not work, then see if tightening the packing nut or placing some Teflon tape over the stem of the faucet works.

Repairing Along the Hose

A leak along the hose might be nerve-wracking, but it does not necessarily call for a complete replacement of the hose. Mark the location of the hole or holes and head to your local hardware store to purchase a hose repair kit. You will likely have to use your shears to cut off the damaged area, or areas, and attach the clamps and coupler in the hose repair kit. Enjoy your leak-free hose!

Struggling with Plumbing Leaks?

Leaking pipes are more complicated, but Leak Detection of Atlanta is here to help. If you are struggling with plumbing leaks, then call Leak Detection of Atlanta to schedule an appointment or request an urgent dispatch.