Spigots have two main breakdowns: a drip that won’t stop (like a leaky faucet) or a freeze-up where it won’t turn at all (like your grandpa in winter). The drip is almost always a worn-out rubber washer inside. The freeze-up is usually a packing nut that’s tighter than a miser’s wallet.
Here’s a surprising fact: 90% of spigot problems are caused by the little rubber washer inside. That tiny piece of rubber works harder than a hummingbird on espresso, and eventually, it turns to mush. The other 10% is just you using a wrench like a caveman.
Before you touch anything, turn off the water. Find the shut-off valve inside your house—usually in the basement or crawl space. If you skip this step, you’ll create a backyard fountain that would make Versailles jealous. And your cat will judge you.
