How to change a hose tap:
start with the cause of the leak.

Where is your garden tap leaking?

Before you choose a new tap, notice where the water appears. A drip from the outlet, a leak around the handle and water at the wall connection can have different causes.

Dripping from the outlet

A worn washer or a problem with the valve seat may stop the tap from sealing properly. Depending on the tap’s condition, a repair may be enough.

Leaking from the top or spindle

Water around the handle can point to a worn seal or another problem in the spindle assembly. The right repair depends on the tap design.

Leaking at the pipe connection

Water around the base or behind the tap needs assessment. The connection or surrounding pipework may be involved, so replacing a washer may not address the fault.

Does the whole hose tap need replacing?

The original Jetty Plumbing guide covers both tap replacement and common washer or O-ring faults. These are different jobs. A serviceable tap with a worn internal part may be repaired, while a cracked, badly corroded or damaged fitting may need replacing.

Tell the team whether the handle is difficult to turn, the tap keeps dripping after it is closed or the pipe moves when you use it. A photo of the fitting and its connection can also help.

A replacement needs to suit the pipe connection, outdoor use and any connected hose or irrigation equipment. Ask about the requirements for the complete installation before buying a fitting.

What happens during a hose tap replacement?

Kyle’s video shows the main stages. The water supply is isolated first, and the existing connection is checked before removal. Supporting the pipe matters because force on a tight tap can damage the pipework behind it.

1. Isolate and check. Confirm the water is off and inspect the tap and connecting pipe.
2. Remove the old fitting. Protect the pipework while releasing the tap.
3. Prepare the connection. Remove old sealing material and check the threads and fitting condition.
4. Fit the replacement. Use the sealing method and tightening instructions suited to that connection.
5. Restore and test. Bring the water back on and check the connection and tap operation.

A fixed amount of thread tape or extra force is not a cure for every leak. A damaged thread or moving pipe needs attention before the job is finished.

See the hose tap demonstration.

Kyle walks through an outdoor tap replacement in the original Jetty Plumbing video. It gives you a clear view of the connection and the steps involved.

If the fitting is seized, the connecting pipe moves or the water cannot be isolated, stop and arrange an assessment. For a complete replacement at your property, our tap repair team can advise on the work.

Check the tap during normal use.

Once the work is complete, check that the tap opens and closes smoothly and that the outlet and connection remain dry when it is off. A hose attachment can also leak, so identify which part is releasing water before assuming the new tap is faulty.

For other ways to reduce outdoor waste, read our garden and outdoor water-saving tips.

Close the handle gently. Forcing it tighter each time can damage the washer and makes the tap harder to use.

If water still appears behind the tap or around the pipe, report it promptly. A continuing leak may need a separate water leak assessment.

Send us the details of your outdoor tap.

Tell us where the tap is, how long it has been leaking and whether it is connected to a hose or irrigation system. Include a photo if you have one and mention any trouble shutting off the water.

Call 0459 339 205 or request a call back. Kyle and the team can discuss whether the tap needs a repair, a replacement or further pipework checks.