Why would an outside tap suddenly stop working?

Question

Went outside to clean my cars and the outside tap (cold only) isn't working. Why is this happening? Do you think I could fix it myself?

Charlie · Accepted Answer

Hi Jonathan,

An outside tap can suddenly stop working for a few common reasons:

• The internal isolation valve may have been turned off (often under the sink or in a cupboard).
• A frost protection valve may have shut the supply after cold weather.
• The tap washer or valve could be stuck or failed.
• The pipe feeding the tap may be frozen, blocked, or have low pressure.
• Less commonly, there could be a leak or airlock in the supply.

A quick check of the internal stop/isolating valve usually identifies the issue. If not, it may need inspection and repair.

Hope this helps 👍

Chris · Answer

The valve inside the tap could have seized or snapped in the closed position. The tap handle will be turning but the spindle and valve inside the tap will not be moving. 
If you can isolated the water, take off your old tap and then for a new one, then yes you can do it yourself.

Abdul · Answer

The outside tap is frozen pour hot water over the tap as ice is formed in the tap and get insulated cover for tap which you can pick from any diy outlet such as Screwfix or wickes

Sanjay · Answer

Probably pipe has frozen if not Insulated. Yes you could by get some grey pipe insulation and pop in them around any exposed pipe outside.

Ray · Answer

They have a check valve inside. It will be stuck.

Tux · Answer

Hi

As the other gent has said, could be a few issues but mainly someone isolated or actual tap mechanism knackered.

Willson · Answer

Internal isolation valve turned off, Blocked or failed non-return (check) valve,

3. Washer or tap mechanism failure

4. Pressure issue in the property
Low mains pressure or recent plumbing work nearby can temporarily affect outside taps first.

Timothy · Answer

Non return valve has jammed not allowing water to pass through

Connor · Answer

This can be frozen pipework or possible air lock or blockage in the pipework

Russ · Answer

Frozen pipe, defective tap, stuck in closed position, defective check valve. Yes you can change all these yourself, it should have an iso to make it easy

Why would an outside tap suddenly stop working?

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