Why Did Our Outdoor Faucet Stop Working All of a Sudden?

It’s a hot day, and you turn on your outdoor faucet, only to find that no water comes out. If your hose bib or outdoor spigot stopped working without warning, it can be frustrating, especially if you're trying to water plants, fill a pool, or wash your car. This blog breaks down the most common reasons why an outdoor faucet might suddenly stop working and what you can do about it.

Common Reasons Your Outdoor Faucet Stopped Working

Shut-Off Valve Inside the House Is Closed

Many outdoor faucets have a dedicated shut-off valve located inside your home (often in the basement, laundry room, or utility closet). If it was accidentally turned off or left off after winterization, you won’t get water flow.

Frozen or Burst Pipes

In colder seasons, leftover water in outdoor plumbing lines can freeze, causing cracks or blockages. If this happened recently, the damage might not show until the next time you try to use the faucet.

Clogged Faucet or Hose Bib

Sediment, rust, or mineral buildup can clog the faucet, especially in areas with hard water like Phoenix. This can restrict or completely block water flow.

Damaged Washer or Valve Assembly

Inside your outdoor faucet is a small washer and valve system that controls water flow. If those parts wear out or break, the faucet may stop working suddenly.

Broken or Disconnected Pipe

If you’ve recently done landscaping or other yard work, a pipe connected to the outdoor faucet could have been accidentally damaged or loosened underground.

How to Troubleshoot the Issue

• Check the indoor shut-off valve to ensure it’s fully open.

• Inspect the faucet head for obvious signs of damage or mineral buildup.

• Listen for sounds when turning the faucet on—if you hear gurgling or nothing at all, it may be a blockage or break.

• Check other outdoor faucets (if available) to see if it’s an isolated issue.

When to Call a Plumber

If you’ve ruled out a closed valve and simple blockages but still have no water, it’s time to bring in a licensed plumber. You could be dealing with a hidden leak, a burst pipe, or internal damage to your plumbing system.

Preventive Tips

• Winterize outdoor faucets before freezing temperatures hit.

• Regularly clean and inspect outdoor spigots.

• Install frost-proof hose bibs in colder climates or if your current setup is outdated.

A suddenly non-working outdoor faucet is more than just an inconvenience, it might be a sign of a larger plumbing problem. Whether it’s a closed valve, buildup, or pipe damage, identifying the issue early can save you from costly repairs. If you're unsure where the problem lies, let our team of trusted plumbers in Phoenix take a look.

Call Vertical Plumbing at (480) 577-8720