Replies

1. GBA Editor
   Martin Holladay | May 14, 2014 01:54pm | #1

   Kenneth,
   Plumbing repairs require common sense.

   Is there flowing water elsewhere in the house?

   Where is the nearest plumbing fixture with cold water that flows adequately?

   Have you looked at all valves in the line?

   To diagnose potential problems, turn off a valve inside the house and disassemble the sillcock. Re-assemble the sillcock if everything looks normal.

   Then unscrew or cut the pipe or tubing downstream from the next valve. Turn on the valve. If you have water flow, install a new coupling and a new sillcock.

2. 
   STEPHEN SHEEHY | May 14, 2014 03:34pm | #2

   He may have a so-called freezeproof sillcock. Mine tend to not flow once in a while, but a gentle rap with a stick usually frees it up.

3. GBA Editor
   Martin Holladay | May 14, 2014 03:40pm | #3

   Stephen,
   I should have thought of that. It works with VCRs, TVs, car starters, and frostproof sillcocks.
   When in doubt, the first step is always to hit it with a stick.

4. 
   STEPHEN SHEEHY | May 14, 2014 07:53pm | #4

   Martin
   And the next step is a bigger stick :-)

5. Expert Member
   MALCOLM TAYLOR | May 14, 2014 08:36pm | #5

   Works on neighbours too.

6. 
   shimbag | May 21, 2014 02:20pm | #6

   Thanks for the advice, I pulled it apart and freed up the spring at the end of the stem. OK now but I will be replacing the washers etc. Thank you