How to Repair a Leaky Pipe with a Compression Fitting
Leaky pipes can be a frustrating and costly problem for homeowners. Not only can they waste water and increase your utility bills, but they can also cause damage to your walls, floors, and ceilings. One of the most common causes of leaky pipes is a faulty compression fitting. Fortunately, repairing a leaky pipe with a compression fitting is a relatively simple process that can be completed with a few basic tools and materials.
What is a Compression Fitting?
A compression fitting is a type of pipe connector that is used to join two pipes together. It consists of a ferrule (a small metal ring) and a nut that compresses the ferrule onto the pipe, creating a watertight seal. Compression fittings are commonly used in plumbing systems because they are easy to install and can be used with a variety of pipe materials, including copper, PEX, and PVC.
Tools and Materials Needed
To repair a leaky pipe with a compression fitting, you will need the following tools and materials:
- Adjustable wrench or basin wrench
- Needle-nose pliers
- Teflon tape or pipe dope
- Replacement compression fitting (if necessary)
- Pipe cutter or tubing cutter (if necessary)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Turn off the Water Supply: Before you start repairing the leaky pipe, you need to turn off the water supply to the pipe. Locate the shut-off valve and turn it clockwise to shut off the water supply.
- Disassemble the Compression Fitting: Use an adjustable wrench or basin wrench to loosen the nut on the compression fitting. Once the nut is loose, you can use needle-nose pliers to remove the ferrule from the pipe.
- Inspect the Pipe: Inspect the pipe for any signs of damage or corrosion. If the pipe is damaged, you may need to cut out the damaged section and replace it with a new piece of pipe.
- Clean the Pipe: Use a wire brush or sandpaper to clean the pipe and remove any debris or corrosion.
- Reassemble the Compression Fitting: Place the ferrule back onto the pipe, making sure it is seated properly. Then, thread the nut back onto the compression fitting and tighten it by hand.
- Tighten the Compression Fitting: Use an adjustable wrench or basin wrench to tighten the nut on the compression fitting. Make sure it is tightened securely, but do not overtighten, as this can damage the pipe or compression fitting.
- Apply Teflon Tape or Pipe Dope: Apply a small amount of Teflon tape or pipe dope to the threads of the compression fitting to help create a watertight seal.
- Turn on the Water Supply: Once the compression fitting is reassembled and tightened, turn on the water supply and check for leaks.
Tips and Precautions
- Make sure to turn off the water supply to the pipe before starting the repair to avoid water damage and flooding.
- Use a bucket or container to catch any water that may spill out of the pipe during the repair.
- Be careful not to overtighten the compression fitting, as this can damage the pipe or compression fitting.
- If you are not comfortable with DIY plumbing repairs, it is recommended to hire a professional plumber to repair the leaky pipe.
Conclusion
Repairing a leaky pipe with a compression fitting is a relatively simple process that can be completed with a few basic tools and materials. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can fix a leaky pipe and save money on your water bill. Remember to always turn off the water supply to the pipe before starting the repair, and be careful not to overtighten the compression fitting. If you are not comfortable with DIY plumbing repairs, it is recommended to hire a professional plumber to repair the leaky pipe.