Helpful Plumbing Videos: How to Fix Leaky Pipes
- Determine the location of the leak. Start with the supply line and, using a paper towel, run it along the line to see where the water is coming from. If the supply line is dry, try doing the same with the drain line.
- If the leak is on the supply line, use channel locks to tighten the fittings (turning clockwise).
- On the drain fittings, loosen the fittings and check the seal ring to see if it is damaged or needs to be reseated.
- For PVC drain lines, hand-tighten only — do NOT use a wrench. Avoid overtightening the fittings as they can crack very easily.
Bob Cole's Tips
- Turn off the water at the main water valve to relieve the water pressure in the line.
- Even a small leak can cause big problems, rotting away and ruining everything around it. Left unchecked, small leaks can develop into big leaks that cause major damage.
Please note that Cole Plumbing provides this information as a courtesy to the public and cannot
be held responsible for any problems or issues that may be caused by do-it-yourself repairs.
If you are uncomfortable working on your plumbing yourself, we strongly suggest that you
contact a professional plumber and have them
do it for you.