Tackling problems can seem like a daunting task if you’re not familiar with it. It’s scary to tackle a repair project if you don’t know how to fix whatever is broken. There are many possible reasons for what could have caused the problem, from the most minor to the most urgent.
Leaking pipes can be an unfortunate and costly circumstance in the home. Adding to the mess, if left unattended, extensive water damage can occur.
Fortunately, it’s easier to fix than you think!
We’ll go through some common problems and their solutions here so you can deal with this situation if it comes up again.
Step by step guide on how to fix a leaking sink pipe
Step 1: Locate the problem
This can be done by several methods, but the most common is simply listening to see where the water is coming from. If you hear dripping or leaking sounds in your home, there’s probably a problem somewhere nearby.
If you can not locate the leaktake a bucket or large container, a towel and flashlights to illuminate dark areas.
- Make sure you clean your sink so it’s free of dishes
- If you can, turn off the faucet
- Place a large bowl under the dripping faucet to collect the water. By isolating this problem, you should be able to find out if something else is causing the leak through this process of elimination
- When the sink is not in use, does it leak? A leak when the water does not flow may be a problem with the supply line
- Turn on the tap and place a bowl. Is the water leaking? Where from? This will help you identify what needs to be fixed
Step 2: Determine the type of leak
If the leak is coming from a pressurized pipe, you may see water spray far from its source or hear it throughout the house.
If the drain seal is broken and water is leaking underneath, you may not notice that the sink has started to fill with water – you’ll only know there’s a problem when it starts to overflow.
If a leak is coming from the drain line, you may notice a pool of water.
Carefully investigate the areas around the sink determine what kind of leak you haveand then take the appropriate steps.
Step 3: Replace the P trap
When you buy a new P-trap, bring the old one and any pipes that were removed when it was installed. The kit should include all parts required for installation.
The new kit must have siphon P and pipes with exactly the same dimensions as the original. Otherwise, they won’t fit properly!
Step 4: Screw the new pipe vertically
To connect the drain pipe to the bottom of the sink drain, use the widest section of PVC pipe. Hold this piece by the threads under the sink drain and screw in a nut.
Step 5: Install P-Trap
Install the nuts and washers on the pickup arm and the vertical drain pipe. The narrow ends of the flush point should point towards the open end so the water can flow without backing into your cabinet.
Place the P trap over the end of each pipe and, with a screwdriver, secure it in place by tightening the slide nuts on each connection point.
Step 6: Test the trap for leaks
Once you are sure the trap is installed correctly, turn on the water and test it for leaks. Check your connections to make sure they are tight if you find leaks.
If you still have a leak, it may be time to call in the professionals. Repairing P-traps can be difficult and requires the right tools and knowledge. If you’re not sure how to fix your P-trap, contact a local plumbing company.
Fixing minor leaks
If the leak is not coming from the drain line, try to repair it.
If you have a slow leak in a faucet that drips every few minutes, for example, you may be able to fix it by simply tightening the screw on the handle. If you have a slow leak that drips every few minutes, you may be able to fix it by simply tightening the screw on the handle.
If there is structural damage to the pipes or the joints are no longer sealing properly, contact a plumber immediately to fix the problem.
The following are some ways to try to fix a leak yourself.
1. Pipe clamps
Clamps have two parts: a metal fastener and a rubber gasket.
Be sure to get one for the specific pipe size to establish a tight seal.
Place the gasket over the drain section of the pipe and tighten it in place, ensuring contact with both surfaces. The clamp must be placed securely on the gasket so that no water escapes.
2. Tighten the fittings
If a pipe is leaking, a possible cause would be a loose slip nut – that’s where two pipes join.
Go under the sink and find the slip nut that connects the standpipe to the drain.
Avoid over-tightening the nutsor you can damage them.
Flush the water down the drain to check for leaks.
3. Replace worn gaskets at pipe connections
Remove the old gaskets. If your sink has rubber gaskets, they can be difficult to remove. Use a flathead screwdriver to gently and carefully remove them.
If they’re in particularly bad shape, use pliers or a utility knife to cut the rest off so you can remove them completely.
Clean all debris from inside the pipes and in front of the faucet stem using a small brush or pipe cleaner. This will ensure that you get rid of any dirt that might prevent the new gaskets from sealing properly against the surface where they connect to the pipes and faucet stem.
Measure how long each new rubber seal should be based on how far each pipe needs to run; then cut it with scissors or wire cutters so it fits perfectly.
4. Two-part epoxy putty
Knead the hardener and base together well, making sure they are well mixed. When mixed, a two-part epoxy putty forms an impenetrable barrier around your pipe.
Put the putty on the gap and gently press it so that it spreads the hole completely. Allow the grout to cure for as long as recommended on the package, then run water down the drain.
Grout is effective in stopping leaks; however, it is not recommended as a long-term solution.
5. Installer tape
To create a tight seal, plumber’s caulk should be wrapped around the pipe threads and slide nuts before screwing them into place.
Begin wrapping plumber’s tape around the wire at one end of your drain. overlapping each shell by half its width. Continue until you reach the other side, then cut off any excess tape and reattach the drain before washing again to check for leaks.
To ensure the pipe is securely attached to the drain, screw it back to retain the spiral of the tape.
6. Self-securing silicone tape
Silicone tape is best for repairing leaks where multiple joints converge and water pressure tends to be low.
Tape the drain by wrapping it tightly around the pipe. Overlap half of each layer of tape with successive layers to create a tight seal on both parts of the repair.
The silicone tape is coated with a material that prevents it from establishing a pipe bond. However, thanks to this coating, the tape sticks well, but can be easily removed later. This means you can use silicone tape on different types and sizes of pipes.
7. Unscrew the sliding nuts
Locate the standpipe, loosen its slide nuts and disconnect it from the main body.
Remove each section of pipe as you go and follow the water line until you reach the horizontal connection.
8. Replacing the sink filter
Replacing the sink filter is often a simple process this can be done in a few minutes. The steps below will guide you through this task.
Step 1: Turn off the water supply to the sink.
Step 2: Remove the old strainer from the pipe by loosening the nut at the base with a pair of adjustable pliers.
Step 3: Remove debris from inside the sink drain with pliers or other tools such as an old toothbrush or vegetable brush.
Step 4: Install the new screen in place by following these steps in reverse order. You may need to apply pressure to seat it properly in the retaining nut if it has been a while since you removed it.
Final thoughts
It always helps to be able to handle any household maintenance yourself rather than having to seek professional help. We hope this guide was helpful and you now know how to fix a leaking pipe.
This can be quite a difficult job, so working carefully, being cautious and taking your time should prevent you from making the problem worse.
What’s your fix for a leaking sink? Tell us in the comments!
