DIY: Leaky Pipe Repair

Before you can even begin to think about fixing a leaky pipe, you need to stop the leak. This will ensure the least amount of plumbing and water damage to your home. Fixing the leak might be a little trickier, but give it shot and know that you can always call the plumbing experts at Cartwright’s Plumbing, Heating & Cooling if you need some assistance.

Stopping the Leak

Once discovered, stopping the leak should be your main priority. If you know you have a leak but are unsure of how to find it, our technicians have state-of-the-art equipment and expertise to locate the leak. Stopping the leak will also make replacing the damaged pipe much easier in the future.

1. Shut off water valve to prevent water flow to the leak.
2. Turn any faucets connected to the link on or use an air compressor to remove water remaining in the leaking pipe.
3. Wipe the pipe dry with a towel or cloth and allow it to air dry before addressing the area.
4. Seal the leak with these two popular options:
   1. An old plumber’s trick, stick the tip of a sharp pencil in the hole and break off the lead tip so that it plugs the hole. Next, cover the leak with epoxy using a putty knife.
   2. Simply apply epoxy to the leak area.
5. Cover the leak area with rubber or gardening hose cut roughly 2 inches longer than the leak. Apply the rubber or hose around the leak and hold tightly in place with metal hose clamps for at least one hour.
6. Make sure the leaking area and rubber/hose is completely dry and then apply waterproof tape in several layers around the leak area.
7. Turn water back on and check to make sure there are no further leaks.

Fixing the Leak

While the above provides a great temporary solution for small leaks, it does not guarantee a permanent fix. If you feel you are capable of permanently fixing the leak on your own, below are the appropriate steps to do so.

You will first need to run to a local plumbing or hardware store to purchase supplies needed to complete this project. These include replacement piping (length must be determined first), emery cloth, silver solder, solder flux, a fitting brush and a torch.

1. Turn on any faucets connected to the leak or use an air compressor to remove any water remaining within the pipe.
2. Remove the damaged section of pipe with either a hacksaw or pipe cutter.
3. Polish the inside and outside of both current and replacement pipes using the emery cloth and fitting brush.
4. Apply soldering flux lightly to each side of piping you are going to solder.
5. Solder new pipe into place and allow it to cool.
6. Turn water back on and make sure no further leak is present.

We’ve been fixing leaky pipes and other plumbing emergencies in New Mexico for over 80 years. Give Cartwright’s Plumbing, Heating & Cooling a call at 505-216-2507 or schedule service online for service today.