Fix Leaking Pipes
You can run up a big water bill in a hurry if you get a leak in your pipes. You need to know how to fix it fast until you can do a full repair or call a plumber. With a few steps, you can stop the leak temporarily and still have running water.
Contents
Steps
Stop the Leak Until You Can Repair or Replace the Pipe
- Shut off the water valve to the pipe.
- Turn on the faucets to drain the water that is left in the pipes.
- Wipe the pipe dry with a towel or cloth. Allow it to air dry completely before continuing.
- Use a putty knife to put some epoxy on the leaking area.
- Cover the leak with rubber. Make sure it is completely covered before moving to the next step.
- Tighten a clamp down on the rubber and allow it to set for an hour.
- Use water resistant tape to cover the rubber after it has dried. This will serve as double protection.
- Turn the water valve back on and make sure there is no leak.
Cut Out the Pipe if it Has a Large Leak
- Measure the size of the pipe and buy a replacement at your local plumbing or home improvement store.
- Shut off the water and drain the pipes.
- Use a metal cutting saw to cut out the damaged piece of pipe.
- Polish the ends of the remaining pipes.
- Solder the new piece in place if it is a copper pipe. Other types of piping will allow you to buy a replacement that has a union piece to join them.
- Tighten the coupling of the joining piece to make sure it is secure and doesn’t leak.
- Turn the water back on.
Tips
- Keep supplies on hand so you can fix the leak quickly.
- Don’t wait very long to replace the leaking pipe even if the leak has stopped. If you do not have the tools to replace the pipe, contact a professional.
Warnings
- If you are soldering the pipe into place, wear safety goggles and gloves.
Things You’ll Need
- Rubber tape
- Dry cloth
- Epoxy
- Clamp
- Water resistant tape
- New pipe
- Soldering equipment
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