How to Fix a Leak in Copper Pipe Without Having to Solder
This article will show how to fix a leak in a copper pipe without the need for soldering. It will show how to do this using brass fittings called compression fittings. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- Brass compression fittings
- Hack saw or,
- Copper pipe cutter
- Two large adjustable wrenches
- Sand paper
- Extra lengths of the pipe size you are dealing with.
Instructions
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The picture shows what a compression fitting looks like. There are different sizes so you need to get the right size to fit your pipe. You may have to make a copy of this picture to take to the hardware store with you and get help from a clerk to get the right thing. The compression fittings consist of a main body, nuts and ferrules.
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Once the water is shut off and the pipes drained you will need to cut the pipe in convenient spots so as to remove the portion that is leaking. Be sure to leave enough pipe protruding so you and get the nut and ferrule from the compression fitting onto the pipe. If you have or can purchase a pipe cutter (see photo) this job is a snap. If you don't have a pipe cutter you can use a hacksaw. This author is assuming everyone knows what a hacksaw looks like. Using a hacksaw will make this job a little more difficult yet still possible.
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Once you have cut away the bad pipe you need to clean the remaining pipe with sand paper where the compression ferrules are to be placed. From your extra pipe you need to cut new pipe to fill in what was cut away.
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Tips & Warnings
If you don't understand the fittings or tools described here ask your hardware attendant for assistance. I'm sure they will be able to show you how this all works.
Brace yourself when using a hacksaw. It can slip and cut you.
- Photo Credit Personal Photos.