How to Repair a PVC Water Supply

PVC pipe repairs keep your plumbing in good condition.

Polyvinyl chloride, or PVC as it is commonly known, is a popular rigid, plastic polymer pipe used in a variety of applications. One such application is the plumbing inside your home. Although PVC pipes are very strong, they are still subject to cracks and damages because of water pressure or accidents. Luckily, you can repair a PVC water supply relatively easily if you have the right tools.

Things You'll Need

• Hacksaw
• Light sandpaper
• 6-foot section of PVC pipe
• 2 PVC couplers
• Can of PVC cement

Instructions

1. Follow the leak in your house to the source. Run your hands over the pipe to feel for damp areas or cracks. There may be more than one leak, so thoroughly check the full length of PVC pipe.

2. Turn off the main water supply. This will stop the leak, relieve the pressure on the pipe and enable you to work on the PVC unhindered.

3. Remove the damaged section of PVC. Draw a straight line about 2 inches from the damaged section on either side to indicate where to cut. Using a hacksaw, cut the PVC on the two lines and remove the section.

4. Clean the PVC pipes. The PVC on both sides may have some plastic debris attached from being cut. Rub some light sandpaper around the outside and inside edges to remove the debris. Take a soft cloth and rub the cut sections again to make sure everything is gone. Wipe the inside of the sections down with paper towels to remove any moisture in preparation for the PVC cement.

5. Apply PVC cement on the inside of one end of a coupler and the outside of one end of PVC pipe. Slide the coupler onto the pipe while turning it to ensure a tight fit. Repeat the same process on the other pipe.

6. Measure a new section of PVC pipe. Cut a length of PVC pipe to join the two ends of PVC plumbing. Test the length by dry-fitting it between the two couplers to ensure a snug fit.

7. Attach the new section of PVC. Put cement on the outside of the new section of PVC and the inside of one of the couplers and insert the pipe while turning it ensure a snug fit. Repeat this step on the opposite end. Allow the PVC cement to dry. Give the section at least 30 minutes before turning the water supply back on.

8. Turn on the water supply and check the repaired section for leaks.

Tips & Warnings

• Do not attempt to repair a pipe with the water supply on. You will only further damage the pipe, resulting in property damage and possible injury.

References

• Polyvinyl Chloride: Frequently Asked Questions about Polyvinyl Chloride
• This Old House: Gluing PVC Pipe
• Superpages: Can You Repair PVC Pipe?

Resources

• Home Tips: Home Water Supply Pipes