How to Lubricate Pipe Fittings

Every plumbing system benefits from properly lubricated fittings.

Pipe fittings serve as linking pieces between two lengths of plumbing pipe. These fittings can help adapt a pipe of one size to another of a different size, regulate flow of liquid or create a corner joint. Fittings are most often made of the same material as the pipes they are used with, most commonly steel, copper and PVC. With enough exposure to moisture, fittings can become rusted to their pipes and require lubrication.

Things You'll Need

• Lubricant for fittings
• Pipe wrench
• Oil-based lubricant
• Small brush

Instructions

1. Turn off the water to your house. Turn the main valve, usually located outside your house in the front or back yard.

2. Spray lubricant such as PB Blaster or Liquid Wrench onto the fittings and securing bolt if they are rusted to the surrounding pipes. Let the spray settle for a minute or two.

3. Loosen the securing bolt on either wide of the fitting with your pipe wrench. Move the bolt so you can access the threads of the pipe and fitting.

4. Apply a coat of oil-based lubricant to the threads of both the pipe and fitting with a small brush. Repeat for each fitting that requires lubrication.

5. Move the fitting back into place and rethread the securing bolt so that it connects the pipe and fitting.

6. Tighten the securing bolt with your pipe wrench.

7. Turn back on the water to your house. Let the water run through the pipes to flush out excess lubricant.

Tips & Warnings

• If the bolt or fitting are stubborn, apply more lubricant as needed. If this does not work, you may wish to contact a plumber.

• Always turn off the main water valve before doing any plumbing work. Not doing so can result in flooding or other interior damages.

References

• Mr. Hardware: Rusted Pipe