My Plumbing Compression Fittings Won't Tighten
Compression fittings rely on clean, straight sections of pipe to be properly connected. The fittings use locking nuts on either side of the fitting to create a tight bond with the pipe, which sits inside the fitting. Understanding more about how compression fittings work and how to ensure a proper connection will help keep your fittings working without a leak for years. Does this Spark an idea?
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How Compression Fittings Work
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Compression fittings are a good alternative to using solder and flux to "sweat" a pipe connection together because compression fittings don't require the use of solder, heat or flames. Instead, the fittings use pipe threads to tighten a locking nut around the outside of a pipe. As you turn the nut, it clamps down on the fitting and the outside of the pipe. This compressing action seals the bond between the pipe and the fitting.
Reasons the Connection Might Not Tighten
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Several reasons account for why a compression fitting won't tighten properly or fit correctly. One of the most important things to remember is that the threads on the compression fitting must be lubricated before tightening. Apply a few drops of oil or WD-40 onto the threads around the compression ring. The lubrication will help tighten the connection properly. Old compression fittings also should not be used more than once. You might reuse a fitting in rare circumstances, but compression fittings are mostly designed to be used only once. A fitting that fails to tighten may be used.
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How to Use Compression Fittings
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Compression fittings are designed to be used in applications where the pipes will not be pulled on. Because compression fittings are not soldered together, they are susceptible to movement and stress. Movement will dislodge the connection over time and cause a leak or flood. For that reason, they should never be used in applications where the pipe will come under any form of movement. Compression fittings that connect two pipes, lengthening the overall length of a pipe, should never be used unless the connection will never be subjected to movement.
Making the Connection
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To make a compression connection, you must first clean the edge of the pipe. For copper pipes, use a fine-grit sandpaper to smooth down the edges of the pipe and the outside surface. Sand to a bright polish before inserting the pipe into the compression fitting. For plastic pipes, inspect the end of the line for signs of wear. Cracks on the end of a plastic pipe can splinter over time in a compression fitting, leading to leaks in the line.
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