Leaking Pipe Under the Sink? Your Quick-Fix Guide

Learning to fix home problems yourself is an important life skill. Even if you can’t do a full “home improvements” project, you can often assemble quick fixes to get yourself out of a bind.

One of the most common problems underneath the sink plumbing fixtures is a leaking pipe. A leaking pipe under the sink can create all sorts of damage to cabinets and floors, but even worse it can cause significant water damage.

Read on and we’ll walk you through some of the most common leaking pipe under sink fixes you can do yourself.

Assess the Problem

You should first identify the source of the leak and determine whether you can fix it yourself. If it is a minor issue, such as a loose connection or a cracked pipe, you should be able to take care of it yourself.

However, if the pipe has been damaged by water damage, you will need to contact a plumber or another qualified professional to repair the pipe. Additionally, you should inspect the rest of the plumbing in the area to ensure that there is no damage that could cause additional problems.

Tighten Loose Connections

Start by turning off the main water valve, then locate the leaking connection. Remove the pipe and check the seal of the nut and the joint for any cracks or wear and tear. Use a wrench to tighten the nut, starting from the middle and working your way outwards.

If this does not stop the leak you can try adding plumber’s putty to the joint. If the putty does not work you may have to replace the pipe and nut entirely.

Replacing the Sink Strainer

If the strainer is old and appears to be worn down, you’ll want to replace it as soon as possible. Remove the old leaking sink drain strainer and inspect the sink flange for damage. If it’s still intact, you can replace the strainer with a new one – some come with a rubber washer to seal the connection.

If the old strainer was worn out, make sure the new one matches the size and model. Also, make sure to apply a layer of the plumber’s putty or silicone sealant on threads before connecting the strainer to the sink.

Replace Seals and Gaskets

Often, the source of the leak is old and worn seals and gaskets. To replace these, you will need a set of replacement seals and gaskets that fit the pipe at the point of the leak.

When you have the right seals and gaskets, you can shut off the water supply, disconnect the leaking pipes under sink, and then remove the old seals and gaskets. Once this is done, you can install the new seals and gaskets and reconnect the pipes, then turn the water supply back on.

If the problem is more than just leaky pipes under the sink, it is best to find a professional that could assess the situation and fix the problem for you. Click here to find out more about leak repairs and how a professional plumber could help your kitchen and bath.

Fixing a Leaking Pipe Under Sink

Leaking pipe under sink can be a headache, but they don’t have to be! By following the steps outlined in this guide to fix a leaking pipe under your own sink, you can safely and efficiently get the job done yourself.

Don’t wait, take on the challenge today and see the results for yourself! Don’t stop getting smart about your home yet!

Keep browsing our great articles so you can put all this newfound smart to good use.