How Do You Seal Leaks Around Compression Fittings For Copper Water Pipes?
Compression fittings for copper water pipes usually connect appliances that will eventually need replacing, such as toilets or refrigerators. They are easy to install and to remove. They work by compressing a brass ferrule against both the copper pipe and the inside walls of the fitting. Occasionally the fittings leak because they were not properly tightened in the first place. To fix a leak, first try carefully tightening the nut on the fitting. If that doesn’t work, you can replace the ferrule to make a new seal. Hold the base of the compression fitting with one wrench and loosen the nut one-quarter of a turn with the other wrench. Then tighten the nut one-half of a turn. Loosening the nut first breaks loose any corrosion and makes tightening it easier. Wipe the fitting dry with the paper towel. Watch the fitting closely to see if the leaking has stopped. If leaking or seeping continues, continue tightening the fitting one-quarter of a turn at a time until the leaking stops. If the l
