I wanna fix my leaking copper pipe under the sink

ltlmiles5

Does anyone know any websites that give good clear instructions including pictures on how to repair my leaking copper pipe under the sink? We might have to replace the whole pipe as it seems rusty.

We've not done plumbing before, but am quite willing to learn. We'll have to change some washers as well as our taps are dripping, so we thought if it's not too difficult, we could purchase everything that we need in the sales.

zincoxide

Try this website for help

http://www.howtomendit.com

ltlmiles5

Thanks. I have had a look at the website. It didn't seem to have an answer to my problem, so I have posted my question there, and hopefully, I'll get a reply.

Browntoa

there as push fit connectors now for plumbing that make the whole job really easy , just cut the pipe back and put one on the end (best to use a proper pipe cutter to get a clean edge !) then put in either a new piece of copper pipe or plastic pipe to brodge the two !!

you can also get push fit connectors for taps if that makes the reconnection easier at that end

ltlmiles5

Thanks Browntoa! I've just found this website https://www.screwfix.com which stocks lots of different things and also has a chat section. I'll be looking for more info on this there. It doesn't sound too difficult.... (it always seems easier till you do it, I guess).
I noticed you're from Medway too. Hi!

Browntoa

I've used push fits to move a radiator and I'm no plumber

little plumbers shop near the top of Chatham hill/Rock Avenue where the guys are really helpful

trinnylilac

I have used push fit fittings before and they are very easy to use. B&Q stock them quite cheeply also. As suggested you do need a proper pipe sice and also buy some wire wool. When you cut your peice of pipe run the wire wool round the outside edge where you will attach your fitting as it gives it a good key. Also pay slightly more and get the push fits that you can undo and reuse. If you use the one use only ones and you don't get it on correctly first time, too bad as it will still be stuck fast to the pipe.

Good luck!

Horlock

You can also get liquid nitrogen? in a can to spray on the offending pipe which will freeze the water in the pipe while you work - thus saving you getting wet while working

ltlmiles5

Thanks for all your advice! After reading up on some advice on https://www.screwfix.com, I was all ready to find out the measurements of the pipe and order my tools, when I realised I couldn't find where the leak was!!!

We've put a bowl down there, and every so often we'll find some water there. I've run both taps, but all I see is a bit of condensation on the cold water tap, but can't see any drips even though I've sat there watching with a torch!!! Now I feel really silly as I don't even know if there is a leak...
but there must be, if water collects in a bowl, right?

Help!

roswell

Your best bet to find a leak is turn the lights off ,,, no seriousely , turn the lights off and shine a torch along the pipes any escaping water will reflect the light :-)