If you've noticed a leak coming from your kitchen sink, it's important to address the issue right away to prevent further damage and potential water waste. One of the most common causes of a leaky kitchen sink is a faulty connection between the PVC drain and copper pipe. Luckily, this is a relatively easy fix that you can do on your own with some basic tools and materials. Follow these steps to fix a leaky kitchen sink drain pipe and get your sink back in working order.How to Fix a Leaky Kitchen Sink Drain Pipe | DoItYourself.com
The first step in fixing a leaky kitchen sink drain pipe is to determine where the leak is coming from. Carefully inspect the area around the connection between the PVC drain and copper pipe. If you see any signs of water or moisture, you've likely found the source of the leak.1. Assess the Leak
Before beginning any repairs, it's important to turn off the water supply to your sink. This will prevent any water from flowing while you work and potentially making the leak worse. Look for the shut-off valves under your sink and turn them off.2. Turn Off the Water Supply
To fix the leak, you'll need some basic tools and materials. This includes a pipe wrench, PVC primer and cement, a pipe cutter or hacksaw, and a new PVC pipe and fittings if needed. Make sure you have everything on hand before starting the repair.3. Gather Materials
Using your pipe wrench, loosen and remove the nut and washer from the threaded end of the PVC drain. Then, use a pipe cutter or hacksaw to cut the PVC pipe just above the connection to the copper pipe. Carefully remove the old PVC pipe and clean the area to prepare for the new pipe.4. Remove the Old Pipe
If your old PVC pipe was damaged or corroded, it's best to replace it with a new one. Measure the length of the old pipe and cut the new one to the same length. Then, use the pipe cutter or hacksaw to cut a small notch in the end of the PVC pipe to allow for the O-ring to fit properly.5. Prepare the New Pipe
Using the primer and cement, coat the inside of the new PVC pipe and the outside of the copper pipe connection. This will create a strong bond between the two materials and prevent any future leaks. Be sure to follow the instructions on the primer and cement packaging for proper application.6. Apply Primer and Cement
Once the primer and cement have dried, carefully slide the new PVC pipe onto the copper pipe connection. Make sure the notch in the PVC pipe lines up with the O-ring. Then, tighten the nut and washer onto the threaded end of the PVC drain to secure the connection.7. Connect the Pipes
With the new pipe in place, turn the water supply back on and check for any leaks. If there are no leaks, your repair is complete. If there are still leaks, you may need to tighten the connection or apply more primer and cement to create a stronger bond.8. Turn the Water Supply Back On
Once you're confident that the leak has been fixed, clean up any excess primer and cement and put away your tools. Run some water through your sink to make sure everything is working properly.9. Clean Up
To prevent any future leaks, it's important to monitor the connection between the PVC drain and copper pipe. Check for any signs of moisture or water regularly and address any issues right away to avoid more serious damage. With these simple steps, you can easily fix a leaky kitchen sink drain pipe and save yourself from potential water waste and costly repairs. Remember to always turn off the water supply before starting any repairs and follow the instructions for the primer and cement carefully. If you're not comfortable doing these repairs on your own, don't hesitate to call a professional plumber for assistance.10. Monitor for Future Leaks