• When will my pipe leak?

    Oct.13.2010

    I was replacing the water intake piping going into the toilet. I only used one wrench and broke the PVC pipe in the wall. I got stuff such as new piping and PVC glue to fix the PVC pipe in the wall. (I had to cut a little of the wall.) My question is this: if the pipe is going to leak, will it leak right away or is it possible to leak later on? Honestly, if it didn't cost much I would just have someone look at it.

    Richard, Scottsdale, AZ

    The short answer is yes. Since water lines are under constant pressure (50 to 70 psi), if the pipe is going to leak it would most likely leak within a few minutes. To ensure a good permanent pipe repair follow these steps: 1. Make certain you properly identify the type of pipe in your home; there are 2 possibilities: (a) PVC (Poly Vinyl Chloride) is white in color. (b) CPVC pipe (Chlorinated Poly Vinyl Chloride) is off-white in color; most cities today require CPVC for indoor potable water. You can buy either type at most home improvement centers. 2. Make sure that you cut the pipe in the wall so it has a clean straight end. Also make sure you remove any burrs or rough edges on the inside and outside of the pipe that may have resulted from cutting the pipe. 3. Be certain the pipe and pipe fittings are dry and free of dirt and oils. 4. Before you apply the glue, “dry fit” everything together to make sure things line up. 5. Some glues require the use of primer before you apply the glue. Be sure to read and follow all of the manufacturer’s directions carefully and apply primer if required. 6. Again, following the manufacturer’s directions, allow for the appropriate drying and setup time before you turn the water back on. 7. When everything is dry, slowly turn the water back on and check for any signs of leaks. If you follow these simple steps you should not have any issues. You may want to consider contacting a professional plumbing contractor, such as the ARS/Rescue Rooter branch in Tempe, AZ at (602) 253-9750, for assistance with this issue

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