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    KitchenIntermediate

    Fix Leaky Kitchen Pipe

    Time
    60–120 min
    Steps
    6
    Pre-check
    3 items
    Skill
    Intermediate

    Scope

    Find and stop supply or drain leaks under the kitchen sink, from compression fittings to the P-trap, then test the repair so the cabinet stays dry.

    Safety

    Read before starting

    Shut off water; use eye protection when cutting; dry area before electrical outlets.

    Pre-Check

    3 items · complete before you start
    0 / 20 complete

    Steps

    01

    Assess & Prep

    • Dry area; observe leak source
    • Clear cabinet; protect surfaces
    P-Trap & Vent (Trap Seal)· Plumbing
    Continue Gate:Leak source clearly identified?
    02

    Tighten/Reseat

    • Snug compression nuts while holding opposing fitting
    • Reseat washers/gaskets if dripping at joints
    03

    Temporary Clamp (if body leak)

    • Clean and sand pipe
    • Center clamp over leak; tighten evenly
    Continue Gate:Leak slowed/stopped?
    04

    Replace Section (permanent)

    • Measure and mark the damaged section, then cut out cleanly with tubing cutter or saw
    • Deburr and clean cut ends so fittings seat squarely
    • Dry fit replacement section and fittings; mark orientation before final assembly
    • Assemble by pipe type: soldered copper (clean, flux, heat, solder) or compression/slip per fitting instructions
    • Secure and support the run so joints are not stressed by vibration or misalignment
    • Restore water slowly and inspect each new joint for leaks
    Code notes
    • On potable water, solder and flux must be lead-free: ≤0.2% lead (SDWA §1417). Use 95/5 tin-antimony or tin-silver alloys; do not use old 50/50 tin-lead solder.
    • Wetted-surface fittings and valves must carry NSF/ANSI/CAN 61 + NSF/ANSI/CAN 372 certification.
    Continue Gate:Joints aligned and supported?
    05

    Reassemble & Seal

    • Use tape/compound per fitting type
    • Reconnect supply/drain; respect washer orientation
    Continue Gate:All joints secure?
    06

    Restore & Test

    • Turn on water gradually
    • Check for leaks for several minutes
    • Wipe dry and re-check later