Quick Fix For a Leaking Pipe

Fixing a Leaking Pipe
Any leaking pipe will eventually have to be replaced. However, there are temporary fixes you can do to help you get along until you have the time to replace it. Here are some tips to try:

1. When you see a leaky pipe, the first thing that you should do is shut off your main water supply.
2. To prevent water damage, get a bucket and stick it under the leaky pipe.
3. Try to find the exact location of the leak, and push a sharp pencil through the hole. Break off the tip of the pencil.
4. Using a towel, dry the pipe off as much as you can. Get some electrical tape and wrap it around the damaged area as tightly as you can. Cover at least 3 or 4 inches to either side of the leak. Cover the pipe with 2 to 3 layers of electrical tape. Don't overwrap it though, because it may be a fire hazard.
5. Get an old gardenhose and cut out a suitable lengthwise section. Wrap this around the leaky area in the pipe, with the solid part of the hose against the leak. Use hose clamps, locking pliers, or plastic cable ties to keep it in place.
6. Get a replacement pipe as soon as you can.

This little fix should allow you to turn on the main water valve, at least for a while. Turn off the local shut off to the pipe.

Better Fix for a Leaking Pipe
These tips should give you a little extra time to get a new pipe or call in a professional. However, they are only intended for small leaks. Large leaks need immediate attention from a professional.

Before trying these fixes, make sure you turn off you local water supply or the main water supply to your house. If you think that your leak might be too big than you are probably right - get a professional plumber to take a look at the pipe.

A.

B.

C.

Method A: Get a piece of garden hose or rubber matting and cut it lengthwise. Lay it down on top of the leak in the pipe. Using a sleeve clamp, secure it tightly.

Method B: Get a piece of heavy rubber matting and place it over the leak in the pipe. Secure it with a hose clamp that is adjustable.

Method C: Sometimes leaks occur where the pipe meets a joint. Try putting epoxy putty over the leak with a putty knife. Allow this putty to dry before turning the water back on.

Tip: If you've never done any plumbing repair, the secret to success is to practice first. Get a pipe that you don't intend to install, and practice the above methods on sections where the pipe is cracked. This will boost your confidence when the time comes to fix a real leaky pipe.