4 Methods For Fixing A Pinhole Leak In A Copper Pipe
If you have copper plumbing in your home, it is possible that one of the exposed pipes develops a pinhole leak at some point. It can happen at any time, either due to corrosion or damage caused by a water line freezing. Here are some methods for dealing with a pinhole leak in copper plumbing.
Use A Copper Pipe Patch
If you have the ability to solder the copper pipe, you can create a simple patch if you have two couplings and an extra piece of copper pipe. You should turn off the water so that the water stops flowing through the pipe, then cut out the damaged section of the pipe. Cut a replacement pipe section that is an exact fit for the section removed. Then place two copper couplings over both ends of the pipe, slide in the replacement section, and hold it in place by sliding the couplings over. You can then solder the couplings to the old and new pipe to create a simple patch.
Use A Compression Coupling
A method that does not require welding will use compression couplings. It's similar to the copper pipe patch, but the couplings grip tightly around the pipe when the bolt is secured tightly around them. If you have the tools on hand to cut out the pipe, you can even do this repair on your own.
Use A Slip Coupling
Another method that doesn't require soldering is a slip coupling. Once you've cut out the damaged section of the pipe to match the size of the slip coupling, it will slip over one end of the pipe and back over the other. The fitting grips tightly to the pipe, so you do not need to worry about not securing a bolt tightly around the pipe.
Use An Emergency Repair Clamp
Even if you do not have any home improvement skills, it is possible to replace a pinhole leak with an emergency pipe clamp. They are designed for specific sizes of pipes, so many sure you have the right measurement in mind before you head out to your local home improvement store. The clamp snaps on over the pipe tightly and stops the water from coming through. It doesn't require any special tools or skills, but it is only a temporary way to stop the repair. This should buy you some time until a plumber can come and make the repair for you.
For more information on how to improve your plumbing, contact your local professionals.