View Full Version : Water leaking out from under pipe in basement (picts)
mamakins
Jul 9, 2009, 12:31 PM
I hope someone can give me an idea of what the problem might be. This became noticeable after the water company changed the meter downstairs. It seems a very drip drip type leak is coming from the basement wall directly underneath the pipe. When I look closely I see a small crack under the pipe. Should I just seal up the crack or is there a more serious problem going on? Any help you can give me is greatly appreciated!
afaroo
Jul 9, 2009, 12:36 PM
You need to replace the elbow, Thanks.
John
letmetellu
Jul 9, 2009, 07:48 PM
You could have a major leak at any time, I am not sure you should try to replace this ell and maybe some pipe yourself unless you are experienced with soldering copper pipe. A person who is might do it with out tearing into the cement wall, you might not.
hkstroud
Jul 9, 2009, 08:41 PM
I agree with letmetellu, that may be a difficult solder. The concrete will take the heat away from the pipe quite fast. Good place for a sharkbite fitting. That fitting has been leaking for a long time.
KISS
Jul 9, 2009, 09:23 PM
YuK! Ditto. Not sure which way is in.
A difficult solder job. The electrical system bond also causes issues too. The joint is probably 50/50 lead as well and changing to lead free requires care too. Not for the inexperienced.
The valve should be replaced with a ball valve and there is usually a valve on both sides of the meter.