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View Full Version : Leaking Compression Valve


holmbino89
Jul 24, 2009, 01:39 PM
I am remodeling my bathroom. I quickly realized that I do not have any means to shut off the water to the faucet (other than the main line to the house) unless I install a shut-off valve under the sink. In the process of doing this, I carefully removed the old 90 degree bend, cleaned the extruding pipe with emery cloth, and cut the pipe back behind where the old compression ferrule was. I then installed the new compression type 1/4 turn shut off valve.
It leaked from the compression ring side. So I tightened the compression ring. It still leaked. So I tightened a little more... until I overtightened it and it leaked from both sides.
I removed the whole assembly, reinstalled with a new ferrule, hand tightened, then tightened 1/2 turn with the wrenches. It leaked from the valve side. I tightened another 1/4 turn with wrenches. More leaking from the valve side. Another 1/4 turn of the compression ring. More leaking from the valve side.
I removed the whole assembly. Cleaned up the copper tubing with emery cloth again. Cut the tubing back once more. Installed a whole new compression valve with new ferrule, and this time I even used Teflon tape on the threads of the valve.
It still leaked, albeit only a little. So I gave it one more 1/4 turn with the wrenches. It still leaks.
What am I doing wrong here, and how do I most easily fix my problem? Do I need to replace the copper tubing from the wall with a new piece to ensure the integrity of the tubing? Should I just attempt to sweat/solder on a shut-off valve? Is there a way to salvage the compression fitting since its so much easier to remove and install?

Milo Dolezal
Jul 24, 2009, 02:47 PM
Looks like you are doing it right. I must admit, you get better with practice. Yes, you could have dented the pipe a bit and now it is not sealing properly. You can go to Home Depot and buy BrassCraft valve that has SharkBite like end. You just push it on and that is. No tools required. But still, I would suggest that you cut the pipe couple of inches anyway to get to healthy, perfectly round piece..