I have a leak under my kitchen sink. It looks like the "s" type pvc pipe. The part where it threads has a plastic washer in it. Do I replace the washer or use the pvc glue and cleaner. Thanks.

If it is threaded no need for any glue, just replace the washer, good luck.

John

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Originally Posted by MCarolyn1003

I have a leak under my kitchen sink. It looks like the "s" type pvc pipe. The part where it threads has a plastic washer in it. Do I replace the washer or use the pvc glue and cleaner. Thanks.

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Did the connection look like this? (see image). Let me know, Tom

I am going to "pipe" in here. I do a lot of front end plumbing and I see that pvc pipes get knocked from people putting cleaners , etc. under their sinks.

Use a new washer, you can get them at any hardware store, but then use teflon tape or paste around the threaded joint. Not everyone does this in plumbing, but if you bump the pipes, you get air within the threads and connections become a bit off as well - then it can create a leak. If you use tape on the threads, or paste - this helps it from leaking from this reason. "user friendly" so to speak.

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use teflon tape or paste around the threaded joint.

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Hate to disagree here but you don't either tape or paste compression nut threads, especially if they're plastic.
1) the threads don't hold pressure , the gasket holds pressure **and**
2) If you paste PVC threads they will become slick and not grip properly.
Regards, Tom

Tom,

I agree with you 100% that's why I asked to replace the seal, Thanks.

John

Well - I know why plumbers don't like to use
Tape, but so many times I come in and find that the tape helps hold. "bumping" happens all the time. Even if I replace everything -

Holds up better. You are right about the paste - I use tape for pvc. I have heard others using that instead, but...

I have other's disagree, but after having to go back to a newly installed trap and drain assembly - I have had to regular plumbings change their mind on that. Helps and it beats a call back after a few days.

I should think that using Teflon Tape on a compression nut thread would make the connection more slick ( that's what Teflon does it makes things slick) PVC to PVC will grip, add Teflon to the mix and I'm not sure. Any how we neither tape or paste compression threads in my area. Regards, Tom

I know Tom. I have heard that plenty.

Plumbers tape does help, especially as in "after installation". Plumber goes out and installs a new trap and sink drain system. Uses PVC material for pipe. A few days later there is a slow leak. Using tape does help with this, and I DO know plumbers generally don't like to do it. It helps with a tight joint on the threads. I have worked behind regular plumbers before. Tried re-installing and tightening. If I use tape - nada. Good to go for a long time.

So, 99 cents is worth a trip back. I wouldn't even bring this up if I weren't so sure. Construction remodel and plumging guys go out and later there is a leak - guess where. Send out plumber and it's cost the plumber another trip - or - I go out and do it, and walla - no more problems and not for quite sometime. Why not? It works.

Hello all,

We didn't hear from MCarolyn if his problem is fixed or not, but we are going back and forth on this, I personally would not argue with Tom he is the expert, there are a few experts on this web site that I have learned a lot from them, like Tom, Mark, Milo, Lee and Harold, Thanks.

Regards,
John

I see this only as a discussion. No arguments.

That said = I absolutely know this guys are pro's that's why I came here. I don't mind them challanging my opinion either. It's a good thing.

Cyberheater,
Your input is both appreciated and listened to. We're like a big family here, we disagree and fuss at one another but there's respect on all parties. Welcome to the family. Tom