Household Repairs Also see entries following.

Leaks. See pipe, water-copper; or pipe, water-steel.

Clogged. Clogging may be caused by corrosion products or mineral deposits. There is no cure. Have pipe replaced with pipe of another material. Install a water softener if clogging is caused by hard water.

Sweats. Wrap with fiberglass tape and over-wrap with kraft paper tape.

Pipes thump or hammer. If this happens when a faucet is turned on, make sure cap nut on faucet is tight and faucet washer is in good condition (see faucet). If hammering is more or less continual, shut off main water valve, open all faucets in house and drain system at lowest drain point. This will let in air which should cushion against hammer. However, if hammering persists or returns, call in plumber.

Frozen. Open all faucets on the line. Direct an electric heat lamp on the pipe, starting at the faucet end and working backward to the supply end. Or wrap rags soaked in boiling water around pipe. But do not use a torch of any kind.



Home > Household Repairs > P > Pipe, Water

May 23, 2012