How to Fix a Leaking Pipe Under Your Kitchen Sink

Noticed a drip coming from under your kitchen sink? That annoying leak can quickly turn into a bigger problem if left unchecked. Fixing these issues promptly is important for every homeowner, and we’re here to guide you through the entire process with clear, simple steps.

This blog will help you understand why you have a leaking kitchen sink and how to fix it yourself. Let’s get into it.

Why Is the Pipe Under My Kitchen Sink Leaking?

When you notice water pooling or dripping under your kitchen sink, it usually comes down to a few common causes:

• Loose connections: Pipes and fittings can loosen over time from regular use, allowing water to seep through the joints.
• Worn-out washers or seals: Rubber washers and seals inside pipe joints can crack or break down, causing leaks at the pipe connections.
• Corroded or cracked pipes: Older metal pipes can corrode or develop cracks, leading to water leaks.
• Improper installation: Pipes or fittings that weren’t installed correctly or tightened enough can start leaking soon after.
• Temperature changes: Pipes expand and contract with heat and cold, which can weaken joints or cause tiny cracks over time.

What Tools Will You Need to Fix Leaking Sinks?

These are the tools you’ll need:

• Adjustable wrench
• Bucket
• Screwdriver
• Replacement washers, rubber seals or gaskets (if needed)
• Plumber’s tape
• Pipe wrench
• Cleaning cloth or sponge

Make sure your adjustable wrench is the right size, because using the wrong one can damage nuts or pipes, which may worsen the leaks. Also, wear gloves and eye protection while working under the sink to protect yourself from sharp edges, debris, or splashes of dirty water.

With these tools on hand, fixing the leak becomes a lot easier. And don’t worry, most of these tools are cheap to grab from your local hardware store.

Steps to Fix a Leaking Pipe Under the Sink

Now it’s time to roll up your sleeves and fix the leak. The process depends on where the leak is, but here’s a step-by-step to fix the most common issues.

1. Turn Off the Water Supply

Before anything, make sure you turn off the water supply under the kitchen sink or the main water valve for your home. You don’t want a flood to happen while you’re fixing things.

2. Place Your Bucket and Clear the Area

Place a bucket under the leaking pipe to catch any water that drips out, and clear the cabinet so you have enough room to work comfortably.

3. Inspect the Problem Area

Carefully check the pipes and connections under your sink. Leaks commonly occur at the slip joints where the drain pipe connects to the trap or from the P-trap, which is the U-shaped pipe that prevents sewer gases from rising.

4. Tighten Loose Connections

Using your adjustable wrench, try tightening the slip nuts on the pipes. Often, a leaking sink pipe is simply due to a loose joint. Tighten it firmly but carefully.

5. Replace Washers, Rubber Seals or Gaskets If Needed

If tightening doesn’t stop the leak, worn or damaged washers, gaskets, or rubber seals inside the pipe joints are often the cause. Here’s how to fix it:

• Loosen and remove the leaking pipe section carefully.
• Inspect the washers, gaskets, and rubber seals for cracks or wear.
• Replace any damaged or degraded parts with new ones.
• Apply plumber’s tape to threaded connections to ensure a tight, leak-free seal before reassembling.

6. Check for Cracked or Damaged Pipes

If you find cracks or corrosion on the pipes themselves, it’s time to replace the pipe section.

• Measure the size and type of your damaged pipe.
• Visit your local hardware store to purchase a replacement pipe.
• Cut out the damaged section and fit the new pipe in place.
• Seal all joints with plumber’s tape and tighten the fittings securely.

That said, because working with damaged pipes can be tricky and mistakes can cause bigger problems, it’s best to have our licensed plumbers in Sydney to help you. Our team’s professional experience ensures your repair is handled safely and to a high standard.

7. Test Your Repair

Turn the water back on and watch the pipes closely as you run the tap for a few minutes. If the leak has stopped, well done, you’ve successfully fixed the leaking pipe under your sink. But if water is still dripping or you’re not confident about the repair, it’s time to call in a professional.

How to Prevent Pipe Leaks Under Your Kitchen Sink

Preventing leaks under your kitchen sink is all about regular care and a few simple habits. Here’s how you can keep your plumbing in good shape and avoid those frustrating drips:

• Check connections regularly: Give the pipes and fittings under your sink a quick look every few months to make sure nothing is loose or dripping.
• Avoid putting grease down the drain: Grease and food scraps can build up and cause blockages, which increase pressure on pipes and lead to leaks.
• Clean your drain and trap: Remove debris and clean the P-trap regularly to keep water flowing properly and reduce strain on your pipes.
• Use water leak detectors: Consider installing leak detectors under your sink. They alert you early if water starts to pool, so you can act fast.

Conclusion

A leaking pipe under the sink might seem minor, but ignoring it can lead to serious damage and expensive repairs.

If your efforts don’t stop the leak, leave it to our team at Fix N Flow for expert leaking sink repairs in Sydney. Give us a call today on 1300 319 275 or simply fill out our online form. We’re here to make sure your kitchen sink stays leak-free and working perfectly!