Why can't I get PVC compression fitting pipes to stop leaking?

Question

It is on a "P" trap under a bathroom sink. I re -plumbed a sink and put in a new trap to the wall. Everything lines up, none of the pipes are under strain or pulling. I loosened every fitting and adjusted everything to fit flush and tight, but I keep getting a drip on elbow fitting. They are hand tightened and snug. Any suggestions?

Answer 1

If the compression  ring(seal) is plastic(teflon) replace it with a rubber one or take some plumbers putty and build one (temperary)

Answer 2

Did you remember to put in the plastic washer??? and if so did you put it on the right direction??? you may have crosstreaded the connection as well.... also how much of the pipe comming down into the "P" is in it??? you need at least 1and1/2 inches and is the washer on here as well??? the right way??? check all the connections, be sure the whiteish washers are on and are on correctly, and tighten , be sure not to crosstread the connections!!!! also be sure there is a slight slop to the drain after the trap....

Answer 3

On the elbow fitting?

That is the adjustable angle but non adjustable tightness elbow?

Nothing you can do to fix that if that is where it is leaking from, only option is to replace the P trap.

Before you do though, run you finger around the pipe coming out of the plastic nut from the bottom of the sink and the one at the other end of you P trap and make sure the water is not migrating back to the elbow from either of those. If it is make sure your rubber washer is in the correct position and tighten up again. Some of those you have to really lean on to get to seal correctly.

Hope this helps

Answer 4

KH..WRONG answer. The "purple " stuff is a primer to clean before using the cement on UNTHREADED connnections (Smooth pipe to pipe. )NEVER use cement on a threaded connection PVC as it precludes opening/cleaning out if it get clogged.

Answer 5

OK, I understand what you have done. did you use any cement to seal it ? if not then you will need to go and get the purple cement in a small can.it is in the plumbers section in home depot, and take the top of the purple cement and make a circle around the pipe that is leaking and then put it together. you should then be ok.

Answer 6

You can try plumbers putty as a last resort. Before you do that, check if your seals and washers are all there correctly. Check the mating flanges also for nicks since water can find the smallest paths of least resistance. If all else fails, your local hardware store is always around the corner waiting to sell you a new one. Happy plumbing!

Answer 7

You may have damaged the seal ring for the compression fitting. You can get new ones at the hardware store. Bevel end of the ring will go towards the threaded piece. Good Luck.