Can you hear that? That constant “drip, drip, drip, drip, drip drip….”? Your attention might not be brought to it initially, or you may even brush it off. However, the longer this noise of your leaking pipes goes on, not only does it strike a nerve and create great irritants within you, but it also racks up a rather large utility bill.
This irritant can be further heightened if this leaking takes place under your kitchen sink, a place where you tend to spend a good amount of time and rely on it quite a bit. Fixing a leaking issue under the kitchen sink is crucial for several reasons. Ignoring or delaying the repair of a kitchen sink leak can lead to a cascade of problems, some of which can be costly and even extremely hindering your daily routine.
The next problem after figuring out something might be wrong with your kitchen sink is finding the source of the leak. Leaks can be rather discrete, making it a challenging task to locate them. You will likely need help from a plumber.
If you are searching for advice on how to do so, continue reading. Together, we can explore some methods via which you can find a leak under your kitchen sink and fix this issue as soon as possible.
Gathering your supplies
The first step you should be taking towards finding the source of the leak under your kitchen sink is gathering your tools and other supplies. This step ensures you’re well-prepared for the inspection and repair process, making it more efficient and organized. Here are some of the main supplies that you should have handy:
A flashlight
This will help you examine hard-to-reach areas and darker corners under the sink.
A bucket
Use this to catch any water that may drip during the inspection or repair.
A wrench
You’ll need this to tighten loose connections or remove components for replacement.
Paper towels
Paper towels are essential for their absorbent properties, helping you identify and manage moisture and leaks during the inspection process.
If you cannot seem to find specific tools or supplies, head over to your nearest store and purchase them. Get your tools gathered so you can continue with the repair process!
Turning off the water supply
The next most crucial step in fixing a leak under your kitchen sink would be to shut off the main water supply.
Shutting off the water supply to your kitchen sink ensures that you can work on the problem without the risk of being sprayed with water or encountering unexpected water pressure. This precautionary measure is essential to protect yourself from accidents, injuries, or unnecessary and additional cleaning.
Additionally, it will create a controlled environment for your inspection and repair efforts, allowing you to focus on the task at hand without being rushed or overwhelmed.
Minimize long-term water damage
A leak under the kitchen sink can worsen over time, causing additional damage to your property. When water continues to flow, the damage can be extensive, affecting cabinets, flooring, and even structural elements of your home. Hence, by shutting off the water supply immediately, you can also halt the source of the problem and prevent further damage.
You can shut off the water supply by turning off the shut-off valves, typically under the sink. To ensure that the water supply is indeed shut off, turn on the kitchen faucet. If no water flows, you have successfully turned off the supply!
Inspect the pipe
Now that you have your workspace ready, it is time to inspect your pipes for signs of damage. You might consider using a flashlight to get a clear view of the pipes. Examine them closely, paying attention to areas where the pipes connect, as these are common points of failure.
Look for signs of moisture, rust, or visible damage on the pipes. If you notice loose connections, use a wrench or pliers to tighten them. Sometimes, a minor adjustment can stop a leak.
The P-trap, a curved pipe under the sink, is another common source of leaks. Check both ends of the P-trap for signs of water, rust, or corrosion. If you find any, tighten the connections or replace damaged parts.
Search for leaks
You can also use your hands by running your fingers along the pipes and connections. Feel for any dampness or wet spots, as some leaks may not be immediately visible but can be detected through touch. Additionally, the paper towel method works very well in detecting hard-to-find leaks.
This method involves placing dry paper towels along the length of the pipes and connections beneath the sink. The paper towels act as sensitive indicators, readily absorbing any moisture. By carefully observing for wet spots or discolouration on the paper towels, you can swiftly pinpoint the leak’s location!
Resolving the issue
Finding the source of the leak, being one of the hardest parts of this process, now only leaves for the leak to be repaired! If you feel confident enough in your handy knowledge of how to fix leaks, then you may consider working on this by yourself.
On the other hand, calling for help is always an option, allowing you to relax while the issue gets fixed for you by the hands of a professional.
