On 2 May 2006 22:15:08 GMT, (G.W. Walker) wrote:



Right now this is a bit of rhetorical question, but...

...how do you stop compression fittings from leaking? I
plumbed in some new stuff at the weekend, but lots of the
joints are now leaking. I resisted using PTFE tape on
every single joint, but is that the answer? PTFE wrapped
around every olive..?

G.

Even when visibly defect free and cleaned with fine wire wool some
compression joint components will leak. They usually don't but it does
happen. So, I have 2 different approaches to these joints.

Sometimes the joint is going to be in a location where it's not
possible to put it to the test until a floorboard or other type of
covering has been put in place so that the rest of the job can be
assembled. These joints I always smear with Boss or wrap the
positioned olive with a couple of turns of PTFE tape. It's a sin but I
like it. I then do the standard finger tight 3/4 turn with a
spanner, plus a big pinch for luck.
Where possible with these hidden before being tested joints I leave
the loosely draped end of a long strip of cotton fabric like a strip
of old T-shirt around the joint and trail the other end out of the
confined area to a handy spot where, after turning the water back on
and giving it a little time, I can pull the strip of fabric out and
check it for dryness.

Most other compression joints that are visible and accessible I
usually leave tape or paste free and err slightly on the side of
slackness when tightening the joint. Then when the water's turned on
any that are weeping can be given an anti-depressent tweak.
--
Regards,
Mike Halmarack

Drop the (EGG) to email me.