Learning how to repair copper pipe leaks is important.
Especially if you can’t get a plumber to your house and need to do it yourself.
This tutorial is going to show how to repair copper pipe leaks using SharkBite fittings.
Even if you’re a complete beginner, you’ll be able to do this project.
Let’s dive in!
Copper Pipe Repair with SharkBite Couplings
Copper pinhole leaks are small but create a big mess.
The first indication of this type of leak is drywall or ceiling tiles turning brown.
Fortunately, pinhole leaks are very easy to repair.
The first step is to find the leak and mark its location.
It might be hard to see, but underneath the black mark on the pipe below is the water pinhole leak.
Shut off the water to the home and drain the pipes at the lowest point, e.g., the laundry room.
This is important for any copper pipe repair because it prevents water from draining onto the floor.
Cut the copper pipe at the pinhole leak using an AutoCut tool.
Deburr the outside edge of the copper pipe with a SharkBite Deburring and Depth Gauge.
Also deburr the inside edge of the pipe with a pencil deburring tool.
Deburring both copper pipe edges is crucial. Otherwise, any sharp edges on the pipe could cut the SharkBite O-ring and cause a leak.
Mark the insertion depth with the SharkBite Depth Gauge and push a SharkBite coupling onto both sides of the cut copper pipe.
That’s how you fix a copper pinhole leak in 5 minutes!
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SharkBite Couplings for Long Copper Pipe Repairs
Over time, long sections of copper pipes can corrode.
Typically, this is the cold water supply line, so it’s good to inspect them periodically.
If you see green marks on copper pipe, repair it immediately before they turn into bigger problems.
Two SharkBite couplings are great for long sections of copper pipe because they don’t require soldering.
Cut out the section of damaged copper pipe and prep the copper pipes as mentioned above.
Also, I recommend using Type L copper pipe because it’s more durable than Type M.
Measure the distance between the ends of each coupling.
Then add 2 inches to that measurement to get the length of the new section of copper pipe.
Install the new section of copper pipe into the SharkBite couplings and ensure the copper is installed to the correct depth
This installation is super easy if there’s some movement in the copper pipe.
But if the copper pipe doesn’t move, the SharkBite Slip Coupling is a great solution.
Repair Copper Pipes That Don’t Move
SharkBite made a solution for copper pipe repairs when there’s no movement.
Using a SharkBite Slip Coupling fitting makes this project much easier.
The repair is similar to the one done with two couplings, but replace one coupling with a Slip Coupling and push it as far as it will go onto the pipe.
Then measure the distance between the Slip Coupling and the standard coupling.
Again, add 2 inches to this measurement and cut a piece of copper pipe to size.
Install the new copper pipe into the standard coupling and then slide the Slip Coupling onto the other end of the pipe.
SharkBite disconnect tongs can be used to engage the release collar, which in turn allows the Slip Coupling to move.
Frankly, all homeowners should have at least 1 or 2 Slip Couplings and 2 to 3 standard couplings on hand in case of an emergency pipe repair.
Slip Couplings can be used with Copper but not PEX.
However, because PEX is so flexible, it likely can be used with two standard couplings even if there’s no movement in copper pipes.
Here’s a short video that shares how to install a SharkBite Slip Coupling for copper pinhole leaks
What’s Next
SharkBite fittings are great for quick plumbing repairs.
But if you need to replumb an entire bathroom, there are several step-by-step tutorials inside Home Repair Tutor.
You can unlock all my bathroom remodeling videos, courses, and personal coaching by joining Home Repair Tutor today – it’s one of the best online resources for anyone renovating a bathroom. Tap the button below to learn more
Jeff
