Below the Kitchen Sink: Dealing With Kitchen Drain Pipe Leaks
The kitchen is the heart of the home. And while making the visible finishes like the counters and cabinets look nice is important to create a welcoming space, it’s even more important to make sure the “invisible” components are in good working order too—like the kitchen plumbing.
Although leaks are never desirable in your home, the good news is that visible leaks, like those from a kitchen sink drain pipe, are usually the easiest to spot. Water stains, pooling water, or damp items stored in the cabinet beneath the sink are all telltale signs of a leak. Even if the leak seems to be only a few drops of water, it’s important to address the issue right away as major damage could be not too far behind.
One of the most common and noticeable leaks homeowners often have is a kitchen sink drain pipe leaking at the connection. Here are some of the most common causes of this type of leak:
- Loose compression nut: This is usually the most common reason for a leaky drain pipe at the connection and is the simplest to fix. Most homeowners can tighten the loose nut to stop the leak themselves.
- Worn compression nut: If tightening the compression nut doesn’t fix the leak, it’s possible that the nut is cracked, broken, or has worn-down threads, which can allow water to easily escape at the point of connection.
- Problems with the P-trap: Leaks from a P-trap can be the result of loose connections, a blockage in the drainpipes or, in the case of a metal trap, corrosion. Clogs in the drainpipe can create unwanted pressure, causing the pipe to eventually crack and develop a leak. If your sink isn’t draining well and also seems to be leaking, this could be the problem.
- Wrong length of pipe: A previous homeowner’s DIY plumbing project could mean that your kitchen sink’s drain pipes aren’t the appropriate size for the sink or don’t properly fit. If the drain pipes aren’t the correct size, there may be too much pressure at the joint where the connection is, causing a leak.
If the leak seems to be caused by anything more than a loose or worn compression nut or a simple blockage and is beyond a few drops of water, it’s wise to call in the experts for help to ensure your pipes don’t have any unwanted pressure or cracks in them. Water restoration specialists, like Water Extraction Experts, will be able to properly address the situation and check for the possibility of mold from the leaking water so that your kitchen can continue on in its important role in your home.
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We are equipped to guide you through the process of restoring water damaged areas, repairing your home, and getting you back to your life as soon as possible.
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