The plumbing system at your home is a complex network of several parts, most of which you are hardly aware of. Hence, if any problem crops up, you will hardly pay any attention to compression fittings on pipes and fixtures. And this is a grave mistake. After all, it is integral to your plumbing network.

Like anything, compression fittings can also have some problems, ultimately leading to unsanitary conditions that might give you headaches. You may try your best to figure out what has gone wrong but your effort is likely to come to no fruition. It is when you will realize the importance of hiring a plumbing repair professional.

In this article, we will discuss their leakage issues, causes and how to fix them.

What are Compression Fittings?

Compression fittings connect two tubes or pipes. Most compression fittings have three parts:

  • Compression Seat
  • Compression Ring (also called ferrule)
  • Compression Nut

Compression fittings form a seal around the two connected pipes by using the technique of ’Compression’ which is far superior to conventional connection methods such as soldering or welding.

The compression nut tightens the ferrule and forms a tight seal between the tube and it. Many plumbers, contractors and homeowners prefer compression fittings due to the convenience of installation as well as powerful seals created by them. The tightened seals can withstand usual vibrations in your plumbing system and can even manage slight misalignment.

What are the Most Common Problems in Compression Fittings?

Given the importance of compression fittings, you can easily imagine your plight if they have leaks. Following are some of the most common issues that compression fittings may run into and what to do if these happen.

Wrong Installation

If you experience any problem with the compression ring, it may be due to incorrect installation. However, the problem is easy to fix. If the fitting is not tightened properly, the occurrence of a leak is highly likely. On the other hand, overly tightening the fittings will ultimately damage it, prompting you to make a new purchase.

Misalignment is another issue with compression fittings. It happens during installation. Though these fittings can easily handle the slight misalignments, serious misalignments are blamed for an uneven seal. This will cause a leak. Compression fitting reinstallation is the only way to fix the problem.

Strong Vibrations

Regular vibration is not a problem for compression fittings. However, if vibration is strong exceeding the level of normalcy, it can cause leaks or damages in your compressor fittings.

Fix up any flaw causing unusually strong vibrations before rectifying potentially loosened or damaged fittings. If your system produces strong vibrations, brace the pipes with mounts to the ceiling or wall.

Regular Deterioration

Compression fittings also suffer wear and tear over time. Deteriorating fittings will cause leaks as your plumbing system grows older. Certain environmental conditions also accelerate the deterioration process. For example, humid conditions or elevated temperate can speed up corrosion.

Occasional inspection is the best way to know if the fitting’s lifespan is nearing the end. If the fitting has already reached that point, buy a new replacement immediately.

#plumbingrepair#plumbingservicerepair#plumbingservices