Ten percent of homes in the United States have leaking pipes that waste more than 90 gallons of water daily. This loss can translate to more than 30,000 gallons of water each year. Therefore, the earlier you fix pinhole leaks in your copper pipes, the more water and money you save.
You can fix pinhole leaks in copper pipes by removing and replacing the leaking section, soldering, using a gasket kit, and applying a copper pipe repair epoxy putty. These tactics are easy and inexpensive, requiring a few tools you may already have in your home.
In the rest of this article, I’ll take you through the different ways to fix pinhole leaks in copper pipes. I’ll also discuss the causes of pinhole leaks in copper pipes and how to prevent them. Let’s get started!
1. Remove and Replace the Leaking Section
The most common way to fix a pinhole leak is by removing the leaking section of the pipe and replacing it with a new piece of pipe. This can be done with copper pipes up to two inches (0.05 meters) in diameter.
You’ll need the following tools and equipment:
- A hacksaw
- A measuring tape
- Two pipe wrenches
- Sharkbite couplings
Procedure
- Turn off the main water line to your home and bleed the water system to prevent any water from getting into the area you’ll be working on.
- Measure the pipe section that needs replacing using a measuring tape.
- Use the hacksaw to cut out the leaking section of the pipe, making sure to leave about two inches (0.05 meters) of extra pipe on either side of the leak.
- Measure the length of the new piece of pipe you’ll need, and cut it to size using the hacksaw.
- Remove any burrs or sharp edges from the ends of the pipe using a file.
- Slide the Sharkbite coupling onto one end of the new pipe.
- Slide the other end of the new pipe into the Sharkbite coupling on the old pipe.
- Tighten each side of the Sharkbite coupling using a wrench.
- Turn on the main water line to your home and check the new pipe section for leaks. If there are no leaks, you’re all done!
2. Solder the Leaking Section
Soldering involves using a torch to heat the copper pipes until they’re hot enough to melt the solder. Once the solder melts, it’ll flow into any cracks or holes in the pipe and seal them shut. Soldering is a good option for fixing pinhole leaks in copper pipes because it’s relatively easy and doesn’t require any special equipment.
You’ll need the following tools and equipment:
- A soldering torch
- Solder (lead-free)
- Flux
- Heat mat
- Wet rag
Procedure
- Turn off the main water line to your home and bleed the water system to prevent any water from flowing into the workspace.
- Clean the area around the leak using a wet rag. This will help the solder flow better and create a stronger seal.
- Apply flux to the area around the leak using a brush. Flux helps the solder flow better and prevents it from oxidizing.
- Heat the area around the leak with the soldering torch until the flux starts to bubble. Position the heating mat to protect the nearby surfaces from heat.
- Touch the end of the solder to the area around the leak. The solder will flow into any cracks or holes in the pipe and seal them shut.
- Remove the torch and allow the area to cool for a few minutes.
- Check the area around the leak for any leaks. If there are no leaks, you’re all done!
The video below shows how to solder copper pipes:
3. Use a Gasket Kit
A gasket kit is a quick and easy way to fix pinhole leaks in copper pipes. A gasket kit includes a rubber gasket that goes around the outside of the pipe and a metal clamp that holds the gasket in place. Gasket kits are available at most hardware stores and only take a few minutes to install.
You’ll need the following tools and equipment:
- A gasket kit (includes a rubber gasket and metal clamp)
- A screwdriver or hex wrench
Expert Tip: If you decide to use a hose clamp, ensure it’s almost the size of the leaking copper pipe.
Procedure
- Turn off the main water line to your home and bleed the water system to prevent water disturbances.
- Cut a piece the same width as the hose clamp from the rubber gasket. It should be long enough to cover more than half the circumference of the copper pipe.
- Position the cut rubber gasket piece with the hose clamp over the pinhole leak. You must wrap the piece over the pipe’s width and install the hose clamp on top.
- Tighten the hose clamp with a screwdriver or hex wrench. The aim is to make it as tight as possible without crushing the gasket.
- Turn on the main water line and check for leaks around the gasket area.
4. Apply Copper Pipe Repair Epoxy Putty
Epoxy putty (metal plasticine) is a type of putty used to fix leaks in copper pipes. The putty is easy to use, can be found at most hardware stores, and is a good option for fixing small leaks in copper pipes.
Additionally, epoxy putties are made from epoxy resin. Resin makes the curing process possible in the presence of a hardener like a polyamine. To mix the two substances, you’ll need to knead them together until they’re the same color. Once mixed, epoxy putty can be applied directly to the leaky copper pipe.
You’ll need the following tools and equipment:
- Epoxy putty (metal plasticine)
- Putty knife or spatula
Procedure
- Turn off the main water line to your home and bleed the water system to prevent water disturbances.
- Clean the area around the leak using a wet rag. This will help the epoxy putty adhere better and create a stronger seal.
- Knead together equal parts of the epoxy putty until they’re the same color.
- Apply the epoxy putty directly to the leaky copper pipe. Use a putty knife or spatula to smooth it out.
- Allow the epoxy putty to cure for the time specified on the packaging.
- Turn on the main water line and check for leaks around the epoxy putty. The pipe should now be fully fixed.
5. Use a Pipe Repair Clamp
Pipe repair clamps provide a quick way to fix pinhole leaks in copper pipes. They’re your go-to option if you don’t want the hassles of soldering or using epoxy putty.
You’ll need the following tools and equipment:
- Pipe repair clamp (includes a rubber gasket)
- Screwdriver or hex wrench
- Allen key
- Sandbelt
Procedure
- Turn off the water supply to the leaking copper pipe.
- Perform surface preparation by cleaning the pipe with a sandbelt. This removes loose particles and provides a smooth surface for the pipe repair clamp.
- Loosen all the bolts on the pipe repair clamp using an Allen key.
- Install the pipe repair clamp over the leaky copper pipe. Make sure to center it over the leak.
- Tighten the screws on the pipe repair clamp using a screwdriver or hex wrench. You’ll need to use an Allen key to tighten the bolts.
- Turn on the water supply to the leaking copper pipe. Check for leaks around the clamp area. The leak should now be fixed.
The video below shows how to install a pipe repair clamp:
6. Apply a Compression Tape
Compression tapes work by compressing and fusing the leaking pipe. This stops water from escaping through the hole and prevents further damage.
The idea behind compression tape is to pull it as tight as possible to create a chemical reaction that’ll make the tape harden. This will create a water-tight seal that will last for years.
Compression tapes are made from polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), a strong and durable material that can withstand high temperatures and pressures.
You’ll need the following tools and equipment:
- Compression tape (self-amalgamating tape)
- Ruler or measuring tape
- Cutter
Procedure
- Turn off the water supply to the leaking copper pipe.
- Measure the circumference of the pipe using a ruler or measuring tape. Cut a piece of compression tape slightly longer than the circumference of the pipe.
- Wrap the compression tape around the leaking copper pipe. Start at the center of the leak and work your way out. Make sure to pull the tape as tight as possible.
- Trim off any excess tape using a cutter. The compression tape should now be fused to the pipe, creating a water-tight seal.
- Turn on the water supply to the leaking copper pipe and check if the leaks have been repaired.
7. Use a Pipe Patch
A pipe patch is a fiberglass patch used to repair pinhole leaks in copper pipes. These patches work like heart stents by stopping water flow and preventing further damage.
Pipe patches are easy to install and only require a few tools and materials. They can be used on both small and large leaks.
You’ll need the following tools and equipment:
- Pipe patch (fiberglass cloth)
- Teflon tape
- Caulking gun
- Scissors
Procedure
- Turn off the water supply to the leaking copper pipe.
- Cut a piece of pipe patch slightly larger than the circumference of the pipe.
- Wrap the pipe patch around the leaking copper pipe. Make sure to center it over the leak.
- Secure the pipe patch in place using Teflon tape. Wrap the tape around the pipe patch and copper pipe.
- Apply a bead of caulking around the edges of the pipe patch. This will create a water-tight seal.
- Allow the caulking to dry for the time specified on the packaging.
- Turn on the water supply to the leaking copper pipe and check if the leaks have been repaired.
Causes of Pinhole Leaks in Copper Pipes
Pinhole leaks in copper pipes are a menace in many homes. These leaks can cause extensive damage to your property and cost more money to repair.
The following are the leading causes of pinhole leaks in copper pipes:
Corrosion of the Internal Pit
The internal part of copper pipes is susceptible to corrosion. This is caused by the interaction of water and oxygen with the metal. Over time, this can create pits and holes in the pipe, which leads to leaks. Hard water is the main contributor to this menace.
Too acidic or basic water can also lead to internal corrosion.
See also: Do Green Copper Pipes Need to Be Replaced?
Chemicals in the Water
Most chemicals in water won’t affect its quality and safety. However, a combination of chemicals can interact with copper to create a corrosive environment. This can lead to pits and holes forming, leading to pinhole leaks.
Some of the chemicals that can interact with copper include:
- Ammonia
- Chlorine
- Fluoride
- Sulfates
- Organic acids
- Oxygen in Water
While oxygen is essential for life, it can be detrimental to copper pipes. Oxygen reacts with water to form oxidants. These oxidants are very corrosive and can eat away at the metal, causing leaks.
Temperature Extremes
Copper pipes are also susceptible to temperature extremes. When water freezes, it expands by 10 percent, putting pressure on the pipes. This can cause the pipes to crack and leak.
Constant exposure to hot water can also lead to leaks. This is because the metal expands when heated and contracts when cooled. Over time, this can weaken the pipes and develop leaks.
How to Prevent Pinhole Leaks in Copper Pipes
You can prevent pinhole leaks in your copper pipes by:
- Installing a water softener system: This will remove the minerals that contribute to corrosion.
- Adding an oxygen barrier: This will prevent oxygen from interacting with the water to form oxidants.
- Replacing old pipes: Old pipes exceeding 20 years are more susceptible to leaks and should be replaced.
- Wrapping exposed pipes: This will protect them from temperature extremes and other environmental factors.
- Reducing the water velocity: High water velocity increases wear and tear on the pipes, which can lead to leaks. The velocity for cold water should not exceed 8 feet per second (2.44 m/s) and 5 feet per second (1.52 m/s) for hot water.
- Installing the right pipe size: Smaller copper pipe sizes increase friction against the water, leading to wear and tear. Make sure you install the right size copper pipe for your needs.
Final Thoughts
Pinhole leaks in copper pipes are a common problem in many homes. These leaks can cause extensive damage to your property due to water damage and cost a lot of money to repair. The best way to prevent these leaks is by taking preventive measures, such as installing a water softener system or adding an oxygen barrier.