Leaky PVCs...

[RoyalPiranha]

This might sound like a stupid question but how do I stop my PVCs from leaking?

I assume to stop it from leaking, do I just use teflon tape, tighten the pvcs and/or use PVC cement.
How do you all stop your pvc from leaking?

 

[jcardona1]

You don't use PVC cement? EVERY single fitting that's carrying water outside of the aquarium NEEDS to be glued. If it's a threaded fitting, it NEEDS teflon tape.

 

[RoyalPiranha]

You don't use PVC cement? EVERY single fitting that's carrying water outside of the aquarium NEEDS to be glued. If it's a threaded fitting, it NEEDS teflon tape.

Well the plumbing is really tight so if I glue it, its tough to take out if needed.
I don't want to re plumb.

 

[meBNme]

Then switch your outside of the tank piping to "pex", using "shark bite" (or "techtite") fittings.

Pex is more flexible, and the sharkbite can be removed and reused.
They will fit copper, pex and CPVC fittings but not PVC, so you will need a threaded adapter from your PVC to pex.

 

[jcardona1]

Well the plumbing is really tight so if I glue it, its tough to take out if needed.
I don't want to re plumb.

LOL that's why you use unions. This is the first time I've ever heard of somebody doing PVC plumbing without the cement. I'm surprised you don't have puddles of water on the floor. PVC fittings are not made to be watertight as a dry fit. They need cement (except for threaded fittings of course). With a union you could quickly disconnect your plumbing

 

[RoyalPiranha]

LOL that's why you use unions. This is the first time I've ever heard of somebody doing PVC plumbing without the cement. I'm surprised you don't have puddles of water on the floor. PVC fittings are not made to be watertight as a dry fit. They need cement (except for threaded fittings of course). With a union you could quickly disconnect your plumbing

Okay....I guess I should be more clear.

Anyways, the tank isn't fully setup. I purchased it used so there is an existing plumbing line and I'm just trying to reseal the drips.

 

[jcardona1]

Ah I see. Well if it isn't up and running yet and the fitting aren't glued, you could try a pipe strap wrench to break them free, so you could then cement them together...

 

[z400]

Glue all of your slip fittings, if it is a threaded fitting use aquarium safe silicone.


I was fighting a leak between 2 threaded sections in my plumbing.
I tried and tried and tired to get the leak stopped with teflon.
I posted on here and someone recommended me use aquarium safe silicone.
I added the silicone, leak stopped and has not occurred again.