How to fix a leaking sharkbite fitting

I've got a slow leak on a sharkbite fitting that connects the water supply line to my water supply valve http://imgur.com/TMIPEyS

The leak is coming from the yellow lining. Unfortunately, because the sharkbite is before the shut off valve I can't just shut off my water, disconnect the sharkbite and replace. Instead of having the city shut the water off and replacing the sharkbite can I fix this? I was thinking of applying pipe compound or rubber sealant around the leainking yellow lining. Thoughts? Suggestions?

Push Fittings (push to connect fittings) are best known under the SharkBite brand and are sold on PexUniverse.com under the OmniGrip brand. These are also available elsewhere under the names such as TECTITE, PROBite, GatorBite and possibly others. OmniGrip push fittings are fully compatible with SharkBite fittings and can fully replace the latter. They can be used with standard PEX, copper and CPVC pipe sizes. A sharp rise in popularity of push fittings over the past few years has been accompanied by a rising number of complaints about leaks, prompting us to investigate the matter. Since push fittings were originally used for the naval industry (with all its strict requirements) and have proven to be reliable, it would be quite abnormal for them to fail in regular residential settings.

Most of our findings point to the conclusion that most, if not all issues, arise from improper use and installation practices. Yes, push fittings are quick, convenient and easy to use, but like any plumbing component, have certain limitations which we listed below:

Never use hacksaw or band saw to cut the pipe – it’s a recipe for disaster. For copper pipe, use only a standard copper pipe cutter. In case of PEX, only use a PEX pipe cutter. Always make a clean, square cut.

Avoid reusing push fittings. The O-ring inside the fitting has a food grade lubricant applied to it, which is gradually wiped off when pipe is removed and re-inserted or fitting is re-used. While some companies allow reusing the fitting up to 4-6 times, we advise against this practice whenever possible or to limit it to 2-3 times.

Do not sand the copper pipe – while it’s the easiest way to smooth out the edge of the pipe, this practice should be avoided whenever possible since it disrupts the otherwise even pipe surface and may compromise the seal. It is only acceptable when a very fine sanding paper is used and only over the edge of the pipe in light circular motion.

Avoid push fittings in systems with glycol – some installers have voiced their concern about leakages in glycol system using push fittings. What we’ve found is that the issue is high likely not with the EPDM seal (the O-ring), but the lubricant, which may react with glycol, causing the deterioration of the seal and subsequent leakage.

Do not use pipe thread sealants, tape, lubricants or glue. Not only these are unnecessary, but can compromise the connection.

Do not use with PEX-AL-PEX. In fact, push fittings are only intended to work with copper, PEX or CPVC pipe. 1/2" PEX-AL-PEX has an OD very similar to that of 1/2" PEX, but due to the composition and properties of the pipe, cannot and should not be used with push to connect fittings.

Do not install these outdoors. POM polymer used in push fitting construction (the visible plastic "collar") is not rated for continuous UV exposure and will become brittle over long periods of exposure to sunlight.

Cut the copper pipe gradually. Make sure the cutting blade (ring) is sharp. Avoid using excess force as this will deform the pipe from the original round shape and will require more deburring.

Outer edge of the copper pipe must be reamed clean – we advise to ream/deburr the inside also to reduce turbulence. When pipe is not reamed or reamed improperly, abrasive edges may cut the O-ring which seals off the water. In fact, lack of or improper reaming is probably the most contributing factor to O-rings failure.

Measure – pipe must be fully inserted into the fitting to a depth specified in instructions. The depth is the same for OmniGrip and SharkBite fittings, so a SharkBite depth gauge & deburr tool can also be used with OmniGrip. When pipe is not fully inserted, it will leave room for leakage.

Use PEX stiffener (insert) when using push fittings with PEX tubing. Stiffeners included with SharkBite, OmniGrip and other brand fittings help to maintain a round shape of the PEX pipe to assure a proper water-tight seal. They are required, not just recommended.

When disconnecting a push fitting, always use a designated disconnect clip. Do not use screwdrivers, knives or any other tools, as they may damage the fitting and render it unusable.

When/if removing a PEX stiffener (insert) from the push fitting – do it properly. Hold the insert with needle-nose pliers and push on the lip of the fitting with a disconnect tool (in the same manner a pipe is disconnected), while slowly but firmly pulling the insert out.

Pressure test. Like any other system, installed push fittings must be pressure-tested prior to being put into use. We recommend testing with air for new systems. You can find more information on pressure testing a PEX system here.

When it comes down to plumbing fittings, SharkBite push fittings remain an ever-popular choice by homeowners. However, when you notice a leak that has developed by your fitting, you might be scratching your head trying to figure out why.

Generally, the possible reasons for a leaking SharkBite fitting come down to an issue with the pipe or the fitting. A fitting that isn’t connected properly has been used outdoors, has been reused too often, or has a damaged component that can result in a leak. Certain pipes are also incompatible with these fittings.

In this article, we’re going to help you troubleshoot your leaking SharkBite fitting. To do this, we’re going to break down the top ten causes for a leaking fitting. For each cause, we’ll also break down the relevant fix. Let’s take a look!

Causes and Fixes for Leaking SharkBite Fittings

When you’re troubleshooting a leaking SharkBite fitting, you’ll want to consider all the possibilities. This will allow you to find the cause of the issue and address it properly to stop your leak. Keep reading as we look at the ten most common reasons your SharkBite fitting is leaking – and how to fix it.

#1: The SharkBite Fitting Isn’t Connected Properly

One of the most common reasons a SharkBite fitting is leaking is because it wasn’t installed correctly. For this reason, when you’ve noticed a SharkBite fitting that’s leaking, the first thing you’ll want to do is to check whether the pipe is connected to the push fitting correctly.

How to Fix It:

The easiest way to ensure that your SharkBite fitting is connected properly is to disconnect the fitting and reconnect it. To disconnect the fitting, you’ll need to use a disconnecting clip, which can be purchased online or at your local hardware store. If this doesn’t resolve the issue, it could be due to another reason!

#2: The SharkBite Fitting’s O-Ring is Damaged

Another possible reason for a leaking SharkBite fitting is a damaged O-ring. Your pipe is aligned with the fitting’s O-ring protector, which is an important component of your SharkBite fitting. To find out if this is the reason, you’ll need to inspect your SharkBite fitting.

How to Fix It:

To inspect your fitting’s O-ring, you’ll need to disconnect the fitting using the tool discussed earlier. Once you’ve done this, you’ll be able to assess the O-ring. Luckily, SharkBite fittings come with a limited twenty-five-year warranty. A replacement fitting should solve your leak!

#3: You’re Using SharkBite Fittings Outdoors

Using SharkBite fittings outdoors can result in the formation of leaks. This is due to the exposure of the rubber O-ring, discussed above, to the harsh UV rays of the sun. In turn, this can dry out the O-ring, causing it to crack or split, eventually resulting in a leak.

How to Fix It:

If the leaking SharkBite fitting you’re troubleshooting is located outside, you’ve likely found the reason your SharkBite fitting is leaking. You’ll need to use an alternative fitting that is rated to withstand continuous exposure to the sun.

#4: You’re Reusing SharkBite Fittings

While SharkBite push fittings are highly convenient, you should avoid reusing them too often. Ultimately, this comes down to the rubber O-ring again. The rubber has a lubricant applied to it, allowing it to function properly. Over time, however, this lubricant erodes. Reusing these fittings can result in leaks developing.

How to Fix It:

The fix to this issue is clear: try to avoid reusing SharkBite fittings. As a golden rule, you can use it up to 3 times. However, if you notice that reused fitting leaking, it’s a sign that it’s time to purchase a new SharkBite fitting for your pipe.

#5: You’re Using the Wrong Fitting for Your Pipes

SharkBite fittings are designed to be used with certain types of pipes. Using these nifty fittings with the wrong type of pipe can result in fitting that leaks. PEX, Copper, CPVC, PE-RT, and HDPE pipes are compatible with SharkBite fittings. For example, PEX-AL-PEX pipes cannot be used with SharkBite fittings.

How to Fix It:

To verify that this is the reason for your leak, you’ll need to verify the type of pipe you’re using. You’ll then want to ensure that it is, in fact, compatible with the SharkBite fitting. If it is not compatible, you’ll need to use an appropriate fitting for your relevant pipes.

#6: Your Pipes are Deformed

Sometimes the leak isn’t the result of a faulty SharkBite fitting but rather due to a deformed pipe. Pipes often deal with extreme temperatures and will, over time, become warped. This could simply be due to the age of your pipes. However, a compromised pipe can result in a leaking push fitting.

How to Fix It:

To address this issue, you’ll need to replace the section of the damaged pipe. Once you’ve connected the replacement pipe to the SharkBite fitting, your leak will be a problem of the past!

#7: Your Pipes Are Painted

Painting your pipes can also result in a bad seal between your SharkBite fitting and the pipe. When the dried paint on your pipes presses against the SharkBite fitting’s cufflink, the seal’s strength can be compromised. In turn, this can result in a leak.

How to Fix It:

If you find that the pipe where the SharkBite fitting is leaking is indeed painted, it could be the cause of your leak. To fix this, you’ll need to turn off your home’s water and disconnect the pipe. With sandpaper or a paint stripping product, you can remove the paint near the end of the pipe where the fitting will be located. Once the paint has been removed, you can reconnect the fitting.

#8: You’ve Sanded Copper Pipes

Sanding copper is an easy way to smooth it out. However, when it comes down to copper pipes with SharkBite fittings, you should avoid sanding your pipes. That’s because the process of sanding creates an uneven surface. In turn, this compromises the effectiveness of your push fitting and could result in a leak.

How to Fix It:

If you’ve sanded your copper pipes, you might need to replace parts of your pipe. Doing this will repair the leaking SharkBite fitting. In the future, you should only use very fine sanding paper with your copper pipes. You should also take care to sand slowly in a circular motion.

#9: You Used a Hacksaw or Bandsaw to Cut Your Pipes

This reason once again comes down to the quality of your pipes. If you used a hacksaw or bandsaw to cut your pipes, this could be the reason for your leaking fitting. You need to use an appropriate tool to make a gradual and smooth cut.

How to Fix It:

If you’re using copper pipes, you’ll want to use a copper pipe cutter to cut your pipes. For PEX pipes, you’ll want to use a PEX cutter. For CPVC, you’ll need to use a fine-toothed saw or wheel cutter. You want to ensure you cut your pipes properly to avoid a leaking SharkBite fitting.

#10: You Used Sealants, Lubricants, Tapes, or Glue

Using sealants, lubricants, tapes, or glue on your pipes to seal it can actually result in a push fitting that leaks. As discussed earlier, the O-ring within the SharkBite fitting already contains a lubricant. Using these products can result in an ill-fitting connection that can result in a leak.

How to Fix It:

You should avoid using the above-discussed products with your SharkBite fittings to avoid developing a leak in this way.

Conclusion

In this article, we explained the various reasons a SharkBite fitting could begin leaking. Typically, these issues are either due to an issue with the pipe or with the fitting itself. With our handy fixes to these issues, you’ll have a leak-free SharkBite fitting in no time!

Sources:

https://www.sharkbite.com/products/disconnect-clip

https://www.sharkbite.com/resources/blog/see-whats-inside-sharkbite-push-connect-fitting

https://diy.stackexchange.com/questions/128561/sharkbite-fitting-connection-is-leaking-around-painted-pipe/128562