If something’s gonna fail, I want to know about it right away, not months later when the floor’s buckling. Sweating copper is out of my league, and compression fittings always seem to leak for ...
I hear you on push-to-connects—super convenient for accessible spots. I do wonder, though, how often folks actually check under their sinks once a fix is made. Even with "good enough" repairs, a slow drip can sneak up if you forget about it. I’ve seen a few cases where what started as a quick fix turned into a bigger headache just because nobody looked for a while.
That said, sweating copper isn’t for everyone. Push-to-connect has its place, especially when you’re keeping an eye on things. Ever had one of those fittings pop off unexpectedly? It’s rare, but I’ve seen it happen when the pipe wasn’t deburred enough. Just something to keep in mind if anyone else is considering the same route.
Push-to-connects are a lifesaver when you’re in a pinch, but I agree—nothing’s truly “set it and forget it” under a sink. I usually check back after a day, then again after a week, just to be safe. Had one fitting leak because I didn’t push it on all the way... lesson learned. If you go this route, make sure the pipe’s clean and square-cut, and give it a good tug test. Not as foolproof as sweating copper, but way less intimidating for most folks.
KITCHEN SINK DISASTER—DIY OR CALL A PLUMBER?
- Push-to-connects are kind of like the “instant noodles” of plumbing—super handy, but not always the most satisfying in the long run. I’ve used them a few times when I was short on time or just didn’t want to mess with torches and flux.
- One thing I learned the hard way: if there’s even a tiny burr or bit of gunk on the pipe, you’re asking for a slow leak. I thought I’d done everything right, but nope… came back the next day and found a nice little puddle under the cabinet.
- Double-checking after install is a must. I usually do a paper towel trick—wrap one around the fitting and check for damp spots later. Not exactly high-tech, but it works.
- Tug test is non-negotiable. If it pops off, better now than when you’re out of the house for the weekend, right?
- I get why people like sweating copper more—it feels more permanent. But honestly, I’m still working up the nerve to try it solo. The idea of open flame under a sink makes me nervous.
- If you’re not sure about your cut, I’d say re-cut rather than risk it. Those push-to-connects don’t forgive sloppy work.
- One thing I don’t totally agree with: some folks say you can just “set it and forget it” if you do it right. But water has a way of finding the tiniest mistakes. I’d rather be paranoid and dry than confident and mopping up a mess.
Anyway, for quick fixes or temporary setups, push-to-connect is a solid choice. Just don’t trust it blindly, especially if you’re heading out of town or have expensive cabinets. Learned that lesson the hard way...
KITCHEN SINK DISASTER—DIY OR CALL A PLUMBER?
I totally get the nerves about sweating copper. I watched a bunch of YouTube videos and still chickened out when it came time to actually light the torch under my sink. Ended up using push-to-connects for a quick fix, but I’m with you—those things make me paranoid. I did the paper towel trick too, but now I keep checking under the cabinet every day for leaks. Has anyone had one of those fittings fail after a few months? Or is it usually just right away if it’s going to happen?
I’ve had a push-to-connect under my bathroom sink for about two years now—still dry as a bone, knock on wood. I get the paranoia though. I still peek under there every time I drop something. Ever tried the ones with the little plastic view window? I’m tempted but not sure if it’s just a gimmick.
