So I've got this annoying leak under my kitchen sink that's been dripping for days now. Tried tightening the connections but um, no luck. I'm thinking maybe it's a worn-out seal or something? I'm not exactly Mr. Handyman, but I'd rather not call a plumber if it's something simple I can fix myself. Anyone dealt with something similar and have tips on what to check first?
Had the same issue last month... turned out it was the rubber gasket inside the slip joint connection that had worn out. Quick fix:
- Shut off water supply.
- Unscrew the slip joint nut.
- Replace old gasket (cheap at any hardware store).
- Reassemble and gently tighten.
Leak stopped immediately.
Yeah, replacing the gasket usually does the trick, but honestly, I've seen cases where it's not always that straightforward. Had a similar issue at a client's place a while back—thought it was just the gasket too, but after swapping it out, the leak persisted. Turned out the slip joint nut itself had a tiny hairline crack that was barely visible. Took me forever to spot it.
So, if you replace the gasket and still see dripping, give the nut itself a good look-over. They're cheap enough to replace anyway, and it'll save you from pulling your hair out later. Also, don't overtighten when you reassemble—just snug it up gently. I've seen folks crank down on those fittings thinking tighter is better, but that can actually deform the gasket or crack the nut.
Anyway, good luck with it... plumbing issues are always a bit of trial and error.
"Also, don't overtighten when you reassemble—just snug it up gently."
Wish I'd read this advice sooner... I learned the hard way that tighter isn't always better. Ended up cracking two slip joint nuts before realizing my Hulk-strength was the issue, not the fittings themselves. 😂 Anyway, hang in there—plumbing can be a real patience-tester, but once you nail it, you'll feel like a DIY champ. You've got this!
Yeah, overtightening got me too once. Ended up replacing the whole trap assembly—lesson learned. If seals look worn, swapping them out is cheap and easy enough. Worth a shot before calling in backup.
