"Switched to compression fittings after that, and so far they've been rock solid."
Same here, compression fittings saved my sanity under the kitchen sink. Push-fits seem handy at first, but they're sneaky troublemakers long-term...compression fittings just feel more secure, especially if you're not soldering-savvy. Learned that lesson the wet way myself.
Compression fittings are definitely the way to go under sinks, especially if you're dealing with older plumbing. Push-fits seem great at first glance—quick and easy—but I've had a few tenants call me in a panic because one popped loose after a year or two. Not fun getting those late-night calls about flooded cabinets and soaked kitchen floors...
I switched over to compression fittings years ago, and honestly, haven't looked back since. They're straightforward enough even if you're not a plumbing pro, just make sure you don't overtighten them (a common rookie mistake). Snug is good; Hulk-strength tightness isn't necessary and can actually cause leaks.
One tip from experience: always double-check your pipe ends for burrs or rough edges before installing the fitting. A quick cleanup with some sandpaper or emery cloth can save you headaches down the road. Learned that one the hard way myself after chasing down a tiny drip for hours...
Compression fittings are solid, no doubt, but I've had decent luck with push-fits in tight spots or temporary fixes. Maybe it depends on the brand or pipe material... ever notice certain types hold better long-term? Curious if anyone's seen differences there.
Compression fittings are definitely reliable long-term, but honestly, I've found push-fits can hold up surprisingly well if you stick to reputable brands. SharkBite and John Guest have treated me pretty good—especially with copper or PEX. But I've had some sketchy experiences with cheaper no-name fittings on CPVC... they just don't grip as securely over time. If you're going push-fit, spending a bit more on quality brands makes a noticeable difference in durability, at least from what I've seen.
Totally agree on sticking with reputable push-fit brands—I've had SharkBites under my kitchen sink for about three years now, and they've held up fine. One tip I'd add: always double-check your pipe ends for burrs or scratches before installing. A clean, smooth cut makes a huge difference in how well the fitting seals long-term. Learned that the hard way after dealing with a slow drip for weeks... Good luck getting that leak sorted, plumbing issues can definitely test your patience.