Tips for no leaks the first time
So your going to try to install a water supply line with a brass compression sleeve and you want to get it right the first time (no leaks), here’s what you do:
A bit of terminology first: Compression fittings for attaching tubing (piping) commonly have ferrules in them.
- Make sure the tubing has no imperfections particularly at the ends as it needs to be clean and perfectly round where the ferrule will seat.
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The ferrule will do the sealing but you must have the proper length of tubing past the end of the ferrule for it to properly crimp onto the tubing.
- Make sure the nut is clean inside and slip the nut onto the tubing.
Make sure both the internal and external portions of the ferrule are clean and not damaged, then slip it on the tubing. - Make sure the “socket” on the receiving fitting (shut-off valve) is clean and not damaged.
- Bottom out the tube in the receiving fitting and while holding the tube bottomed tighten the nut hand tight. Continue holding the tube and tighten the nut one complete turn with a wrench then check for leaks. If it leaks, continue tightening to a maximum of one and one-half turns beyond hand tight. (Over tightening is as bad as under tightening.)
- Teflon tape or Pipe dope is NOT necessary and more often than not will interfere with a good seal. At most you may want to use a tiny drop of light oil on the threaded portion to reduce friction.
