PVC Union Question...

[Sindjin]

So has anyone had a leaky union? If so, what was the cause and repair?

The reason I ask this is because I just finished plumbing my 120.
I have several Unions throught and was going to apply Teflon tape to the threads...but one of my plumbers advised against it. He said he never uses Teflon tape on Unions because it may cause the nut to not seat properly therfore causing the Oring not to seal like it should.

Thoughts??

[javatech]

All the big nut does is hold the two sides togther no need for tape the O ring does all the work as far as holding back the water

[billzie]

If it is a threaded union, you should use a tape or sealant on the threads, but not on the union ring.
Bill.

[dragon_slayer]

silicone oil/grease on the O-ring will fix any leaky union that is otherwise undamaged.

kc

[allstar.h2o]

If the union is really old the O-ring could be flattened. you can get replacement O-rings.

[Whale4Ver1.1]

make sure the 2 halves are lined up good and if its still leaking try another 1/4 turn see if it slows down. if not replace seal.

[Reeforbust]

Originally posted by dragon_slayer
silicone oil/grease on the O-ring will fix any leaky union that is otherwise undamaged.

kc

Lube it up!

The rubber O ring is what stops the leaks....not Teflon on the threads. If the water is getting to the threads then you need to lube the O ring or replace it.

[Sindjin]

So what is reef safe to lube the O-Rings with?
Im thinkin' Vaseline...

[Reeforbust]

I used KY..........its water based I think.

You know, if you just happen to have some KY sittin around...:lol2:

[kgross]

If the union itself is leaking, you might need a new O-ring or to lube it. If the leak is where the union fastens on to the other pipe, if it is threaded it does need thread tape, it is a solvent welded one, you might try putting more glue around the joint and see if you can get it to seal.

Kim

[dragon_slayer]

Originally posted by Sindjin
So what is reef safe to lube the O-Rings with?
Im thinkin' Vaseline...

as mentioned above, 100% silicone oil/grease.

kc

[AQUAN8TOR]

vaseline is not safe for a lot of orings. Silicone o-ring lubricant is preferable. Try http://www.aquaticeco.com/index.cfm/fuseaction/product.detail/iid/6889/cid/1871

works great. I used rainbow's silicone oring lube for years, but this is FAR more economical.

[mrreuben]

im with the other guys that suggested lubeing it up. Dont use vasaline because petroleum based lubes will weaken orings. I would go with silicone grease. thats what i always used when fixing leaks on sinks and what not.

[Sindjin]

Just to let y'all know... I dont actually have a leaking union. Im just taking preventative measures. Thanks for all the input!!!!!

Oh...

Reeforbust...

Yeah, I think my wife would let me use a little KY for some OTHER things!
:)

[dragon_slayer]

just a FYI if you did your job right you wouldn't have a need for KY around the house.

:thumbsup:
kc

[Sindjin]

Oh... it's for when Im not "around the house."

:fun1:

[dragon_slayer]

She doesn't need it when YOU are not around :)

j/k
kc