Ah! The dreaded kitchen sink leak is an unwelcome surprise that can quickly turn into a nightmare for any homeowner. What may seem like a harmless little drip can not only lead to extensive water damage making your water bill skyrocket, but if left unchecked for long it can infect your house with mould and make your wallet weep with an enormous repairs bill. Luckily, in most cases you can easily tackle this common plumbing issue yourself. At ABA Plumbing & Gas our Adelaide kitchen sink leak experts have put together this step-by-step guide that will help you fix that annoying leak like a seasoned pro.

4 Ways to Fix Your Kitchen Sink

Step 1: Identify the Source of the Leak

Before you roll up your sleeves, you need to figure out where the leak is coming from. Here’s how:

• Taps: Take a close look around the base of the tap. Are there drips or puddles? Don’t forget to check the handles and spout, as they’re often the sneaky culprits.
• Pipes: Next, inspect the water supply lines and drain pipes. Look for any moisture, especially at joints and connections—these spots are notorious for leaks.
• Seals: Don’t overlook the seals! Check around the sink, where it meets the countertop and where the drain connects.

If you can pinpoint the leak’s origin, you’re already halfway to fixing it!

Step 2: Tighten Connections

If you find a loose connection during your inspection, it’s time to tighten things up:

Tools You’ll Need: Grab a pair of pliers or a wrench, depending on what fittings are in use.

Method: Carefully tighten the loose connections. Be careful, though—overtightening can strip threads or damage the fittings, which might lead to even more leaks!

Step 3: Replace Worn-Out Parts

If the leak is still hanging around or you’ve discovered it’s due to a worn-out part, a replacement may be in order. Here are the usual suspects:

• Washers: These small rubber or silicone rings live in taps and drains. A cracked or damaged washer can cause all sorts of leaks.
• Seals: O-rings and other seals can wear down over time, leading to leaks at the connection points.
• Tap Components: If your tap is the source of the leak, it may be time to replace the whole fixture or specific internal parts.

Before you get started, remember to turn off the water supply!
Turn off the water supply valves: You’ll usually find these hiding under the sink.
Drain the tap: Open it up to let any leftover water flow out.
Remove the old part: Use your tools to take out the worn-out component.
Install the new part: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions, making sure everything fits snugly.

Step 4: Call a Professional Plumber Adelaide

If you can’t track down the leak or if things look a bit too complicated, it’s time to call in a pro. At ABA Plumbing & Gas, our team has the expertise and specialised tools to quickly diagnose and fix any kitchen sink leak, saving you from potential disaster down the line. Don’t hesitate to reach out—we’re here to help!

Preventing Future Leaks
While you can’t stop every leak, you can take proactive steps to minimise the chances of one sneaking up on you:

•   Inspect Regularly: Make it a habit to check under your sink for any signs of water damage or leaks. Catching issues early can save you time and money.
•   Keep Drains Clear: Be mindful of what goes down your kitchen sink. Avoid tossing grease, food scraps, or debris down there, as they can cause clogs and leaks. Regularly clean your drains to maintain smooth flow.
•   Replace Old Fixtures: If your sink, tap, or plumbing is looking a little worn out, consider replacing it. Upgrading before a failure can prevent unexpected leaks.
•   Be Cautious with Cleaning Products: Some harsh chemicals can damage pipes over time. Whenever possible, opt for natural cleaning methods to keep your plumbing in good shape.

Contact ABA Plumbing & Gas For All Your Plumbing Needs In Adelaide

As your local Adelaide plumber we can be at your doorstep at any time of the day or night and our skilled plumber is always on a standby – available 24×7, throughout the year, which means that relief for your leaking kitchen sink and water problems is never far away! Contact us today for professional, reliable service that you can trust.