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Leaking water pipes are easier to fix than you might think. Here's the DIY approach that won't require soldering or a call to a plumber.

Water leaks are a homeowner's nightmare, but there's a good chance you can repair it yourself without calling in an expensive plumber. 

Pinhole leaks are commonplace and the only way to properly fix them is by removing the leaking section of pipe and replacing it, with either copper, PEX, or PVC pipe. Copper and PEX piping are the preferred alternatives and can be used in place of the leaking pipe by using sharkbite couplings.

Start by turning off the main water line to your home and bleeding the system of water so you don't get drenched when opening up the pipe. Then use a pipe cutter to remove the leaking section. The round AutoCut pipe cutters work great as they can be used in tight spaces and cut the pipe as you turn it clockwise.

The video below from Home Repair Tutor, shows this process in detail, and how easy it actually is.

After removing the old pipe you'll need to attach a sharkbite coupling to each remaining waterline end. Use a sharkbite depth tool or simply measure what is required based on the diameter of your pipe, and mark how deep your sharkbite couplings should sit on the pipe. You'll need to deburr the ends of the new and existing pipe and use an emery cloth to smooth the ends out.

Once each end is ready and you've measured and cut your new pipe, just insert it tightly into the sharkbite fitting and you're finished.

Plumbing problems are most often left to the professionals, but if you're willing to take a quick trip to the hardware store, then you're capable of repairing a pinhole leak yourself.

Timothy is a lifelong DIY enthusiast who is fixated on smart home tech, beautiful tools, and wrenching on his FJ62 Land Cruiser.  He’s the DIY editor at Popular Mechanics and also the founder of the home improvement site, Charles & Hudson, the Webby-nominated family site, Built by Kids, and Tool Crave. When not working, you’ll find him on his board or bike enjoying the LA weather with his family and friends. Follow him on Instagram and Twitter.

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