Water supply pipes carry water under pressure, normally about 50 pounds per square inch (PSI). Because of this pressure, if a pipe or fitting springs a leak, the water usually sprays out with considerable force. In order to make any type of repair to the pipes, you must first turn off the water at the control valve. For more about control valves, see How to Shut Off Water to Fixtures or Your House. Most modern home water supply pipes are copper, soldered together with elbows, tees, and other fittings. Threaded galvanized iron pipes are also common, particularly in older homes, but are being phased out because they tend to get clogged by mineral deposits over time. Plastic pipes often supply water to outdoor sprinkler systems.
For information on how to handle specific repairs to various types of water pipes, please see the listings below.
See also: Pipe sizes and materials.
