Leak on pvc from the return.

Fishcrisp

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Hello,
I just noticed this leak last night after seeing water on the floor. How can I fix it, and what should I use?
Thank you.

Screenshot_20260518_221326_Samsung Browser.jpg 20260518_220328.jpg
 

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Gumbies R Us

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TDehler

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You will likely have to take that piece off and put some PVC glue on that piece to stop the leak. That does mean those 2 pieces would be permanently attached, so just keep that in mind if that's something you think you would ever change in the future.
 

BeanAnimal

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Yes, if those joints are not solvent welded, they need to be. PVC slip socket fittings were never meant to be self sealing.
 
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Fishcrisp

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You will likely have to take that piece off and put some PVC glue on that piece to stop the leak. That does mean those 2 pieces would be permanently attached, so just keep that in mind if that's something you think you would ever change in the future.
You know the best way to remove them? I was trying by hand just coudnt get pull it apart. Any pvc glue is fine?
 

TDehler

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You know the best way to remove them? I was trying by hand just coudnt get pull it apart. Any pvc glue is fine?
You might need to drain the water a little, just so it doesn't flow out of the new hole when you remove it but yea, try twisting and pulling. I believe most PVC glues are mostly fine, but put it on the outside of the smaller piece so you don't get extra glue inside the pipe where the water would be flowing to be extra safe. I can't remember where exactly I saw the thread but there are a few threads you can finding talking about what PVC glues are reef safe (again, I think most are, I have at least heard of people using both the clear and thhe purple glue on succesful systems.)
 

slingfox

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You can do a search on YouTube for “fix PVC leak” and you’ll see various options. If this was piping inside your home the proper way without a doubt to fix would be to cut the pipe and install a new section. Less complicated but less reliable fixes include using something like JB Water Weld.
 

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