How to Fix a Dripping Pipe on a Furnace

A furnace hooked up to a steam radiator system or water tank works with pipes to connect the components. Over time, almost any pipe connection may develop a leak. Leaks cannot only damage system components, but make your furnace less efficient. Fixing a dripping pipe on a furnace typically takes less than an hour, depending on the length of time needed to disconnect and prep the pipe to stop the leak.

Silicon-based spray lubricant
Adjustable pipe wrench
Bucket
Old rags
Teflon plumber's tape
Scissor

Instructions

- 1
  Shut off the furnace and wait for it to cool.
- 2
  Twist the knob clockwise on the water valve that controls flow through the pipe to turn off the water.
- 3
  Spray the hex nut at the pipe connection with lubricant on all sides. Wait at least 15 minutes for the lubricant to work into the threading.
- 4
  Twist the nut counterclockwise to unscrew it from the pipe using the adjustable pipe wrench.
- 5
  Hold a bucket below the connection to catch excess water. Set aside the bucket when the pipe drains to a trickle.
- 6
  Clean the threading on the pipe as well as the threads inside the nut with old rags to remove grime. Wipe the connections dry with a clean rag.
- 7
  Wrap the threading on the pipe with Teflon plumber's tape,which is temperature resistant and effective in stopping minor drips. Wrap the threads in a counterclockwise direction and cut the tape close to the pipe with scissors.
- 8
  Reattach the pipe to the connection on the furnace with the nut. Twist the nut clockwise by hand as far as it will turn, then finish the connection by turning the nut with the pipe wrench.

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