Easy fix for small plumbing leaks
Sometimes when it rains it pours. In my case it was raining above and below the kitchen sink (one drip at a time). The reverse osmosis "RO" system (water filtration system for drinking water) under my kitchen sink began leaking at a compression fitting after replacing the filters. At the same time, a leak developed from the kitchen faucet cartridge. The good news was expensive replacement parts were not necessary. I repaired the leaks with silicone grease made by Danco. Silicone grease can be used to lubricate the O-rings in the cartridge and the compression fittings for the RO system. Silicone grease can be purchased at your local hardware store for under five dollars.
The silicone grease works well because it does not damage the rubber O-rings. It does not dissolve in water and is stable in high heat (which means it maintains its viscosity). The grease will not help if the O-ring is missing or cut.
I disassembled the cartridge to lubricate the O-rings. A Q-Tip was helpful to lubricate the O-ring on the compression fitting for the RO system. Then, I reassembled the faucet and the RO system compression fitting and enjoyed leak free systems!
P.S. This product can also be used on the threads of exterior hose bibbs to make connecting and disconnecting hoses easier.
Links to the Danco silicone grease:
https://www.homedepot.com/p/DANCO-0-5-oz-Silicone-Faucet-Grease-88693/203193536
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