I've known about a 1/2" pvc pipe leading out of my house since I moved 18 months ago. I assumed it was drainage for AC condensation in the attic until it was still running even when AC isn't on. It caused a leak because it wasn't angled enough (imagine slowly pouring a glass of water so it runs under the underside and back to your hand) and the water dripped back into the wall. So I ripped out the drywall and traced it up to the main floor and just realized I have this offshoot of the hot water line under my kitchen sink (see picture). Same size pipe and directly above so I'm pretty confident this is the source of the pipe leading outside. I know to fix the angle of the pipe, but I'm curious what this is and if I should run it away from my house with more pvc (currently dripping under my deck and likely into the foundation) or if I can cap it.
What is this drainage pipe under kitchen sink that leads outside?
- Thread starter rigg8280
- Start date
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- Tags
- leak pipe sink water damage
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Jeff Handy
Pro Handyman, NOT A Pro Plumber
Maybe a remote temperature and pressure relief valve and drain line for the water heater?
The water heater is one level down with plenty of access to the exterior wall (where the drainage goes now along with ac condensation). However, this under-sink setup was before expansion tanks were required so maybe related to pressure relief? My other concern is if this has a steady drip, I'm guessing this isn't helping my water bill.
It’s a pressure relief valve
Jeff Handy
Pro Handyman, NOT A Pro Plumber
Maybe you could convert the relief valve into a shutoff valve.
Then convert the pipe outside into a sillcock.
Just an idea.
Then convert the pipe outside into a sillcock.
Just an idea.
Jim Jensen
Well-Known Member
would be hot water... if car washing is near that point, might be good to have...
Jeff Handy
Pro Handyman, NOT A Pro Plumber
You are right, I forgot it was hot water.
But still might be welcome, as you suggested.
But still might be welcome, as you suggested.
No desire to use this water outside. So it sounds like this is a PRV that's probably 20 years old and slowly leaking. So would I be safe to cap it since my water heater has one or do I need to replace it with something like this: Campbell Relief Valve 1/2 " < 0.25 % Lead: Household Rough Plumbing Valves: Amazon.com: Industrial & Scientific
Yes if your water heater has one you can remove it
