A leaking RO wastes water, damages the wall and can short the SMPS or pump. The good news: most leaks come from a few common points and are cheap to fix. Switch off the power and close the inlet valve before you start.
First, find where the water is coming from
Wipe everything dry with a cloth, switch the purifier back on and watch for 5–10 minutes. Tissue paper wrapped around each joint shows the exact leak point quickly.
7 common leak points and fixes
| Leak point | Likely cause | Fix |
|---|---|---|
| Pipe joints and elbows | Pipe not pushed fully in, or cut at an angle | Cut the pipe straight, push it in fully and lock the clip. Replace a worn connector or elbow |
| Pre-filter housing (bowl) | Missing, twisted or hardened O-ring; housing not tightened | Clean and re-seat the O-ring, tighten with a housing spanner. Replace the housing if cracked |
| Membrane housing cap | O-ring damaged after membrane change | Replace the O-ring or the membrane housing |
| Inlet ball valve / tap adaptor | Thread not taped, valve worn | Wrap Teflon tape on threads, or replace the inlet ball valve |
| Storage tank overflowing | Float valve stuck or SV not closing | See RO tank overflow fix |
| Faucet (dispensing tap) | Worn washer or loose nut | Tighten the nut or replace the RO faucet |
| Drain pipe | Drain line loose or pushed out | Fix the drain pipe properly in the drain saddle or outlet |
Leak only when the purifier is off?
If water drips after the RO stops, the solenoid valve may not be shutting fully, or there is back-flow from the tank. Read our solenoid valve guide to test it.
Safety first
- Keep water away from the SMPS/adaptor and pump – unplug before touching anything wet.
- Never over-tighten plastic fittings with pliers; they crack.
- After any repair, run the purifier for 10 minutes and check again with dry tissue.
Frequently asked questions
Why is my RO leaking from the bottom?
Most bottom leaks come from a pre-filter housing O-ring, a loose pipe joint or tank overflow. Dry everything and check each joint with tissue paper.
Can I use Teflon tape on RO fittings?
Yes, on threaded joints only (like the inlet valve or tap adaptor). Push-fit joints need a straight-cut pipe, not tape.
Is it safe to use the RO while it is leaking?
Only if the leak is far from electrical parts. Otherwise switch it off until the leak is fixed.
Need help choosing the right part? Send a photo of your RO or its model name on WhatsApp (96252 23245) and we will tell you exactly what fits. Original parts at wholesale rates, Cash on Delivery and All India delivery.
Need the right part for your RO?
Original filters, membranes and pumps at wholesale rates. Send us a photo of your RO – we will tell you exactly what fits.
