How to Remove a Compression Fitting From a Plumbing Pipe

Stuck with a leaky faucet or planning a kitchen remodel? You might need to remove a compression fitting from a plumbing pipe—a common but tricky task for both homeowners and new plumbers. These fittings are designed to be secure and watertight, which makes them durable but challenging to take apart without the right technique. Don’t worry—you’re not alone, and with the right guidance, you can do it without damaging your pipes or calling an expensive plumber.

What Is a Compression Fitting—and Why Is It Hard to Remove?

A compression fitting is a type of plumbing connection that uses a nut and a ferrule (or olive) to create a watertight seal around a pipe—typically copper or PEX. Unlike soldered joints, they don’t require heat, making them popular for accessible connections under sinks or behind appliances.

However, once tightened, the ferrule compresses permanently onto the pipe. This creates a strong seal but also means you can’t simply unscrew and reuse the same fitting on the same section of pipe. According to the Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors Association (PHCC), over 60% of DIY plumbing failures involving compression fittings stem from improper removal or reinstallation.

💡 Fun Fact: Compression fittings were first patented in the late 19th century and remain widely used today due to their reliability in low-to-medium pressure applications (Wikipedia).

Tools You’ll Need

Before you start, gather these essential tools:

• Adjustable wrench or pipe wrench (2 recommended)
• Compression ring puller (optional but highly effective)
• Hacksaw or tubing cutter (for worst-case scenarios)
• Emery cloth or fine sandpaper
• Penetrating oil (like WD-40) – only if the nut is corroded
• Safety gloves and goggles

⚠️ Warning: Never use excessive force. Forcing a stuck nut can crack the pipe or damage surrounding fixtures.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Remove a Compression Fitting From a Plumbing Pipe

Follow these precise steps to avoid costly mistakes:

Step 1: Shut Off the Water Supply

Locate the nearest shutoff valve and turn it clockwise. Open the faucet downstream to drain residual water. Confirm no pressure remains by briefly turning the faucet on.

Step 2: Loosen the Compression Nut

Use one wrench to hold the pipe steady and another to turn the compression nut counterclockwise. Apply steady, even pressure—don’t jerk or hammer. If the nut won’t budge:

• Spray penetrating oil and wait 10–15 minutes.
• Tap the nut gently with a hammer to break corrosion (not recommended on older pipes).

Step 3: Slide Off the Nut and Ferrule

Once the nut is off, you’ll see the brass or copper ferrule crimped tightly onto the pipe. This is the hard part—the ferrule is deformed and won’t slide off easily.

Option A: Use a Compression Ring Puller (Best Method)

This inexpensive tool ($10–$15 at hardware stores) grips the ferrule and pulls it straight off without scratching the pipe. Insert the jaws behind the ferrule, tighten the screw, and pull.

Option B: Cut the Ferrule (Last Resort)

If you don’t have a puller:

1. Use a hacksaw to make a shallow cut along the ferrule’s length—do not cut into the pipe.
2. Insert a flathead screwdriver into the cut and gently pry the ferrule open.
3. Peel it off like a banana skin.

📏 Pro Tip: Measure your pipe diameter first (usually 1/2″ or 3/4″). Most compression fittings are sized accordingly—using the wrong tool can cause slippage.

Step 4: Clean and Inspect the Pipe

After removal:

• Sand the pipe end with emery cloth to remove burrs or residue.
• Check for dents, cracks, or oval deformation. Even minor damage can prevent a new fitting from sealing properly.
• If the pipe is damaged, cut off the affected section with a tubing cutter and install a new piece.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Can You Reuse a Compression Fitting?

Short answer: No—not on the same pipe section.

The ferrule is permanently deformed during installation. Even if you manage to slide it back on, it won’t compress evenly, leading to leaks. However, you can reuse the compression nut if it’s undamaged—just pair it with a brand-new ferrule.

🔧 Expert Insight: “I’ve seen countless callbacks because homeowners reused old olives,” says Maria Lopez, master plumber with 18 years of experience in Chicago. “It’s a $2 part—just replace it.”

When to Call a Professional

Consider hiring a licensed plumber if:

• The pipe is in a tight space (e.g., inside a wall)
• You’re working with old, brittle copper (pre-1980s)
• Multiple fittings need replacement
• You’ve already caused a leak or pipe damage

According to HomeAdvisor, the average cost to fix a leaking compression fitting ranges from $150–$300, far less than water damage repairs ($2,000+ on average).

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I remove a compression fitting without special tools?

Yes—but it’s harder. A hacksaw and flathead screwdriver can work in a pinch, but a compression ring puller saves time and prevents pipe damage.

Q2: Why won’t my compression nut loosen?

Corrosion, mineral buildup, or over-tightening are common causes. Try penetrating oil and gentle tapping. If it’s fused, cutting the pipe may be necessary.

Q3: Do I need to shut off the main water supply?

Only if there’s no local shutoff valve near the fixture. Always drain the line before starting.

Q4: Can I use Teflon tape on compression fittings?

No. Teflon tape is for threaded joints (like NPT). Compression fittings rely on metal-to-metal contact—tape can interfere with sealing.

Q5: How long does it take to remove a compression fitting?

With the right tools: 10–20 minutes. Without them or with corrosion: up to an hour.

Q6: Are compression fittings permanent?

They’re semi-permanent. While not designed for frequent disassembly, they can be removed and replaced when needed—just not reused identically.

Conclusion

Knowing how to remove a compression fitting from a plumbing pipe empowers you to handle leaks, upgrades, or renovations confidently—saving time and money. With the right tools, patience, and this guide, you’ll avoid common pitfalls and ensure a clean, professional result.

🔧 Did this guide help you fix your plumbing issue? Share it with a friend or on social media—your DIY win could inspire someone else to tackle their next home project!

✅ Remember: Safety first, measure twice, and never reuse a ferrule. Happy plumbing!