Diagnosing and Resolving Leak Locations with the Thirsty Earth Olla Watering KitUpdated 10 days ago

Leak Locations and Solutions:

1. Push-to-Connect Elbow Fitting (Horizontal)

   • Issue: Tubing needs to be pressed in tighter, or the tubing is jagged or out of round.
   • Solution: Ensure the tubing is securely and evenly pressed into the fitting.

2. Push-to-Connect Elbow Fitting (Vertical)

   • Issue: Tubing isn't securely in the fitting and has sunk into the cup.
   • Solution: Pull the tubing back up, tighten the octagonal cap nut, remove the elbow, and reattach it securely.

3. Pooling in the Cap

   • Issue 1: Cap nut isn't tight enough.
     • Solution: Tighten the cap nut.
   • Issue 2: Push-to-connect issue (refer to solutions for push-to-connect fittings above).
   • Issue 3: O-ring displaced when cap nut was removed and replaced.
     • Solution: Ensure the O-ring is centered to prevent gushing leaks.

4. Bleed Screw

   • Issue 1: Not tight enough, preventing a proper seal.
     • Solution: Tighten the bleed screw.
   • Issue 2: Overtightened, pushing the O-ring up and preventing a proper seal.
     • Solution: Adjust the bleed screw to avoid pushing the O-ring.
   • Issue 3: Overtightened, cracking the plastic around it.
     • Solution: Inspect for cracks and replace the bleed screw or affected part if necessary.

5. Seam Between the Cup and the Cap

   • Issue 1: Zip tie isn't tight enough.
     • Solution: Remove the zip tie by slipping it off sideways, tighten by 1-2 clicks, and reattach.
   • Issue 2: Gasket seal is bent out of round.
     • Solution: Remove the cup cap, straighten the gasket seal, and ensure it is centered and even when reattaching the cap.

6. The Cup Itself

   • Issue: Crack or break in the terra cotta.
     • Solution: Inspect the cup for cracks or breaks, which are easier to spot when the cup is removed. Replace if necessary.

By following these guidelines, you can effectively recognize, diagnose, and troubleshoot all potential leak locations.