Household item to lubricate o-rings

[wowens]

I was wondering if there is something here I could use instead of yet another trip to Lowe's.

Coconut oil? Olive oil? Something I'm not thinking of....

 

[woodyp]

Something silicone based.................NOT.....................vaseline!

 

[Red Neckerson]

Here's a good primer on o-rings and the materials they are made of.

http://www.thomasnet.com/articles/hardware/o-rings-material-makeup

I suspect most o-rings in pool stuff are going to be Buna-N.

If you're lubricating just for ease of assembly - I've been successful with that just using my own spit.

If it is used in a slip joint or rotating application silicone spray or grease is best.

 

[wowens]

Thanks. As I have read 1000 times on here. But as stated, I don't have on hand and don't want to run to store. I need to use something on hand now. If coconut oil blows it up then oh well, I need something now to put pump back together and union on. Thanks guys!

 

[Bama Rambler]

Coconut oil will work well and won't harm the o-ring.