Step 8 · Cool and Clean the Finished Joint
Let the newly soldered joint cool naturally for several minutes. Do not try to cool it rapidly by quenching it with water, as this can stress the joint and cause a fracture. Once it is cool to the touch, take a damp rag and thoroughly wipe down the joint and surrounding pipe to remove all excess flux residue. Water-soluble flux can be corrosive if left on the pipe, potentially causing pinhole leaks over time.