How to Connect Push Fit Plumbing to Copper

Before you begin installing push-to-connect plumbing fittings, make sure that the pipe is clean and free of any debris. If you see any burrs or sharp edges, remove them before fitting. Burrs and sharp edges can affect the connection and cause leaks. After removing any burrs or sharp edges, mark the appropriate insertion depth on the copper pipe. Then, push the fitting into place. You can purchase a set of tools to connect PEX tubes to copper pipes. Some kits come with the necessary tools, including a pipe cutter, deburring tool, disconnect tongs, elbows, and end caps. Capillary fittings require skillful assembly and aren’t suitable for do-it-yourselfers. Despite their complexity, however, they are the cheapest and most durable solution to join copper pipe. Push-fit fittings are made of metal spurs and teeth, which grip the pipe tightly. The fittings also feature a neoprene o-ring that creates a water-tight seal. Push-fit fittings can be installed in a variety of ways, but they’re generally only compatible with rigid copper pipe, PEX pipe, and CPVC pipe. You can also use some smaller fittings for polyethylene or other types of plastic tubing. Using a sharkbite deburring & gauge tool, mark the fitting’s depth on the copper pipe. Insert the fitting until it fits fully and the markings are flush with the pipe. After that, turn the water on to test the connection. If you’re successful, you’ve connected your plumbing! But there’s a few steps you need to follow to ensure a proper connection. First, you need to disconnect the water supply. You should find the water meter near your sewer line or on the side of your house. You can then remove the push-fit fitting. If it is not, you’ll need to connect the pipe to a new water supply line. Then, you can install the new fitting. Then, you’re ready to connect your push-fit plumbing to copper. The other way to connect push-fit plumbing to copper is through soldering. To connect the copper pipe to the new fitting, you’ll need an open flame and solder. This method is a permanent option, but it is tricky to do in tight spaces or places where heat shouldn’t be used. Also, it’s not recommended if the copper tubing is located close to walls. This is when compression fittings come in handy. However, you’ll need to use special compression tools to install a compression fitting. Another option to consider for plumbing connections is using PEX. PEX plumbing tubing is easy to manipulate and can be connected to copper pipes. PEX components make connecting pipes easy. Unlike copper, it’s much less expensive and won’t corrode in acidic water. PEX pipes also have a greater flexibility than copper pipes. When using them, however, make sure to allow them to drop between fixings so that they don’t kink. During a long run, you can also include loops. Before you begin connecting push fit plumbing to copper, you should ream the pipe to be connected. This will remove sharp edges. Also, you’ll want to cut the pipe as close as possible to the fitting. Copper pipe often extends around a half-inch into the fitting. Depending on the thickness of the pipe, you might need to cut it a bit to get the right fit. If you’re not sure about your cutting ability, a tube cutter can help you with this task. Click here to learn more about recommended boiler installers in derby area.