Home Improvement 101: The DIY Guide to Replacing Copper Plumbing with PVC

If you're on the fence about the next plumbing step for your home, you might be asking: why should I consider replacing my copper plumbing with PVC?

As the landscape of home renovation shifts, PVC is steadily gaining recognition as a good option to copper, offering an array of undeniable advantages.

In this guide, we'll see the reasons why homeowners are looking to switch to PVC, spotlight its inherent benefits, and provide you with a detailed walkthrough of the transition process.

Top reasons replacing copper plumbing with PVC is a better option

Soldering a copper pipe (photo: pixabay)

Here are the main reasons many homeowners and professionals are opting for PVC over copper for plumbing:

• Cost-effective: PVC is generally much cheaper than copper. This cost difference can be especially pronounced for larger projects. Not only is the material itself less expensive, but the labor for installation often tends to be more affordable since PVC is easier and quicker to install.
• Corrosion resistance: One of the primary issues with copper pipes is that they can corrode, especially if the water has a particular pH level or if it carries certain minerals. This corrosion can lead to leaks, reduced water quality, and other problems. PVC, on the other hand, does not corrode, providing a longer-lasting solution in many scenarios.
• Ease of installation: PVC pipes are lightweight and easy to handle. They can be glued together without the need for soldering, making the installation process faster and more straightforward, especially for DIY enthusiasts.
• Flexibility: Unlike rigid copper pipes, some types of PVC (like CPVC) offer a bit more flexibility, making them less likely to burst under freezing conditions.
• Reduced heat conduction: Copper pipes can conduct heat away from hot water, leading to heat loss as water travels from the heater to the faucet. PVC doesn't conduct heat as well, ensuring that hot water retains its temperature more effectively as it moves through the pipes.
• Low maintenance: Given its resistance to corrosion and buildup, PVC often requires less maintenance than copper. This can lead to long-term savings and fewer headaches for homeowners.
• Chemical resistance: PVC pipes tend to be resistant to many chemicals, making them suitable for various applications where copper might deteriorate or react.

It's worth noting, however, that while PVC has these advantages, it also has some limitations. For instance, PVC isn't as heat-resistant as copper, making it unsuitable for certain high-temperature applications.

On the other hand, PVC plastic, while popular and versatile, comes with certain concerns. It contains substances such as vinyl chloride and organotin compounds that can potentially seep into the water, posing health risks. Consequently, its use in drinking water systems is typically advised against.

It's crucial to balance the advantages and disadvantages, keeping your specific project needs and conditions in mind.

Related:

Copper vs. PEX: comparing pros and cons

Benefits of PEX plumbing

Required tools and material

Tools:

• Pipe cutter or hacksaw: For cutting through the old copper pipes.
• Pipe wrench: Useful for loosening and tightening pipe fittings.
• Measuring tape or ruler
• Sandpaper or emery cloth: For smoothing the edges of cut copper pipes and cleaning them before attaching fittings.
  
• Safety glasses
  
• Gloves
• Protective clothing

Materials:

• PVC pipes: Ensure they're of the appropriate diameter and type for your plumbing needs.
• PVC fittings: Elbows, tees, couplings, etc., depending on the specifics of your plumbing layout.
• Transition fittings
• PVC primer: Prepares the PVC surfaces for a bond.
• PVC cement (solvent): Used to bond PVC pipe sections and fittings together.
• Teflon tape or thread sealant: For any threaded connections, ensuring a watertight seal.
• Bucket

Instructions

1. Turn off the water at the main valve and drain the system by opening faucets to relieve pressure.
2. Cut out sections of the copper piping using a pipe cutter or hacksaw. Smooth any rough edges. When dealing with water heaters, ensure you leave a minimum of 6 inches of copper pipe attached to both the inlet and outlet ports.
3. Measure and cut the PVC pipe to the desired length, accounting for the fittings.
4. Install transition fittings. Clean the end of the copper pipe, slide on the metal end of the transition fitting, and solder it in place. Prepare the PVC side of the fitting with primer, then glue and attach the PVC pipe.
5. Complete the PVC plumbing system by adding any required sections, using PVC primer and solvent cement for all connections.
6. Allow all connections to set. Soldered joints need to cool, and PVC adhesive typically requires several hours to cure fully.
7. Supporting horizontal piping properly to prevent sagging, undue stress, and potential damage. Use U-shaped pipe hangers or straps that wrap around the PVC pipe for securement. Place supports every 3-4 feet, but always check local building codes for specific spacing requirements.
   
8. Turn the water back on gradually and inspect for any leaks.

Understanding transition fittings

Copper to PVC transition fitting (photo: amazon)

Transition fittings play a pivotal role as connectors when merging two distinct piping materials. Specifically, when bridging copper and PVC, these fittings are uniquely crafted to tightly and securely combine the two.

One end of the transition fitting is typically made of metal (often copper or brass) to connect with the copper pipe, while the other end is made of PVC or CPVC to join with the PVC pipe.

When looking into the varieties of transition fittings, there are a few to consider:

• Couplings: Designed to directly link two pipes, they generally possess a slip (or smooth) end on both sides.
  
• Compression fittings: Connect pipes without soldering, welding, or adhesive.
• Push-fit fittings: Offer quick, tool-free connections and are suitable for connecting copper, PEX, and CPVC.
• Threaded adapters: One side screws into a threaded pipe or fitting, while the other end connects to a different type of pipe.
  
• Rubber or Neoprene boot connectors: Suitable for larger or underground pipes, using a rubber sleeve tightened with stainless steel clamps.

When selecting a transition connector, it's essential to consider factors like the application (e.g., potable water or wastewater), pressure ratings, temperature, the compatibility of materials, and local codes or regulations. Proper installation is crucial to ensure safety and the longevity of the connection.

Conclusion

Many people are opting for replacing copper plumbing with PVC because it's generally cheaper, easier to install, and doesn’t rust. Despite these advantages, it’s pivotal to ponder what’s most suitable for your home, uphold safety, and weigh the environmental impacts of each option when making this transition.

Taking the time to look at all these factors will help you make the best decision for your home's plumbing.

Always consider local codes and regulations and ensure proper installation to guarantee the safety and longevity of the plumbing system.

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