When you need to pick new pipes or replace old ones, there are lots of types to think about. Each kind has its own good points and not-so-good points. Here’s a clear rundown of the most common types of plumbing pipes you might look at:
Copper Pipes
Copper is well-known for lasting a really long time, often more than 50 years. It doesn’t rust and it won’t make your water dirty, which makes it a top pick for the pipes that bring water to your house. Copper is also good for the planet because you can recycle it. But, it’s one of the pricier options and putting it in can be tricky because it needs to be soldered.
PVC Pipes
PVC is very popular because it doesn’t cost too much and it’s pretty easy to put in. It doesn’t rust and it’s good at handling high water pressure, which makes it great for drinking water pipes and sewer lines. But, PVC isn’t good for hot water pipes because it can get soft or even melt if it gets too hot. Also, making and throwing away PVC isn’t great for the environment.
PEX Pipes
PEX is a favorite because it’s flexible, which means it’s easy to install and less likely to leak since it doesn’t need many connections. It works well for both hot and cold water. PEX also doesn’t rust or get a buildup of minerals. However, you can’t let it get sunlight and some people worry it might make the water taste or smell different. It’s also a bit more expensive than PVC.
Galvanized Steel Pipes
Galvanized steel pipes used to be common because they’re tough and can handle a lot of pressure, which is good for some big jobs. But they’re not used much in homes anymore because they can rust over time. This rust can make the water dirty and slow down the flow.
CPVC Pipes
CPVC is a lot like PVC but it’s been treated with chlorine so it can handle hot water because it can take higher temperatures. It has many of the same good points as PVC, like being resistant to most chemicals and easy to install. But like PVC, CPVC isn’t good for outdoor use because sunlight can damage it, and making and getting rid of CPVC can be bad for the environment and health.
ABS Pipes
ABS is another type of plastic pipe known for being really tough and good for cold places, which makes it perfect for outside or underground pipes. It’s good in the cold and when things hit it, but sunlight and some chemicals can damage it, so you can’t use it everywhere.
Conclusion
Each kind of pipe has its own set of pluses and minuses, and the right choice depends a lot on what you need the pipe for, where you live, and how much you want to spend. When picking pipes, it’s important to think about all these things to find the best type for your home.
If you need assistance for minor or major issues, we got you covered, contact AO Dowd Plumbing, Plumber in Fontana any time at 909-684-1915 or at aodowdplumbing@gmail.com