3 copper tubes side by side by side

Push-Fit Vs. Copper Plumbing – Pros and Cons of Each

April 23 2020

Push-Fit Vs. Copper Plumbing

Having a little knowledge about your home’s plumbing can certainly go a long way. It can save you money. Especially when you never know when plumbing issues will pop up.

Everyone encounters leaky faucets or clogged toilets, but what if your plumbing problems go beyond these basic fixes? Can you evaluate push-fit vs. copper plumbing and which is right for you?

If you have an older home with all copper piping, you can change all of those old pipes and fittings without much plumbing experience. If the thought of calling in a plumber gives you nightmares in which your hard-earned money flies out of a window, you’re not alone. A plumber can easily charge you well over $100 to replace one section of copper pipe.

If you are intrigued about the differences between push-fit vs. copper fittings so you can avoid expense, read on.

Copper Plumbing

There is a long history of materials used in plumbing. Copper fittings have been the most popular for a very long time. If you are wondering about push-fit fittings vs. copper fittings, there are real differences to think about.

First, it’s necessary to think about why copper pipes are used in plumbing. Once, galvanized steel was used in all pipes. It wasn’t long, however, before they were replaced with copper piping. Steel has a tendency to corrode over time, whereas copper pipes can last for decades.

Advantages of Copper Pipes:

Copper is naturally corrosion-resistant and very lightweight. This makes it easy to work with. This is handy because you can use a lot of piping when faced with a big plumbing job.

Fortunately, copper is also less expensive than steel. And using it can be better for the environment than other materials because it is lead-free, and, as a natural material, unlike plastic, it doesn’t create emissions or the like during its manufacture.

Disadvantages of Copper Pipes:

Even though copper pipes are much better than galvanized steel pipes, materials such as PEX and CPVC are even better. Copper pipes cost more than plastic. And they often encounter problems with water acidity; if you have water that is being tapped from a well, it’s best not to use copper pipes.

Push-Fit Plumbing

Because they are so easy for the homeowner to use, push-fit fittings have become increasingly popular. These types of fittings can now be found in just about any hardware or home improvement store.

Advantages of Push-Fit Fittings:

PVC and CPVC require a solvent-gluing technique. Copper pipes need to be soldered with a torch. Push-fit fittings, however, don’t require any of these. And they can be used by anyone, regardless of experience levels.

Push-fit fittings are engineered with a ring of metal spurs that sit inside the fittings. These grip the pipes tightly when inserted into the fitting sockets. Tight, waterproof seals are formed thanks to Neoprene O-rings. These pipe fittings are safe to use for any pipe connection inside your home, even deep in walls or ceilings.

Disadvantages of Push-Fit Fittings

Push-fit fittings are easy to install and work great. Having said that, you cannot always use push-fit fittings. Plastic piping cannot be used in any gas or oil installation. Nor is it recommended for compressed air installations.

Their appearance may also be a factor. Push-fit fittings look bulkier than copper fittings. If you will be looking at exposed pipe, it’s best to consider copper piping rather than push-fit fittings.

At Hanover Supply, we offer our customers the largest selection of plumbing inventory you will find. For all of your plumbing projects, just let us know what you are looking for and you’ll find it waiting for you here. If you still have questions about push-fit vs. copper, give us a call and we’ll be happy to explain what it’s all about.

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