PVC Plumbing Repairs

PVC Pipe Repairs

Introduction:

Plastic piping is now commonly used in home plumbing due to its durability and resistance to rust and corrosion that is endemic in metal piping. Plastic pipe is also easier to cut and assemble than metal piping. Acidic water does not corrode plastic pipe like it does copper, so plastic pipe is best used in high acidity areas. The most common PVC pipe fittings, pipe and cement can be found at most general hardware stores.

PVC was accidentally discovered in the 19th century. Because of this accident most DIY homeowners can make plumbing repairs without any special knowledge of soldering copper pipe or working with back iron pipe. Making PVC plumbing repairs is quite easy.

Common requirements to make PVC pipe repairs:

· PVC pipe and fittings

· Wrench

· PVC pipe cutter. This is optional as in most cases a hacksaw can be used to cut the pipe.

· File

· PVC cement

Making PVC Plumbing Repairs:

1. Before beginning a repair insure that the water to the area of the house you are working in is turn off.

2. Pull apart the broken PVC connection by hand or by using a wrench. Cut away the broken piece using the PVC cutter or a hacksaw if necessary. Remove the broken piece of pipe from the opposite joint so that the space is clear to run a new piece of pipe.

3. Measure the length of the pipe needed by holding the measuring tape end at the back of the PVC joint your new pipe will sit in to the opposite joint or connection. Make sure to take the measurement to the end of the connection to prevent cutting the new pipe piece too short.

4. Cut the new PVC pipe to the correct length. Cut using the PVC cutter or hacksaw.

5. Run a file along the edges of the newly cut PVC pipe to remove any burrs.

6. Fit check the new piece of pipe in place to insure that it will fit properly.

7. Apply PVC pipe cleaner and then PVC cement lightly on the inside of the PVC joint and on the outside of the newly cut pipe. Fit the tubes together and allow it to dry a few minutes. It the repair is on a water pressure line, allow it to dry for an hour before turning on the water.

That is how to make PVC plumbing repairs. It doesn’t make any difference if the pipe is a water pressure pipe, drain pipe, waste pipe or vent stack pipe, the repair is basically the same except for the different PVC couplings and fitting.

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