| Installing Copper Pipe |
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Copper pipe or tubing is much easier to install than galvanized steel, which copper replaced for water systems in most home construction about 50 years ago. Steel pipe was not only heavy it required special threading tools for connections. Steel pipe is still used for most natural gas and many other lines, but is only used to repair older water supply systems. For new construction and remodeling, copper is the popular choice—or requirement. As mentioned earlier in this section, there are two methods of connecting copper pipe: soldering and fitting. Many systems use both, soldering all connections except those that are on or near fixtures. Check local plumbing code for requirements. Here’s how to cut copper pipe: 1. Measure and mark the pipe to length. 2. Use a copper pipe cutter to score then cut the pipe. To cut, rotate the cutter around the pipe once, then slightly tighten the cutter and rotate it again, continuing until the pipe is cut through. 3. Use a burr remover or brush to remove excess metal from the new edge. 4. Use an emery cloth or pipe surface tool to clean the end of the pipe that will be soldered or coupled. Here’s how to solder copper pipe: 1. Coat the end of the pipe with flux (soldering paste) as specified by the manufacturer to remove oxidation. 2. Repeat the process for other pipes that will be connected at the fitting. 3. Insert the prepared pipe tips into the fitting, turning each one to evenly spread the flux. 4. Use a torch to heat the joint for a few seconds, then continue heating as you apply solder to the joint. Remodeling Safety Don’t heat the solder, just the pipe. Placing the solder against the pipe will make it melt or “sweat” and flow into the joint to fill it. That’s why they are called “sweat joints.” 5. Carefully clean the joint with a rag and check for leaks. Reheat and add solder as needed for a leak-proof joint. Here’s how to fasten copper pipe fittings: 1. Cut the pipe to the appropriate length (see above). 2. Slide a coupling nut then a compression ring over the end of the pipe. 3. Align the fitting with the end of the pipe and move the compression ring near the fitting. 4. Coat the compression ring and the fitting with pipe joint compound. 5. Connect the coupling nut to the fitting and carefully tighten.
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