Push fit pipe fittings are becoming increasingly popular in both commercial and residential plumbing applications due to their ease of installation and versatility. These types of fittings have been designed to quickly and efficiently connect various types of pipes and tubing together without the need for soldering or other traditional joining methods. One question that often arises is whether push fit pipe fittings are suitable for use with drinking water. In this article, we will explore this topic in detail and provide a comprehensive answer.
Push Fit Pipe Fittings Explained
Push fit pipe fittings, also known as push to connect fittings or quick connect fittings, are designed to connect pipes or tubing together without the need for any special tools or skills. The fittings consist of three main components : the body, the locking ring, and the sealing element.
The body of the fitting is typically made of brass or a similar material and is designed to accept the tubing or pipe. The locking ring, often referred to as a collet, is made of stainless steel and is responsible for holding the tubing or pipe securely in place. The sealing element is typically made of rubber or a similar material and is responsible for creating a watertight seal between the fitting and the tubing or pipe.
Push fit pipe fittings are available in a variety of sizes and configurations to suit different types of piping systems. Some of the most common types of push fit fittings include :
Benefits of Push Fit Pipe Fittings
Push fit pipe fittings offer several advantages over traditional joining methods. These include :
Are Push Fit Pipe Fittings Safe for Drinking Water?
The short answer is yes, push fit pipe fittings are safe for use with drinking water. However, there are some important considerations to keep in mind to ensure that the fittings are used correctly and safely.
Material Composition
The material composition of push fit pipe fittings is an important factor to consider when using them in drinking water applications. The body of the fitting is typically made of brass, which is a safe and reliable material for use with potable water. However, it is important to ensure that the brass used in the fitting is lead free, as lead can leach into the water and cause health problems.
The sealing element of the fitting is typically made of rubber or a similar material that is safe for use with potable water. However, it is important to ensure that the material is certified for use in drinking water applications and that it is not made from materials that could contaminate the water or affect its taste.
Installation
The installation of push fit pipe fittings is critical to their safe use in drinking water applications. The fittings must be installed correctly, following the manufacturer's instructions, to ensure a secure and leak free connection. This includes ensuring that the tubing or pipe is cut to the correct length and that any burrs or rough edges are removed.
It is also important to ensure that the tubing or pipe is fully inserted into the fitting and that the locking ring is securely in place. Failure to do so can result in leaks or other issues that could compromise the safety of the drinking water.
Maintenance
Proper maintenance is essential to ensure the continued safe use of push fit pipe fittings
in drinking water applications. Regular inspection of the fittings and pipes is important to identify any signs of wear, damage, or corrosion that could compromise the safety of the drinking water. Any damaged or worn fittings should be replaced immediately.
It is also important to follow the manufacturer's recommendations for cleaning and sanitizing the fittings and pipes to prevent the growth of bacteria or other harmful organisms. This is especially important in systems that are not used frequently, such as vacation homes or seasonal residences.
Certification and Approval
When selecting push fit pipe fittings for use in drinking water applications, it is important to ensure that they are certified and approved for this purpose. In the United States, push fit pipe fittings that are intended for use in potable water systems must comply with the requirements of NSF/ANSI Standard 61, which sets limits for the amount of impurities that can leach into the water from plumbing materials and components.
NSF International is a third party testing and certification organization that verifies that products meet the requirements of NSF/ANSI Standard 61. Products that have been certified by NSF International are labeled with the NSF certification mark, which indicates that they have been independently tested and verified to meet the standards for safe use with drinking water.
It is important to look for the NSF certification mark when selecting push fit pipe fittings for use in drinking water applications. This ensures that the fittings have been tested and verified to be safe for use with potable water.
Conclusion
In conclusion, push fit pipe fittings are a safe and reliable option for use in drinking water applications. However, it is important to ensure that the fittings are made from safe and reliable materials, such as lead free brass, and that they are certified for use with potable water.
Proper installation, maintenance, and cleaning are also critical to ensure the continued safe use of push fit pipe fittings in drinking water applications. By following these guidelines and selecting fittings that are certified and approved for use with potable water, homeowners and contractors can enjoy the benefits of these versatile and easy to use fittings while ensuring the safety and quality of their drinking water.
