Push fit pipe fittings are a popular type of plumbing fitting that is designed to be quick and easy to install, without the need for any special tools or skills. They work by simply pushing the pipe into the fitting, which then grips onto the pipe using a series of internal teeth or O rings, creating a watertight seal.
Push fit fittings are compatible with a wide range of different types of pipes, including plastic, copper, and PEX piping. In this article, we'll take a closer look at each of these different pipe types and explore their compatibility with push fit fittings in more detail.
One of the most common types of pipes that are used with push fit fittings is plastic pipes. There are several different types of plastic pipes that can be used with push fit fittings, including :
Polybutylene (PB) pipes : PB pipes are a type of plastic pipe that was commonly used in residential plumbing systems during the 1980s and 1990s. They are flexible, durable, and resistant to corrosion, making them an ideal choice for use in hot and cold water supply systems. PB pipes can be connected to push fit fittings using special PB inserts, which are designed to fit snugly inside the pipe and create a tight seal when pushed into the fitting.
Polyethylene (PE) pipes : PE pipes are another type of plastic pipe that is commonly used in plumbing applications. They are lightweight, flexible, and resistant to corrosion, making them ideal for use in underground water supply systems. PE pipes can be connected to push fit fittings using special PE inserts, which are designed to fit snugly inside the pipe and create a tight seal when pushed into the fitting.
Cross linked polyethylene (PEX) pipes : PEX pipes are a type of plastic pipe that is rapidly gaining popularity in residential plumbing systems. They are flexible, durable, and easy to install, making them an ideal choice for use in hot and cold water supply systems. PEX pipes can be connected to push fit fittings using special PEX inserts, which are designed to fit snugly inside the pipe and create a tight seal when pushed into the fitting.
Chlorinated polyvinyl chloride (CPVC) pipes : CPVC pipes are a type of plastic pipe that is commonly used in residential plumbing systems. They are lightweight, durable, and resistant to corrosion, making them an ideal choice for use in hot and cold water supply systems. CPVC pipes can be connected to push fit fittings using special CPVC inserts, which are designed to fit snugly inside the pipe and create a tight seal when pushed into the fitting.
Another type of pipe that is commonly used with push fit fittings is copper pipes. Copper pipes are widely used in plumbing systems because they are durable, resistant to corrosion, and have a long lifespan. Copper pipes can be connected to push fit fittings using special copper inserts, which are designed to fit snugly inside the pipe and create a tight seal when pushed into the fitting.
It is important to note, however, that copper pipes should be deburred before being connected to push fit fittings. This is because the internal teeth or O rings in the fitting can be damaged if they come into contact with the rough edges of a deburred copper pipe.
As mentioned earlier, PEX pipes are a type of plastic pipe that is rapidly gaining popularity in residential plumbing systems. PEX pipes are highly flexible and easy to install, making them an ideal choice for use in hot and cold water supply systems.
PEX pipes can be connected to push fit fittings using special PEX inserts, which are designed to fit snugly inside the pipe and create a tight seal when pushed into the fitting. It is important to note, however, that PEX pipes should be properly supported and secured before being connected to push fit fittings, as they can expand and contract significantly due to temperature changes.
In addition to plastic and copper pipes, push fit fittings can also be used with other types of pipes, including :
Galvanized steel pipes : Galvanized steel pipes are commonly used in plumbing systems, particularly for outdoor applications. They are durable and resistant to corrosion, but can be difficult to work with due to their rigidity. Galvanized steel pipes can be connected to push fit fittings using special galvanized steel inserts, which are designed to fit snugly inside the pipe and create a tight seal when pushed into the fitting.
Stainless steel pipes : Stainless steel pipes are another type of pipe that can be used with push fit fittings. They are durable and resistant to corrosion, making them an ideal choice for use in harsh environments. Stainless steel pipes can be connected to push fit fittings using special stainless steel inserts, which are designed to fit snugly inside the pipe and create a tight seal when pushed into the fitting.
Iron pipes : Iron pipes are a type of pipe that is commonly used in plumbing systems, particularly for gas and oil supply lines. They are durable and can withstand high pressure, but can be difficult to work with due to their weight and rigidity. Iron pipes can be connected to push fit fittings using special iron inserts, which are designed to fit snugly inside the pipe and create a tight seal when pushed into the fitting.
It is important to note, however, that not all types of pipes are compatible with push fit fittings. For example, PVC pipes should not be used with push fit fittings, as the internal teeth or O rings in the fitting can cause the pipe to crack or split. Additionally, push fit fittings should not be used with pipes that are damaged or have irregular shapes, as this can prevent the fitting from creating a tight seal.
In conclusion, push fit fittings are compatible with a wide range of different types of pipes, including plastic, copper, PEX, galvanized steel, stainless steel, and iron pipes. When using push fit fittings, it is important to ensure that the pipes are properly prepared and supported, and that the correct type of insert is used for the specific type of pipe being connected. By following these guidelines, push fit fittings can provide a fast and easy solution for connecting pipes in a wide range of plumbing applications.
