Using PVC for Plumbing Applications



white pvc piping in a plumbing system

One of the greatest moments in human history was the advent of indoor plumbing. Since the 1840s indoor plumbing has been taking the world by storm and many different materials have been used to provide plumbing lines. In recent years, PVC piping has been gaining popularity over copper tubing as a top choice for indoor plumbing. PVC is durable, inexpensive, and easy to install, which cements its place as one of the best choices for plumbing.

Advantages to Using PVC In Plumbing

PVC piping has been around since about 1935 and started to be used in drain-waste-vent piping during the reconstruction following World War II. Since then it has only gained in popularity and has become a top choice in plumbing around the world. And, while we may be a little biased, it’s easy to see why this is the case.

PVC is one of the most cost-effective materials on the market today. Not only that but is lightweight, durable, and easy to install. PVC pipes can resist temperatures up to 140° and can withstand pressures up to 160psi. Overall, it is a very resilient material. It’s abrasion-resistant, chemical resistant, and can withstand many different weather conditions. All of these factors combine to make PVC a long-lasting material that has the ability to be used for about 100 years. Plus, these infrequent replacements help to reduce environmental impact.

CPVC and CPVC CTS in Residential Plumbing

Like we said, we’re a little biased to PVC, but that doesn’t mean we can’t recognize other amazing products when we see them – namely CPVC and CPVC CTS. Both products are similar to PVC, but they hold some distinct advantages.

CPVC is PVC that has been put through a chlorination process (which is where the extra C comes from). CPVC has a temperature rating of 200°F, making it a top choice for hot water applications. Just like PVC piping, CPVC is easy to install, durable, and requires little to no maintenance.

Both PVC and CPVC use the same sizing chart, which isn’t compatible with copper tubing. Copper tubing for most of the 20th and early 21st century was the go-to for plumbing lines. Because of the different sizing styles, you cannot use PVC or CPVC in a copper tubing line, which is where CPVC CTS comes in. CPVC CTS is CPVC in Copper Tube Size. Produced just like CPVC, these pipes can be used with copper pipes and fittings.

Why You Should Use PVC for Plumbing

Plumbing is a vital part of any home or business, and it can also be costly. Save yourself the hassle of expensive repairs and the upfront cost of metal piping by using PVC pipes. With its resistance to high heat, pressure, and chemicals, its an investment that will literally last a lifetime.

PVC Pipe Used for Plumbing

•    Schedule 40 PVC Pipe
•    CTS CPVC Pipe
•    Schedule 80 PVC Pipe
•    Schedule 80 CPVC Pipe
•    Flexible PVC Pipe

PVC Fittings Used for Plumbing

•    Schedule 40 PVC Fittings
•    CTS CPVC Fittings
•    Schedule 80 PVC Fittings
•    Schedule 80 CPVC Fittings
•    DWV Fittings