The Basics

  • How to Use a PVC Pipe Cutter Tool

    PVC Pipe Cutting Tool

    If you're a homeowner or new plumber and you're looking for the right tools to cut PVC pipe, look no further than a PVC pipe cutter. PVC pipe cutters are specifically made to cut PVC, CPVC & various types of plastic pipe. However, while they seem straightforward and easy to use, there's a trick to using certain types of PVC pipe cutters.

    There will be different instructions for each pipe cutter, depending on the type of cutter you choose. In general, however, the key is to mark the spot on the pipe where you want to make your cut. Next, tighten the jaws of the cutter around the pipe so that the cutter blade is on your mark. Once you're ready, either squeeze or rotate the pipe cutter until the blade slices through your pipe.

    If you're curious and want to know more about the different types of pipe cutters and how to use them, you've come to the right place.
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  • Can You Use PVC Fittings with CPVC Pipe?

    PVC and CPVC

    If you're a plumber or enjoy DIY projects, it's essential to understand the different products and materials you're working with. For instance, it's common with plumbing projects to run into situations where you must combine different materials. One of these most frequent occurrences is when you need to use PVC fittings with CPVC pipe. However, this begs the question of whether you can combine these two materials.

    Although PVC and CPVC are two different types of pipe, they're similar enough that for non-pressure applications, PVC fittings are compatible with CPVC pipe. However, it's essential to use the correct type of glue or cement and to use pipe and fittings that are compatible in size. Otherwise, you risk damaging your pipe and fittings, and the two materials won't be compatible.
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  • How to Properly Pressure Test PVC Pipe

    Leaky PVC Pipe

    If you're a novice plumber who has just completed their first plumbing project, you probably think your job is done. You've installed all the vents, drains, and water lines, and everything looks great! However, the job isn't finished until you perform a pressure test on your piping to ensure there are no leaks.

    Pressure tests for PVC piping systems are generally mandatory to pass a plumbing inspection. They're the only way to ensure your pipes won't leak or burst when full of water. Pressure testing requirements vary by a multitude of factors, such as state, county, and city, so it’s essential you ensure you’re up to code wherever your project is located.

    While pressure testing your plumbing system sounds simple, it's a somewhat complicated procedure, especially for newbies. However, regardless of how inconvenient or difficult it is, pressure testing your PVC pipes is essential to have peace of mind and avoid future plumbing problems.
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  • Can You Use Plumbing PVC For Electrical Conduit?

    Electrical Conduit

    If you're a homeowner with a DIY knack, it's common to run into situations where you're tempted to use products for reasons outside their intended purpose. For instance, let's say you need a piece of electrical conduit and you have an old PVC pipe lying around. Can you use it as an electrical conduit?

    While PVC pipe and traditional electrical conduit look and feel similar, you should never use plumbing PVC for electrical conduit. Plumbing PVC is designed to work within plumbing systems for drains, sewers, and vents, whereas electrical conduit PVC is designed for electrical use. You shouldn't use them interchangeably in any capacity.

    If you're considering using plumbing PVC for electrical conduit but want to know if it's safe, you've come to the right place. This article will explore the similarities and differences between the two types of PVC pipe and explain why they aren't interchangeable. We'll also examine the potential consequences of using plumbing PVC for electrical conduits.
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  • How to Loosen Threaded PVC Fittings and Joints

    Threaded PVC Fittings

    Whether you are working on a DIY craft project or you need to clear a clog in your drain line, you may one day find yourself staring at PVC pipes and fittings, wondering how to separate them. If your threaded PVC pipes and fittings were not glued together with solvent cement, or if the solvent cement has not yet cured, you may be able to separate your PVC fairly easily. Unfortunately, once solvent cement has been applied and allowed to cure, separating your threaded PVC pipes and fittings can be more challenging, though not impossible. Before you break out the hacksaw, though, there are some alternatives that may do the trick.
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  • How to Cement PVC Pipe Underwater

    Underwater View of Swimming Pool

    PVC pipe is durable and water-resistant, making it the perfect material for applications where the pipe will need to be submerged. But what happens when you need to repair piping or fitting underwater? While repairing and solvent cementing dry PVC is often easier, it is possible to repair PVC underwater. With the right water-safe materials, your pond fountain, pool pump, or other submerged structure will be ready to go in no time.
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  • How to Clean the Inside of a PVC Pipe

    Drain Cleaning With Snake

    If you have a clogged PVC pipe or want to prevent your pipes from clogging, it may be time to clean the inside of your pipes. Fortunately, with a plunger or snake and some dish soap or enzyme / bacterial drain cleaner, you can easily clean most PVC type piping on your own.
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  • Is Bleach Safe to Use on PVC Piping?

    Pouring Bleach

    Bleach is a common cleaner found in most homes, but is it safe to use in homes with PVC piping? In short, yes. You can safely use bleach to clean and disinfect your PVC pipes, as long as you dilute it first and avoid mixing it with other chemicals.
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  • How to Glue PVC Pipe / Fittings

    Glueing PVC Pipe and Fitting

    Are you working on a project involving PVC and wondering how to glue your pipes and fittings together? We’ll discuss selecting the proper glue, steps in preparing your piping or fittings, steps to glue the pvc materials together, and additional tips to make the process easy!
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  • Using Flexible PVC: A Brief Guide

    Room of PVC Pipes

    What is flexible PVC? Flexible PVC is flexible tubing manufactured with the addition of plasticizers so that a level of malleability is achieved. It is made to match the same size of the PVC Pipe you are more familiar with, rigid schedule 40 PVC.
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