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Working with copper pipe 

Working with plastic pipe

What is the difference between PVC and CPVC plastic pipe?

CPVC can be used on hot and cold lines, while PVC is for cold water only. PVC is usually used as a drainpipe.

How do I join plastic pipe?

One of the easier do-it-yourself jobs involves joining plastic water or drain lines. A few steps, carefully followed will bring success every time. Generally plastic pipe and fitting are joined with a solvent welding operation. PVC (white) and ABS (black) solvents actually soften the surfaces, which dry together forming a "welded" bond. CVPC (gray/tan) is usable in hot water applications and parts are joined by a cement (a glue) and require that a primer be applied first.
CUTTING: Cut plastic pipe to size with a fine tooth saw or plastic pipe cutter. Be sure your cut is square because part of the seal is on the end. A miter box is helpful. Remove all burrs on both the inside and outside edges of the pipe.
APPLY CEMENT/SOLVENT: Both the end of the pipe and the inside of the fitting or valve must be coated with cement. Be sure to use the correct cement for the specific type of material involved. There are different cements available, some will work with wet applications, some are faster drying etc. It's important to read the label.
JOINING: Insert the pipe into the valve or fitting as far as it will go giving a quarter turn to the pipe at the same time. This assures an even distribution of the cement onto the fitting and pipe. It's a good practice to hold the joint together and slowly count to ten. Wipe off the excess cement, leaving a small bead.
DRYING OR CURING TIME: This will depend on the type of solvent cement used. Again read the label, The longer the dry time the better.
 

What is the proper way to join galvanized pipe to copper pipe?

You should use a dielectric union. This will prevent electrolysis from occurring, which deteriorates the copper tubing.

Is 1/2" CPVC and 1/2" PVC the same size?

No. CPVC is measured by O.D., which makes its sizing similar to hard copper. PVC is measured by I.D., which makes its sizing similar to iron pipe.I am not getting enough hot water from my gas water heater.The thermostat may be set too low, otherwise the burner is probably not burning correctly. If that's the case, it's best to call a service technician.

What does O.D. and I.D. mean?

This refers to the diameter of a pipe. Some pipes are measured based on their outside diameter, or O.D. Others are measured by their interior diameter, or I.D.

What do the letters "K," "L" and "M" on copper tubing mean?

Type K is the heaviest. Type L is medium weight and used most often for water lines in homes. Type M is thinner and is used underground or for light domestic water lines if local codes allow.

Do you measure the diameter of hard copper the same as soft copper?

No, you measure hard copper with I.D. (inside diameter). You measure soft copper by its O.D. (outside diameter).

How do you measure galvanized pipe?

You measure it by the I.D. (inside diameter).

How do you measure black pipe?

Using I.D. (inside diameter).

What can I use to make sure my water pipe does not freeze?

Heat tapes have a thermostat on them so they know when to turn on and off. Simply wrap the pipe and plug them in.

Or buy stick foam pipe insulation or pipe wrap and cover your pipes.  Some stick insulation has adhesive tape on it to make installation easy.  Foam insulation also helps to keep condensation off your pipes.