Types of Residential Pipe.
Residential plumbing systems are typically copper or plastic. Older systems may contain galvanized or other metal pipes. Plastic is most common today. For water supply, CPVC (chlorinated polyvinyl chloride) may be used. It is a rigid plastic used for hot and cold water supply lines. It can handle normal water pressure loads and compared to copper lines, CPVC is lightweight, easy to work with, doesn't corrode and may be significantly less expensive.
For Drain/Waste/Vent systems, rigid plastic PVC (polyvinyl chloride) and ABS (acrylonitrile butadiene styrene) may be used. PVC is usually white and ABS is black. Both are typically used for vents and drains.
PVC and CPVC are different components that do not fit directly together.
Galvanized pipes are typically old. These pipes may have a buildup of corrosion inside and may restrict the flow of water.
Lead pipes pose a serious health hazard and should be replaced immediately. Do not drink water if lead pipe is used anywhere in the system.
Types of Residential Pipe.
Residential plumbing systems are typically copper or plastic. Older systems may contain galvanized or other metal pipes. Plastic is most common today. For water supply, CPVC (chlorinated polyvinyl chloride) may be used. It is a rigid plastic used for hot and cold water supply lines. It can handle normal water pressure loads and compared to copper lines, CPVC is lightweight, easy to work with, doesn't corrode and may be significantly less expensive.
For Drain/Waste/Vent systems, rigid plastic PVC (polyvinyl chloride) and ABS (acrylonitrile butadiene styrene) may be used. PVC is usually white and ABS is black. Both are typically used for vents and drains.
PVC and CPVC are different components that do not fit directly together.
Galvanized pipes are typically old. These pipes may have a buildup of corrosion inside and may restrict the flow of water.
Lead pipes pose a serious health hazard and should be replaced immediately. Do not drink water if lead pipe is used anywhere in the system.
