When installing new plumbing, it is necessary to carry out plumbing connections according to best practices.
This helps you limit potential problems in the future. To achieve this, we suggest you read this article which provides good advice on the subject.
But to better clarify our ideas, it is important to first explain the purpose of the plumbing connection and its different types.
📋 Essential to remember: Personally, I consider that **making a plumbing connection without soldering has become accessible to 95% of DIYers** with the right fittings. I have tested different techniques and automatic fittings really change the game. Two wrenches are enough for a perfectly watertight assembly in less than 10 minutes.
What is a plumbing connection?
✅ Advantages
- No soldering required
- Detachable fittings
- Easy to learn
🔻 Limitations
- Crimp fittings are irreversible
- Slightly higher cost
Sometimes we wonder how to repair a water leak in a wall. However, it is still possible to anticipate this inconvenience by equipping yourself with a suitable plumbing connection.
But what exactly does this accessory consist of? It allows you to connect 2 pipes or 2 conduits contributing to the success of the plumbing installation.
Plumbing fittings are available in many different shapes. You can choose according to the configuration of the piping.
You use a sleeve when the 2 pipes to be joined have the same diameter. On the other hand, you need a reducer when the diameter is different.
If the pipes have the same diameter and are set at an angle of 27°, 45°, and 90°, you can use an elbow. To join 3 pipes, choose a wye or a tee. The latter gets its name from its T shape. As for the wye, it resembles the letter Y.
When you plan to cap a distribution pipe, a cap is obviously useful. A cleanout plug, on the other hand, helps you access the drainage pipes at a precise point.
🗣️ My experience: Last year, I had to replace a damaged copper pipe in my kitchen. Terrified by the idea of soldering, I opted for mechanical double-cone fittings. Result: a flawless joint, no leaks after 6 months. The lesson: soldering is no longer essential for quality work.
The different types of plumbing connections
Since we have just finished with the types of plumbing fittings, let’s now discuss their manufacturing materials.
In general, each pipe has its own fitting, but some models remain mixed. They can be adapted to countless types of pipes.
The copper fitting stands out for its practicality and strength. Its role is to join copper pipes. It is suitable for sanitary installations as well as for piping intended for the heating system. The connection of these elements is done by soldering.
As for the brass fitting, it is used to join 2 pieces of different materials such as steel and copper. It is also found in the installation of faucets and the fusion of 2 tubes with a compression collar.
The PVC fitting is among the most used, due to its good watertightness. That’s not all, its installation is child’s play because it requires no soldering. Thanks to its multiple configurations, it meets all needs.
Compared to the PVC fitting, the one made of polyethylene or PE shows great resistance. It tolerates pressure better. It is mainly used for water connections in bathrooms or for garden irrigation systems.
💡 Practical tip
For a double cone fitting: apply silicone grease on the connection area before assembly, this facilitates sliding. First tighten by hand, then lock the body with a slip-joint plier and tighten the nut with a wrench.
Besides the fittings mentioned above, there is also the cross-linked polyethylene or PEX model, the multilayer, quick or crimp fitting. In all cases, make your choice according to the type of your pipe.
To go deeper, I advise you to check plumbing which also provides useful tips. And to go further, DIY plumbing offers interesting insights.
Tips for making a plumbing fitting
Due to limited budget, one often wonders if you can do plumbing yourself. The complexity of the connection generally depends on the type of connection device.
Some can be done without soldering and others require it. In any case, the following steps must be followed to achieve good results.
To start, turn off the water supply. The cold water taps as well as the hot water ones must be left open to drain the remaining water. Then disconnect all the pipes.
To proceed with their connection, equip yourself with accessories compatible with the pipes such as T fittings, elbows and clamps.
That said, apply a sealant on the pipes then put in place the connecting component. After installing the drain or the tap, check the fittings to ensure there are no leaks.
🌍 Did you know?
Modern automatic fittings operate on a system of self-locking rings that create a permanent seal guaranteeing zero leaks even after **several years of constant pressure**.
| Type of fitting | Compatible materials | Required tools | Difficulty |
|---|---|---|---|
| Double cone (olive) | Copper (small/medium) | 2 adjustable wrenches | Easy |
| Crimping | Multilayer, PEX, copper | Crimping pliers | Medium |
| Automatic/quick | All types | None | Very easy |
| Screw-on | Sanitary brass/galvanized | 2 wrenches | Easy |
| Quick flexible | Faucets | None | Very easy |
⚠️ Common mistake
Not properly deburring the pipe: internal burrs prevent proper tightening and create micro-leaks. Use a chamfering tool to remove any defects before fitting.
FAQ
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This operation is essential for the efficiency of the plumbing installation. The fitting allows pipes to be joined to ensure the watertightness of the pipes.
How to make a cheap plumbing connection?
To achieve this, it is advisable to choose a fitting that requires no soldering. The copper one is not only easy to use but also less expensive on the market.
How to make a plumbing connection alone and without a plumber?
Solderless connection does not necessarily require the intervention of a plumber. You just need some technical knowledge and you’re good to go.
