In the ancient Greek, pipes were created using clay and the finished product were used to transport sewage and stream water. And today in the modern world, you can find different materials that are utilized to make pipes. These materials are PVC, PEX, galvanized, copper, and ABS. The pipes are used to supply cold or hot water in the plumbing fixtures, vent system, and vital drains of houses.
However, you need to understand that every type of plumbing pipe has different purposes. That is mainly why you need the expert opinion of a Los Angeles professional plumber on what kind if pipe to purchase for your home. The correct pipe maintains the right flow of water, while the wrong one can cause a backlog, and other plumbing problems.
Common types of plumbing pipes
Professional plumbers understand the need to use the best kind of pipe for the plumbing system of their client’s home. And for every pipe, there is a suitable use.
PEX Piping or Cross-Linked Polyethylene Plumbing Pipes
The polyethylene cross-linked pipe is a budget-friendly plastic pipe that is typically utilized for water supply lines. It is popularly used by plumbers because this kind of plastic tubing does not corrode or rust. And so you don’t have to worry about water contamination.
Benefits of using Polyethylene Cross Linked Pipe (PEX) For Plumbing :
- Easy to install
- Flexible, curves up to 90 degrees
- Seamless cutting
- Low maintenance
- Heat resistant
- Perfect for cold and hot water
- Can connect to copper pipes
- Indoor use only
- Plastic layer is vulnerable to UV rays
- Recycling is not possible
Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) Plastic Plumbing Pipes
A PVC pipe is commonly used by plumbers to install waste, drain, and vent pipes, or the whole sewage system. Toilet drain, Sink drain or vent stacks is where you would see PVC Pipe. It is designed to handle low pressure and temperature, and best for a drain line in toilets. However, this kind of pipe is not suitable for water supply lines that require high pressure as well as streaming hot water.
Why Should you use PVC Pipe?
- Lighter compared to galvanized steel pipes
- Does not rust, decay, or corrode
- White surface has clear diameter markings
- Great for irrigation purposes
- Easier to handle compared to copper or steel
Why It might not be the best option?
- Not suitable for hot water
- Warps with very hot water
- Degrades under UV rays
It is important to note that the PVC pipe intended for the sewer line is different from the one for a potable water line. The latter type of PVC pipe is categorized as an “NSF-PW” or “NSF-61”. With these markings, it entails that the PVC pipes conformed to the NSF/ANSI Standard 6 health requirements.
Copper pipes are traditional options for water supply lines. They remain a favorite by professional plumbers thanks to their ability to not pollute the water.
Benefits of using copper pipe in plumbing
- Corrosion resistant
- Suitable for cold and hot water
- Stays fitted firmly
- High tolerance of heat
- Recycling is possible
- Longer life
While copper pipe have longer life, it is also expensive and Thin.
Galvanized Steel Pipes
Galvanized pipes can be found in older houses In Los Angeles, but it is not always used anymore in new houses. This kind of pipe is typically applied to drain and water supply lines.
- Extremely strong
- Lead-free alternative
- Prone to corrosion and rust
Why hire a professional plumber when you need Pipe repaired, changed or installed?
It is quite normal to get tempted to replace or fix your own pipes, or even build your own plumbing system. But, if you have no background in installing pipes, it is highly recommended that you leave the task to a licensed plumber in Los Angeles.
Even the tiniest mistake in the pipe installation can cause a huge damage to your plumbing system. Leaks can happen, especially if you have purchased the wrong type of pipe.
There is absolutely nothing wrong with DIY, but when it comes to pipes, you cannot take your chances.
Many DIYers make mistakes with the types of pipes and the installation in general, such as:
- Purchased the wrong pipe
- Over tightening pipe connections
- Utilizing the wrong tape
- Sweating copper pipes in the presence of water
- Wrong tools
And so to avoid making mistakes, trust in the most reliable professional plumbers in Los Angeles. It would cost you money to hire a plumber, but at least you can sleep soundly at night knowing that your pipes are right. And with the correct pipes, your plumbing system works excellently for years.