There
are several types of pipes used for supplying water to homes in our area Copper,
CPVC, PEX, Kitec, Polybutylene, Poly and Galvanized.
Copper comes in three
grades, M for thin wall pipe used mainly inside, L for thicker wall pipe used
for outside water services, and K the thickest used mainly between water mains
and the water meter. Copper lasts a long time, is durable and connects well
to valves.
Copper should not be used if the water has a PH of 6.5 or less. Private well
water systems often have a PH below 6.5. In this case, a treatment system
is a good idea to make the water less acidic.
CPVC
is a slightly yellow plastic pipe used inside the home. Areas with corrosive
water benefit by the use of this piping. CPVC pipes will last a long time.
PEX
is a cross linked version of polybutylene. The modular chains are linked into
a three-dimensional network making PEX durable in a range of temperatures, pressures
and chemicals. PEX is flexible and works well for corrosive water conditions.
It can stretch to accommodate freezing water and then will return to original
size when the water thaws. Remember is it freeze resistant, but no material
is freeze-break proof.
PVC
pipe is plastic, white and used outside. It can only be used for cold water
and is usually used for water services between the meter and building or irrigation.
Poly
is a soft plastic pipe that comes in coils, used for cold water. It can crack
with age or wear through from rocks. Other weak points can be the stainless
steel clamps or galvanized couplings.
Kitec
is a multipurpose pressure pipe that unites the advantages of metal and plastic.
It is made of aluminum tube laminated to plastic. Litec is non-corroding and
resists most acids, salt solutions, alkalis, fats and oils.
Galvanized
Steel pipes corrode. You can only expect about 40 years of use from it. The
main problem with this pipe is over time water will be restricted by corrosion
and eventually the pipes fill completely. Over time you will notice an unpleasant
odor, stained clothing, and low water pressure. Bacteria builds up in galvanized
pipes as well as toxic mold.
Call
Peerless Plumbing today and enjoy all the pleasures of copper!
PHOENIX:
(602)265.5508
EAST VALLEY: (480)288.1246
WEST VALLEY: (623)444.0566
