Maya Ellison
Plastic push-fit plumbing is a quick and reliable method for DIY plumbing projects. It is a popular choice due to its ease of use, flexibility, leak-proof design, and the reduced complexity it offers in pipework. Plastic push-fit fittings, also known as Speedfit® or Quick Fit, can be used with plastic or copper pipes, providing a rigid or multi-seal connection. They are especially useful for shower installations, leak-proofing in new builds, and capping water supply pipes during renovations. Before using plastic push-fit fittings, it is important to cut the pipe to the correct length with dedicated pipe cutters and ensure the end is square. With an increasing number of manufacturers, plastic push-fit plumbing offers an efficient and convenient option for plumbing projects.
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What You'll Learn
Using the correct pipe inserts
Before inserting the pipe into the fitting, mark the pipe with a felt-tip pen or similar to indicate how far it needs to be inserted. This ensures that the pipe is pushed all the way into the fitting, as push-fit joints can easily fail if not fully inserted. It is also important to ensure that the end of the pipe that will be inserted into the fitting is square and free of any burrs or swarf, which can be removed with a file.
Once the pipe is prepared, push a pipe insert firmly into the end of the pipe. Then, insert the pipe into the fitting, ensuring it passes through the O-ring until it reaches the correct insertion depth. Marking the insertion depth on the pipe beforehand can help with this.
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Cutting the pipe to the correct length
First, ensure that you have the right tools for the job. It is essential to use the correct pipe cutter for plastic pipes, such as dedicated plastic pipe cutters. Avoid using tools like a hacksaw, as the burrs created can damage the "O" ring inside the fittings, leading to joint failure. Plastic pipe cutters will provide a cleaner cut and reduce the risk of damaging the pipe or its components.
Next, measure and mark the pipe to determine the correct length. Hold the pipe next to the fitting and use a felt-tip pen or a similar marking tool to indicate the desired length. This mark will guide you in pushing the pipe all the way into the fitting, ensuring a proper seal. Some manufacturers may provide specific depth-marking instructions for their push-fit products, so be sure to follow their guidelines.
When cutting the pipe, it is important to make a straight and square cut on the end that will be inserted into the fitting. This will ensure a proper connection and help create a reliable seal. Take your time and cut the pipe carefully to achieve the desired length and a neat finish.
After cutting the pipe to the correct length, it's time to insert a pipe insert into the end of the pipe. This step will depend on the specific type of pipe and fitting you are using. Different makes of plastic pipe have different pipe inserts, so ensure you use the correct ones provided by the manufacturer. Copper pipes, on the other hand, typically do not require an insert.
Finally, inspect the cut end of the pipe to ensure it is free of any debris or imperfections that could hinder the connection. Once you are satisfied with the cut and the pipe insert is in place, you can proceed to the next step of fitting the pipe into the corresponding fitting. Remember to follow the manufacturer's instructions and take the necessary precautions for a secure and leak-proof connection.
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Pushing the pipe into the fitting
Push-fit plumbing is an easy and quick method of joining pipes without the need for any special tools. However, it is important to pay special attention when cutting the pipe as the "O" ring inside the fittings can be damaged easily. It is best to use a dedicated pipe cutter for plastic pipes.
When it comes to pushing the pipe into the fitting, there are several steps to follow. Firstly, hold the pipe next to the fitting and mark the pipe with a pen to indicate how far it needs to be inserted. Push-fit joints will fail if the pipe is not fully inserted, so it is crucial to get this right.
Next, push the pipe firmly and fully into the fitting. Some fittings have a twist-lock mechanism, so be sure to tighten the fitting by hand after inserting the pipe. Pull on the fitting and the pipe to ensure it is locked in place correctly. With some fittings, you will feel the grip of the stainless steel grip ring inside once the pipe is fully inserted, making it impossible to pull the pipe out without first undoing the twist lock and pushing the plastic collar towards the fitting.
To make a watertight joint, it is essential that the end of the pipe that will be inserted into the fitting is cut squarely. After cutting the pipe to the correct length, push a pipe insert into the end of the pipe that will be inserted into the fitting. Pipe inserts are necessary for plastic pipes but not for copper pipes.
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Using a release tool
The release tool consists of a small plastic clip that fits over the pipe and presses against the release collar to free it. The pipe can then be removed. Some push-fit plumbing fittings can be released by unscrewing the end parts.
It is worth noting that some push-fit fittings are not demountable, and certain brands require a release tool, such as CuproFit, while others do not, like John Guest Speedfit.
When using a release tool, it is important to be gentle to avoid damaging the pipe. If you are unable to remove the fitting, you may need to use a pipe cutter or a hacksaw to cut the pipe. However, be cautious when cutting the pipe, as the O-ring inside the fitting can easily be damaged, which would cause the join to fail.
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Using Speedfit pipes
Speedfit pipes are a type of push-fit plumbing that can be used for quick and reliable DIY plumbing. They are also known as Quick Fit plumbing. While traditional plumbers may not use them, Speedfit pipes are now compliant with British Standards and are a good option for those who want to save time.
Speedfit pipes are plastic, so they are flexible, non-toxic, and have no metal or scale buildup. They are also less likely to burst in freezing conditions. However, they should not be used for fuel oil, compressed air, or gas installations.
To use Speedfit pipes, first cut your plastic pipe to the correct length with a dedicated pipe cutter. Do not use a hacksaw, as this can damage the "O" ring inside the fittings. Then, push a pipe insert into the end of the pipe that will be inserted into the fitting. The type of insert will depend on the make of the plastic pipe. For example, copper pipes do not require an insert. Mark the pipe with a felt-tip pen to know how far to insert it into the fitting. Push the pipe firmly and fully into the fitting, and then tighten the fitting by hand if it has a twist lock mechanism.
Speedfit pipes also have a range of other fittings available, including isolating valves, flexible couplings, stop ends, and stop taps. These can be used to connect two pipe ends, repair a burst pipe, or stop the flow of water.
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Frequently asked questions
Plastic push-fit plumbing is quick and easy to install, leak-proof, affordable, and reduces the complexity of pipework. It is also flexible, reducing the likelihood of pipes bursting in freezing conditions.
No special tools are required to join pipes with push-fit plumbing. However, you will need to use the correct pipe cutter, such as a pipe slice for copper pipe and dedicated plastic pipe cutters for plastic pipe.
Plastic push-fit plumbing can be used with copper, CPVC, PEX, or plastic pipes. It cannot be used with chrome-plated pipes as the grip rings are not strong enough to grip the chrome.
